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What steps should I take if I bought a trailer from a dealership and now they are not responsive?
Even if the dealership claims they sold the "wrong" trailer, the buyer may still have legal rights to keep the trailer if the sale was properly completed and the paperwork matches the vehicle identification number (VIN).
Trailers often have more ambiguous title history compared to vehicles, so buyers may need to go through additional steps to obtain a proper title, such as contacting the previous owner and the DMV.
Having a bill of sale can serve as temporary registration until the actual trailer title and plates are received, but it's ideal to obtain the title at the time of purchase if possible.
Operating an untitled or unregistered trailer is generally illegal and can result in fines or citations, so it's important to resolve the title issue promptly.
The process for registering a trailer typically involves providing identification, submitting the bill of sale, and paying any required fees at the DMV or directly to the dealer.
In some cases, the buyer may need to go through a process to "title" the trailer in their name, even if the dealership claims it was sold in error.
Trailer sales do not always have the same robust paperwork and title transfer process as car sales, so buyers need to be extra diligent in ensuring all documentation is in order.
If the dealership is unresponsive, the buyer may need to escalate the issue by contacting state consumer protection agencies or seeking legal counsel.
Buyers should always insist on receiving the physical trailer title at the time of purchase, rather than relying on promises of mailing it later.
In the absence of a clear title, the buyer may need to provide additional proof of ownership, such as a bill of sale, manufacturer's statement of origin, or receipts for personal property taxes paid.
Some states have specific laws or procedures for registering and titling trailers, so the buyer should research the requirements in their jurisdiction.
If the dealership claims the trailer was sold in error, the buyer may have grounds to negotiate or seek compensation, depending on the circumstances and applicable laws.
Buyers should thoroughly inspect the trailer and ensure all components are in working order before completing the purchase, as issues with the trailer itself could also complicate the ownership transfer.
In some cases, the dealership may have financial or lender obligations that could impact the buyer's ability to retain the trailer, even if the initial sale was properly executed.
Maintaining detailed records, including photos and documentation of the purchase, can be crucial if the buyer needs to defend their ownership of the trailer.
Buyers should be cautious of any dealership that is evasive or unresponsive, as this could be a sign of larger issues or a potential attempt to recover the trailer improperly.
If the trailer was purchased as part of a larger RV or camper package, the buyer may need to work with the dealership to ensure the entire unit is properly registered and titled.
In some states, trailer owners may need to obtain a separate license plate or registration for the trailer, in addition to the vehicle that will be towing it.
Buyers should be aware of any local or state laws regarding trailer weight, size, and safety requirements, as these can impact the legal operation and registration of the trailer.
If the dealership insists on taking back the trailer, the buyer may have grounds to seek legal advice or file a complaint with consumer protection authorities, depending on the specific circumstances.
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