Selling A Car with Unpaid Tolls | Everything You Need to Know

Let’s face it, life happens. We juggle a million things, and sometimes, those pesky bills slip through the cracks. Maybe you forgot about an unexpected toll road you zipped through on a road trip, or perhaps you inherited a car with some surprise baggage in the form of unpaid tolls. Whatever the reason, you’re now staring down the barrel of selling your car, but an unpaid toll bill is throwing a wrench into your plans.

Fear not! Selling a car with unpaid tolls is absolutely possible, but it does require some extra legwork. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to navigate this situation smoothly and get your car sold without unnecessary stress.

Step 1: Confront the Bill (Ugh, I Know)

 

The first step is to acknowledge the elephant in the room (or, should we say, the unpaid bill in your mailbox). Contact the tolling authority that issued the bill. Most tolling authorities have websites where you can easily access your account information and payment options. You can also call their customer service number to speak with a representative.

Here are some key questions to ask:

• What is the total amount due, including any late fees or penalties?
• Do they offer any payment plans to help you settle the bill?
• How quickly does the bill need to be paid before it causes further complications?

Step 2: Settlement Options (Let’s Get This Paid Off!)

Once you have a clear understanding of the amount due and the timeline for payment, explore your settlement options. Most tolling authorities accept various payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and electronic checks.

Pro Tip: If you’re facing a significant financial burden, inquire about payment plans. Many tolling authorities offer options to spread out the cost over several months, making it more manageable.

Step 3: Ownership Transfer and Title Issues (Can I Still Sell My Car?)

Here’s the crux of the matter: can you sell your car with unpaid tolls? The answer depends on the specific laws in your state. In some states, unpaid tolls can create a lien on your vehicle’s title, essentially preventing you from legally transferring ownership to a buyer until the debt is settled.

Here’s what you need to do:

• Research the laws in your state regarding unpaid tolls and vehicle titles. A quick Google search with your state name and “unpaid tolls + title transfer” should provide you with the relevant information.
• Contact your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for clarification. They can provide definitive guidance on how unpaid tolls might affect your ability to sell your car.

Step 4: Transparency is Key When Selling (Be Upfront with Potential Buyers)

 

Once you’ve addressed the unpaid toll bill (or at least have a clear plan for settlement), it’s time to be upfront and transparent with potential buyers. Here’s how to approach the situation:

• Disclose the unpaid tolls upfront in your car ad. Mention the amount owed and the steps you’re taking to resolve it (e.g., payment plan established).
• Be prepared to answer questions from potential buyers. Be honest and transparent about the situation.
• Consider offering an incentive to offset the buyer’s inconvenience. This could be a slight reduction in your asking price or offering to cover a portion of the outstanding toll bill upon successful sale.

By being upfront about the situation, you’ll build trust with potential buyers and demonstrate your willingness to address the issue responsibly.

Now that you’ve addressed the unpaid tolls, it’s time to navigate the car selling process.

Understanding Title Transfer and Unpaid Tolls

The process of transferring a vehicle’s title can be impacted by unpaid tolls. In some states, unpaid tolls can create a lien on your vehicle’s title, essentially preventing you from legally transferring ownership to a buyer until the debt is settled.

• Contact your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for clarification. They can provide definitive guidance on how unpaid tolls might affect your ability to sell your car and the specific procedures involved in transferring the title.
• Inquire about the possibility of a lien release. Once you’ve settled the unpaid tolls, you may need to obtain a lien release from the tolling authority. This document confirms that all outstanding tolls have been paid and that there are no further financial obligations associated with the vehicle.

Finding the Right Buyer: Navigating the Sales Process

 

Selling a car with a history of unpaid tolls may require a slightly different approach than selling a vehicle with a clean title. Be upfront and transparent with potential buyers throughout the entire selling process. Disclose the unpaid tolls upfront in your car advertisement. Clearly state the amount owed and the steps you’re taking to resolve the issue, such as any payment plans that have been established.

This demonstrates your honesty and willingness to address the situation responsibly. Be prepared to answer questions from potential buyers openly and honestly. Address their concerns regarding the unpaid tolls and how they may impact the vehicle’s registration and ownership transfer. Be patient and understanding with potential buyers’ questions and concerns.

Consider offering an incentive to offset the buyer’s inconvenience. This could be a slight reduction in your asking price or offering to cover a portion of the outstanding toll bill upon successful sale. This can demonstrate your willingness to cooperate and make the transaction more appealing to potential buyers.

Alternative Selling Options

If you’re finding it challenging to find a buyer for your car due to the unpaid tolls, consider alternative options:

• Consignment Sales: Consignment lots may be more willing to accept vehicles with minor issues like unpaid tolls.
• Cash for Cars Services: Services like Cash for Cars Calgary  by Alberta Cash for Cars can offer a quick and convenient solution. We buy cars in any condition, including those with outstanding fees, and we handle all the paperwork for you.

Remember: Selling a car with unpaid tolls requires careful planning and a transparent approach. By addressing the issue proactively and communicating openly with potential buyers, you can increase your chances of a successful sale.

Conclusion

Selling a car with unpaid tolls can certainly present a challenge, but with careful planning and a transparent approach, it’s entirely possible. By understanding the implications of unpaid tolls on the vehicle title and by communicating openly with potential buyers, you can navigate this situation successfully.

Remember, honesty and transparency are key. Disclose the unpaid tolls upfront in your car advertisement and be prepared to answer any questions from potential buyers openly and honestly.

If you decide that selling your car privately isn’t the most feasible option, consider alternative solutions.