What If a Car Dealership Doesn't File Registration Paperwork?

When you purchase a vehicle from a dealership, the process typically involves registering the vehicle with the appropriate governmental agency, often the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) or Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). This usually happens at the time of purchase, and you might be charged an administrative fee for this service. However, what should you do if the dealership fails to file the necessary paperwork? In this guide, we'll break down what to expect, your legal rights, and how to proceed if a dealership refuses to register your vehicle.

The Role of the Dealership in Vehicle Registration

When you buy a vehicle, the dealership is responsible for processing and submitting the registration paperwork to the DMV/MVA. This administrative work is often included in the overall purchase price, and you're charged a service fee for this service. If you paid this fee and the dealership didn't file the paperwork, you should demand a refund.

What to Do If You Are Refused a Refund

If the dealership refuses to give you a refund, you have several options to get the registration paperwork filed or at least a refund of your fee. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to proceed:

Request a refund: Contact the dealership and ask for a refund of the documentation fee, as well as any late registration penalties you may have incurred. Small claims court: If the dealership refuses to refund your money, you can file a claim in small claims court. Small claims courts are designed to handle minor disputes, and they are often less formal and less expensive than regular courts. Read your rights: It's important to familiarize yourself with the legal requirements for vehicle registration in your state. In some areas, such as California, there may be additional delays in processing paperwork due to backlog.

Legal Responsibilities After Purchase

Even if the dealership fails to register your vehicle, you are still legally required to do so within a specified timeframe, usually set by state law. Failing to register your vehicle can result in fines or other legal consequences. If you pay a documentation fee and the dealership does not file the paperwork, you have a right to seek a full refund, including any penalties you may have had to pay due to late registration.

Demanding a refund can be uncomfortable, but it's important to stand your ground and refuse to be intimidated or misled by the dealership. Remember, you have legal rights and options available to you.

Dealing with Backlogs and Temporary Registrations

For those in areas like California, there may be ongoing backlogs in processing paperwork for undocumented individuals. In these cases, the dealership may provide a temporary registration sticker (TEMP registration) to cover you until your permanent registration and plates arrive, typically within 4-6 weeks. If more than this period has elapsed, you should go to the DMV and handle the registration yourself. You can then return to the dealership and demand a refund of the documentation fee along with any late registration penalties.

Conclusion

Dealerships are responsible for processing vehicle registration paperwork, but they may sometimes fail to do so. If this happens, you can and should take steps to ensure that you are not financially penalized. Whether through direct negotiation, small claims court, or demanding a refund, you have the right to be reimbursed for your documentation fee. Do not let dealers intimidate or fool you. Stand up for your rights and ensure your vehicle is properly registered.