Is it safe to buy a car with a bonded title
Buying a car with a bonded title can be safe, but you should understand what a bonded title means and carefully verify the vehicle before you purchase it.
A bonded title does not automatically mean that a vehicle is stolen, damaged, unsafe, or a bad investment. In Texas, a bonded title may be issued when a person cannot provide the normal ownership documents required to establish ownership of a vehicle.
However, if you are considering buying a car with a bonded title, you should take additional steps to verify the vehicle's ownership, title history, VIN, lien status, and condition before giving the seller your money.
If you are in Houston or anywhere in Texas and have questions about a bonded title, Houston Bonded Title & Surety Company can assist you with the bonded-title and titling process.
Call 281-790-2933 or visit us at 2855 Mangum Rd, Suite 204, Houston, TX 77092.
What Is a Bonded Title?
A bonded title, sometimes called a bonded vehicle title or title surety bond title, is a Texas title issued through a special process when the owner cannot provide the documentation normally required to establish ownership.
For example, someone may purchase a vehicle from a private seller and never receive the original title. The owner may have lost the title, received incomplete ownership paperwork, or encountered another problem that prevents a standard title transfer.
In eligible situations, Texas provides a bonded-title process that can allow an applicant to establish ownership when the normal documentation is unavailable.
The process involves a certificate of title surety bond. The bond provides certain protections to prior owners, lienholders, and subsequent purchasers if an ownership or lien-related claim covered by the bond arises.
Does a bonded title mean the car is bad?
No.
The term "bonded" generally relates to the vehicle's ownership documentation and title history, not the mechanical condition of the automobile.
A bonded title does not automatically mean:
The vehicle is stolen
The vehicle is unsafe
The vehicle has mechanical problems
The vehicle has been wrecked
The vehicle has a salvage history
The vehicle is a bad purchase
Don’t be afraid to purchase a vehicle with a bonded title! At Houston Bonded Title & Surety Company we are here to help you with questions, assistance with paperwork, or assisting with your vehicle registration needs. We are not a Government office and there are additional fees if we are hired to apply for the title and registration on your behalf. Contact us for more information at 281-790-2933.
