Make sure the car you are buying is not still tied to someone else loan. A lien check protects you from inheriting a debt.
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A lien is a lender legal claim on a vehicle until a loan is paid off. If you buy a car with an open lien, the lender can still have rights to it — even after you pay the seller. A lien check flags outstanding claims so you can require they be cleared before money changes hands.
Type the VIN or a U.S. license plate and state.
Confirm you have the right car in the free preview.
Unlock the report and check for any outstanding lien before you pay.
If a lien is open, the lender may retain rights to the car even after you buy it. Always confirm any lien is released before completing the sale.
Ask the seller for a lien-release document from the lender, or have the payoff handled at the sale so the title transfers free and clear.
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Check a VIN