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I acquired an abandoned boat years ago. Obviously, no title came with it. Before I dropped a penny into restoring it, I needed a title/registration card in my hand. I live in New Jersey and was able to get a title which allowed me to register it. It was not an easy process at all. The only reason I went through the process was because it was a classic speedboat that was worth the hassle. Would I have done it for a $600.00 Geo? He'll no.
Is it possible to get a title? Yes.
Is it worth the hassle for a $600.00 car (lol in itself)? Nope.
As I said, it's definately a p.i.t.a. that most people probably wouldn't be able to figure out.
Location: We_tside PNW (Columbia Gorge) / CO / SA TX / Thailand
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VIN is marked in at least 3 places on the car. You will have to have at least ONE of them validated (by a state vehicle inspection) if you ever want to legally register. (AFAIK)
I buy LOTS of cars and bikes without titles, but NEVER without considering the risk... For parts you are pretty good EXCEPT if you want to take it for steel salvage (They will require a title or release from registered owner). You need to cut it in itsybitsy pieces that the scrapper won't recognize as car. (not tough with a Metro, but not worth the time / trouble for minimal steel!)
I buy lots of cars from wrecking auctions (~$35 - $100). I get a mechanic's lien that allows me to claim title after jumping through some hoops. ~$75 and a VIN inspection.
I have titled 3 cars and 6 motorcycle this yr that did not have titles. BUT... they were all KEEPERS, not like a Geo Metro.
And a car that you have to use a screwdriver to start the car? Can that be fixed so that an actual key would start the car and how much would that cost?
I am overly cautious. When I look for a restoration project or classic that does not have a current registration, the first question I ask is 'Do you have a Florida title with your name on it and does the VIN on the title match the VIN plate on the car.' If they don't have a title or do with another name on it, I walk away.
Yeah, NO ONE can be that dumb. I think some 12 year old has too much time on his hands.
Don
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