Pennsylvania MB Dealer claiming they don't have title yet -& delaying purchase/pickup
#1
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Pennsylvania MB Dealer claiming they don't have title yet -& delaying purchase/pickup
I've been in communication with Mercedes Benz of Pittsburgh for over a week about a used E400 I'm planning on purchasing from out of state on Saturday. I'd already planned my trip (650 miles round trip) and booked a hotel, along with putting the deposit on the car. Today, they sent me an email and said they don't have the title yet and that it may take over a week to obtain from the PA DMV. Now this car is a lease return they've had on the lot for sale since 12/13/2018 (6 weeks), so I have a hard time believing that. My best guess is they've found a local buyer who will pay them more and/or can do it sooner than this Saturday. The car in question is here https://www.mercedesbenzofpittsburgh...051a1bedd7.htm
I've checked online, but there doesn't appear to be a way to determine who holds a PA Title without submitting a paper request with a 5-10 business day turnaround. If they're being truthful, I may end up holding on and going up there a week or two from now to buy the car, but I'd like a way to verify if they're being truthful without calling them out.
If anyone here could run a title check or let me know if this sounds like a ploy to get me to back out, can you let me know? thanks!
I've checked online, but there doesn't appear to be a way to determine who holds a PA Title without submitting a paper request with a 5-10 business day turnaround. If they're being truthful, I may end up holding on and going up there a week or two from now to buy the car, but I'd like a way to verify if they're being truthful without calling them out.
If anyone here could run a title check or let me know if this sounds like a ploy to get me to back out, can you let me know? thanks!
#2
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This is funny. My parents were shopping for an E class at the end of December and I found that one, but it looked like it sold before they could take a look at it (around Dec 30). They ended up with a loaded 2017 E300. I liked that car with the desgno interior and ttV6. I think my dad my have seen evidence that one was in a wreck or had a car-fax issue, but they were looking at 5-6 so I could be confusing them. I'd double check.
I wouldn't worry about the title. I've bough new and CPO from both MB of Pitt, as well as Rahal (sister dealer in Wexford), and never gotten a title immediately at time of purchase (paying cash/check). The only time it bothered me was when the manager was giving me static about a check from an "out of state bank" which was really only 60 miles away with branches in PA, and they didn't even have the title. Dealers don't usually have titles for these cars, and probably don't process them until the transaction is complete. You will get your title.
I wouldn't worry about the title. I've bough new and CPO from both MB of Pitt, as well as Rahal (sister dealer in Wexford), and never gotten a title immediately at time of purchase (paying cash/check). The only time it bothered me was when the manager was giving me static about a check from an "out of state bank" which was really only 60 miles away with branches in PA, and they didn't even have the title. Dealers don't usually have titles for these cars, and probably don't process them until the transaction is complete. You will get your title.
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DubVBenz (01-24-2019)
#3
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This is funny. My parents were shopping for an E class at the end of December and I found that one, but it looked like it sold before they could take a look at it (around Dec 30). They ended up with a loaded 2017 E300. I liked that car with the desgno interior and ttV6. I think my dad my have seen evidence that one was in a wreck or had a car-fax issue, but they were looking at 5-6 so I could be confusing them. I'd double check.
I wouldn't worry about the title. I've bough new and CPO from both MB of Pitt, as well as Rahal (sister dealer in Wexford), and never gotten a title immediately at time of purchase (paying cash/check). The only time it bothered me was when the manager was giving me static about a check from an "out of state bank" which was really only 60 miles away with branches in PA, and they didn't even have the title. Dealers don't usually have titles for these cars, and probably don't process them until the transaction is complete. You will get your title.
I wouldn't worry about the title. I've bough new and CPO from both MB of Pitt, as well as Rahal (sister dealer in Wexford), and never gotten a title immediately at time of purchase (paying cash/check). The only time it bothered me was when the manager was giving me static about a check from an "out of state bank" which was really only 60 miles away with branches in PA, and they didn't even have the title. Dealers don't usually have titles for these cars, and probably don't process them until the transaction is complete. You will get your title.
#4
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nice car...
Title thing is weird but maybe MBUSA has it ince lease turn in?
good luck and the E400 are great cars as loaded with options
I like mine!
Title thing is weird but maybe MBUSA has it ince lease turn in?
good luck and the E400 are great cars as loaded with options
I like mine!
#5
I agree it is a bit of a wait but title should clear. As long as they are giving you the 30/45/60 day temporary tag and your insurance is contacted to add vehicle don't panic too much yet. I would definitely ask them if the title is holding up the deal as in financing. It shouldn't be a big deal. The financing will get approved and the PA title department will send it. Also remember and state governments to a lesser extent but GVVMNT SHUTDWN...….
I am confused....Your purchasing from MB PIT but they are purchasing out of state? is it one of their sister, brother, cousin who looks at your children way too long at family reunion dealerships? Uncle who for some reason is not allowed at the public pool during the summer dealerships?
12/13 makes is right at 42 days today. Deduct 12 days for weekends, Xmas, New Years plus possibility of personnel probably taking off Monday of both holidays that makes four more days, and MLK Birthday that makes it 17 days. Factor in the football purists that probably called in either Sick or Dead after losing seasons....Except for Cleveland...they are used to it....TOO SOON? Add in the sick calls or possible no shows for the Clemson fans, plus the Houston, Seattle, Baltimore and Chicago fans after Wild Card Weekend....Especially the Bears Kicker, he probably wanted to cut his toe off after that....Again too soon??
