What should I do if the car is not transferred to the owner?
In the past 10 days, the discussion on the issue of vehicle transfer has been very popular across the Internet. Many car owners and buyers get into trouble because they don’t understand the transfer process or encounter disputes. This article will provide you with structured data and practical suggestions from the perspectives of legal risks, solutions, common problems, etc.
1. Legal risks of not owning the vehicle

According to the "Motor Vehicle Registration Regulations", transfer procedures must be completed after the vehicle is purchased or sold. If the transfer is not completed in time, you may face the following risks:
| Risk type | specific impact |
|---|---|
| Original owner's responsibility | When a vehicle is involved in an accident or traffic violation, the original owner may be jointly and severally liable. |
| New car owner rights | Unable to handle insurance claims, annual inspections and other services, affecting the normal use of the vehicle |
| economic dispute | Difficulty defending rights when loan disputes or mortgage issues arise |
2. Top 5 popular consultation questions in the past 10 days
| Ranking | question | search volume |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | What should I do if the buyer doesn’t take possession of the car after selling it? | 156,000 |
| 2 | What materials are needed for vehicle transfer? | 123,000 |
| 3 | Is the agreement valid if it is not written? | 98,000 |
| 4 | How to force vehicle transfer | 74,000 |
| 5 | Vehicle transfer process in another place | 62,000 |
3. Solutions for different situations
For common situations where vehicles are not transferred to the owner, we have compiled the following solutions:
| scene | Solutions | Things to note |
|---|---|---|
| Buyer delays transfer | 1. Send a written reminder letter 2. Apply to the vehicle management office to lock the vehicle 3. Compulsory transfer through litigation | Keep transaction documents and communication records |
| Original owner lost contact | 1. Newspaper statement 2. Apply separately with a notarized certificate 3. Apply to the court to be declared missing | Complete proof of purchase and sale is required |
| loan outstanding | 1. Negotiate early loan repayment 2. Go through the mortgage remortgage procedures 3. Secure transactions through third parties | The bank is required to issue a certificate of approval for the transfer |
4. List of necessary materials for vehicle transfer
According to the latest requirements of local vehicle management offices (updated in 2023), you need to prepare the following materials for transfer:
| Material type | Specific requirements |
|---|---|
| Proof of identity | Original ID cards of the buyer and seller (the company needs a business license) |
| vehicle documents | Motor vehicle registration certificate, driving license, vehicle purchase invoice |
| tax certificate | Tax payment certificate, compulsory traffic insurance policy (within validity period) |
| Other materials | Second-hand car transaction contract, vehicle inspection form |
5. Special reminder
1.Agreement validity:A non-transfer agreement signed privately is not protected by law and cannot exempt the original car owner from liability.
2.Time limit:If the vehicle is not transferred for more than 30 days after the transaction, late fees will be charged in some cities.
3.Latest policy:Starting from 2023, electronic transfers will be implemented nationwide, and you can make an appointment on the "Traffic Management 12123" APP first.
4.Fee reference:The transfer fee for an ordinary small car is usually between 200-800 yuan, depending on the displacement and region.
If you encounter a complicated situation, it is recommended to consult a professional lawyer in time or call the vehicle administration service hotline 12123 for help. Vehicle transfer is a matter of great importance, and formal procedures must be completed in a timely manner after the transaction is completed to avoid unnecessary legal disputes and economic losses in the future.
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