How Can I Check If There Is Still a Lien on My Car in New York?

A vehicle title lists a lienholder when an auto loan provider has a financial interest in a vehicle. New York does not send new titles once a borrower satisfies a lien, nor will it send a lien releases. The only way to remove a lien from a title is to submit a lien release to a motor vehicle office, which you can obtain from the listed lienholder. Since New York is one of the few states that allow title transfers when a lien exists, make sure the car's previous owner supplies you with a lien release if you're purchasing a car.

Instructions

1

Go to the New York State Department of Motor Vehicle's website. Click on "Online Transactions."

2

Scroll down until you reach the "Title Transactions" section. Click on "Title Certificate or Lien Status."

3

Locate your vehicle identification number (VIN) on your title, insurance card or registration. Click on "Begin Title Status Check."

4

Input the VIN, year and make of the vehicle. Click "Continue." If a lien still exists on the vehicle, you'll see the lienholder's name and the date it was first reported.