Ensuring your car has a lien-free title is essential when considering a car title pawn. A vehicle with an existing lien can be a deal-breaker with direct lenders. In this article, we'll guide you on how to check if a car has a lien for free and provide insights into the process.

What is a Lien on a Car?

A lien is a security interest placed against an asset so that creditors can collect the asset in the event of nonpayment. To be more specific, the lienholder has a legal claim of the property until the debt owed is paid.

Who Holds a Lien on a Car?

When these liens are placed on your car, there must be an associated legal record of the lien placement. The bottom line is that if you haven’t done anything that incurs debt, then it’s extremely unlikely that a lien has been placed on your car without your knowledge unless the prior seller had a lien that was unsatisfied when the lien was transferred to you.

How to Check if a Car Has a Lien

Here’s how you can check if your car has a lien for free:

1. Examine the Title Document

• Look at your car's title document. Any existing liens will be listed here. If there is no lienholder listed, your car's title is likely lien-free.

1. Perform a VIN Search:

Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) can help you check for liens. Find your VIN in these locations:

• On the driver’s side dashboard (visible through the windshield)
• Under the hood by the engine
• Under the spare tire
• On the door jamb on the driver’s side

Use your VIN to search for lien information online via services like CarFax or at your local motor vehicle department.

Removing A Lien

If you discover a lien on your car, your first step should be to satisfy the debt. The lien is on there as a result of an unpaid debt, which means you can’t apply for a car title loan until the lien is satisfied.

Once done, the lienholder should issue a lien release form that indicates that you have paid the debt in full. For electronic liens, contact the lienholder to have them release them. For paper liens, you will need to have the title mailed to you with the lien release document.

How To Get A Title Pawn With A Lien-Free Title

Now that you understand how to get a lien-free car title, you’re all set to secure a car title pawn. To start, make sure you have these items:

• Driver’s license or state-issued ID
• Lien-free car title
• Your car itself for a brief inspection

With these items ready to go, you can move on to the loan request process. First, you’ll have to fill out the online form provided by Georgia Auto Pawn, Inc. Doing so will immediately send your information to a store you choose so that you can speak to an experienced loan representative.

Once the form is done, you’ll get a call soon after from a loan representative to confirm the information provided, as well as your requirements. During the call, feel free to ask any questions you may have. You’ll also be able to schedule a meeting with the representative at a location convenient to you, so pick somewhere that works best!

At the meeting, the representative will check your items (ID, clear car title, condition of vehicle) to make sure everything is above board. The amount you qualify for can be up to $15,000, but that will largely depend on the condition of your vehicle and the inspection.

Once the loan associate has gone over your items, you’ll know whether you’re approved for the pawn. If you are approved, you can get the money you need as soon as the same day or on the following business day.

When considering a title loan, be sure to note, that title loans should only be used in emergency situations, not for frivolous spending or purchases that can otherwise be put off until you have the necessary means saved up.

Submit Your Inquiry Today!

A lien-free car title is paramount if you want a car title loan, but thankfully, checking is super easy. Just review your physical document to see if a lienholder is listed. If you suspect you might have an electronic lien, perform a search of your VIN through a dealer, or a private company, or visit the Department of Motor Vehicles. By doing so, you can see if any liens, either past or present, on your car.

Once you’ve confirmed your car’s lien-free title, you’re all set to apply for a car title pawn with Georgia Auto Pawn, Inc. today!

If you're facing a financial emergency and need urgent help, our loan representatives are waiting to assist you now!

Note: The content provided in this article is only for informational purposes, and you should contact your financial advisor about your specific financial situation.