On Jun 30, 2010, at 3:29 PM, Dave Mcneely <mcneely4@COX.NET> wrote:
>>
> So, why do such a thing?  A legitimate seller has title, and can
> transfer it to you.  Not true?  Methinks it is.

Some States do not require or have titles or older vehicles. Just
because a vehicle is being sold with a Bill-of-Sale only does note
mean there is something underhanded going on. For example, if you
bought a car from Georgia, the Seller sells with a BoS only. If then
go to California DMV and tell them where you got the vehicle, they
will accept the BoS in lieu of a title. To find out specific rules for
your particular DMV go my old webpage. There's a link near the bottom
for all the DMV's in the US.

http://www.vanagoncafe.com/

Now I am not saying there aren't some unscrupulous people who
intentionally hide the title for reasons mentioned by others before.
You can call the DMV for the State where the vehicle is located to
find out if there are any liens  or other ownership issues. You may
want to check Carfax, Autocheck, or similar service because not all US
DMV offices exchange information. I have good example of that. I own a
vehicle which had Salvage Title in two other States. In California,
it's got clear title. Shows up on Carfax.

Regards,

BenT