How to title a car thats complicated!

[Moparmama]

I have a car that has been on my property for many years. I do not have the title and it was never titled to me. The car was bought by my Ex and never titled to him, he has died. I am in Texas. I would like to sell it as its a pretty cool Mopar. What can I do? I went to the DMV and they said I would have to do a bond and the car is valued at 20-30k! Because they have to go by online prices and those are the restored Mopars. That is insane $$. I am moving to New Mexico but would like to not have to haul it there.
Can I do an abandoned car title? lien? Can I sell it after?
I don't know any insurance adjusters who can come and give me a quote??
Someone mentioned a Sheriff can come verify it's not stolen and on my property?
They said if I do a salvage title, it can only be sold for metal?
Please help. I am so lost.

 

[EV2RTSE]

IMO try to get title as an abandoned vehicle if possible. Found this for Texas-
Bonded Title vs Abandoned Title: Which One Do You Need?

 

[rklein71]

Sell with bill of sale only and let the buyer work out the title?

 

[Cuda_mark]

I asked Microsoft CoPilot AI. Answer:

In Texas, you can potentially use the abandoned vehicle process to gain legal authority over a vehicle that has been left on your property, but there are specific conditions and steps involved. Here's a breakdown of your options and what you might consider:

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Abandoned Vehicle Title Process in Texas​

According to the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV)

1
:

1. Eligibility:
   • The vehicle must have been left on your private property without consent for more than 48 hours.
   • You do not need to be the titled owner, but you must be in possession of the vehicle.
2. Certificate of Authority (COA):
   • You can apply for a Certificate of Authority to dispose of the vehicle.
   • This is typically used to crush or dismantle the vehicle, but it may help establish your legal right to the vehicle in some cases.
3. Notification Process:
   • TxDMV will attempt to notify the last known owner and lienholders.
   • If no one claims the vehicle within 20 days, you may be issued the COA on the 21st day.
4. Limitations:
   • This process is not designed for resale of valuable vehicles like your Mopar.
   • It’s more for disposal or demolition, so it may not help if you want to sell the car as a collectible.

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Bonded Title Option​

This is what the DMV likely suggested:

• You apply for a bonded title, which requires:
  • A vehicle appraisal (often based on high market values).
  • Purchasing a surety bond for 1.5x the appraised value.
• This can be expensive, especially for classic cars like yours.

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Alternative Options​

1. Court Order Title:
   • You can petition a Justice of the Peace or county court for a court order declaring you the owner.
   • This is often used when the original owner is deceased and no title exists.
   • You’ll need to show evidence (e.g., the car was gifted to you, has been in your possession, etc.).
2. Sell to a Classic Car Dealer or Restorer:
   • Some dealers are familiar with these title issues and may be willing to buy the car as-is and handle the title work themselves.
3. New Mexico Option:
   • New Mexico may have different title laws that are more favorable.
   • If you're moving soon, it might be worth checking if you can title it there more easily.

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Would you like help:

• Finding a local attorney or title service in Texas who specializes in classic cars?
• Exploring New Mexico’s title laws to see if it’s easier to title the car there?
• Drafting a statement of facts or documentation to support a court petition?

 

[heminut]

You can get a bonded title in New Mexico and the process isn't difficult. You will need to have the car inspected and purchase a surety bond, which is $100-$150. You also have to be a resident of New Mexico.

I'm sure the surety bonds for a Texas title would run about the same though. You do not have to pay the amount the car is bonded for.

 

[ceedog]

Did your husband get a title with the car?

 

[Xcudame]

If Texas doesn't work out, it's definitely work hauling to New Mexico and getting a title there! Texas is big, but New Mexico is right next door. Out of curiosity, what is the car?

 

[Mopar Nut]

@Moparmama put some pictures.