Experts strongly advise paying a private seller directly and hoping they pay off the loan later. Instead, use one of these safer approaches: How to Buy a Car With a Lien - Experian
Services like Carfax or AutoCheck can provide detailed lien history alongside maintenance and damage records. Safe Transaction Methods buying a car with a lien
Use the VIN to search your state's Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) records or the National Motor Vehicle Title Information System (NMVTIS) to identify the lienholder. Experts strongly advise paying a private seller directly
Before exchanging any money, you must confirm the status of the lien: buying a car with a lien