Now add in the Colts, Cowboy's Chargers and Eagles fans after Divisional rounds....and add Kansas City and New Orleans fans after last weekend....divide by the title department staffing and adjust for Cold/Flu, season, snow, fires, other life's mayhem events and in perspective six weeks isn't overly long.
Sorry I know your frustrated just trying to break the tension. One quick lesson from my time living in PA....Pittsburgh area ironically. If you are purchasing out of state Check two items. 1. Vehicle is factory equipped with CA Emissions,, trust me it should say it on window sticker or VIN search. As a exemption to rule 1....there is always some trick, and this one is believe it or not totally legal and in fact the PA DMV procedure for registration of NON California Emissions vehicles in PA. Part 2 If previously sold or registered in a state with NON California emissions make sure it is 7501 Miles or above. I guess they figure most engines, exhaust and emissions control systems are broke in by then. The other scenario and they will help you, believe it or not.... They will issue and renew/extend the Temporary Tag to get the vehicle above the 7500 mile threshold. I am sure they won't renew indefinite but I would say probably once if necessary. If you get bored check out some of the dealer websites for dealers along the Ohio/PA border. Window sticker check will probably show California Emissions. They don't sell every one but keep a few representative models of each fleet for exactly this scenario. Purchasing used even if was a executive/dealer demo it should have close to the 7500 mile minimum.
What part of OHIO? I lived in PA, purchased in Columbus (2014 Taurus SHO) but registered in TX. CA emissions not required because by the time the OH temp tag expired (45 days I believe for OH at the time) I was able to get a TX Temporary tag and extend once until I could afford the new vehicle TX sales tax and fees.
I am confused....Your purchasing from MB PIT but they are purchasing out of state? is it one of their sister, brother, cousin who looks at your children way too long at family reunion dealerships? Uncle who for some reason is not allowed at the public pool during the summer dealerships?
12/13 makes is right at 42 days today. Deduct 12 days for weekends, Xmas, New Years plus possibility of personnel probably taking off Monday of both holidays that makes four more days, and MLK Birthday that makes it 17 days. Factor in the football purists that probably called in either Sick or Dead after losing seasons....Except for Cleveland...they are used to it....TOO SOON? Add in the sick calls or possible no shows for the Clemson fans, plus the Houston, Seattle, Baltimore and Chicago fans after Wild Card Weekend....Especially the Bears Kicker, he probably wanted to cut his toe off after that....Again too soon??
Now add in the Colts, Cowboy's Chargers and Eagles fans after Divisional rounds....and add Kansas City and New Orleans fans after last weekend....divide by the title department staffing and adjust for Cold/Flu, season, snow, fires, other life's mayhem events and in perspective six weeks isn't overly long.
Sorry I know your frustrated just trying to break the tension. One quick lesson from my time living in PA....Pittsburgh area ironically. If you are purchasing out of state Check two items. 1. Vehicle is factory equipped with CA Emissions,, trust me it should say it on window sticker or VIN search. As a exemption to rule 1....there is always some trick, and this one is believe it or not totally legal and in fact the PA DMV procedure for registration of NON California Emissions vehicles in PA. Part 2 If previously sold or registered in a state with NON California emissions make sure it is 7501 Miles or above. I guess they figure most engines, exhaust and emissions control systems are broke in by then. The other scenario and they will help you, believe it or not.... They will issue and renew/extend the Temporary Tag to get the vehicle above the 7500 mile threshold. I am sure they won't renew indefinite but I would say probably once if necessary. If you get bored check out some of the dealer websites for dealers along the Ohio/PA border. Window sticker check will probably show California Emissions. They don't sell every one but keep a few representative models of each fleet for exactly this scenario. Purchasing used even if was a executive/dealer demo it should have close to the 7500 mile minimum.
What part of OHIO? I lived in PA, purchased in Columbus (2014 Taurus SHO) but registered in TX. CA emissions not required because by the time the OH temp tag expired (45 days I believe for OH at the time) I was able to get a TX Temporary tag and extend once until I could afford the new vehicle TX sales tax and fees.
#6
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I agree it is a bit of a wait but title should clear. As long as they are giving you the 30/45/60 day temporary tag and your insurance is contacted to add vehicle don't panic too much yet. I would definitely ask them if the title is holding up the deal as in financing. It shouldn't be a big deal. The financing will get approved and the PA title department will send it. Also remember and state governments to a lesser extent but GVVMNT SHUTDWN...….
I am confused....Your purchasing from MB PIT but they are purchasing out of state? is it one of their sister, brother, cousin who looks at your children way too long at family reunion dealerships? Uncle who for some reason is not allowed at the public pool during the summer dealerships?
12/13 makes is right at 42 days today. Deduct 12 days for weekends, Xmas, New Years plus possibility of personnel probably taking off Monday of both holidays that makes four more days, and MLK Birthday that makes it 17 days. Factor in the football purists that probably called in either Sick or Dead after losing seasons....Except for Cleveland...they are used to it....TOO SOON? Add in the sick calls or possible no shows for the Clemson fans, plus the Houston, Seattle, Baltimore and Chicago fans after Wild Card Weekend....Especially the Bears Kicker, he probably wanted to cut his toe off after that....Again too soon??
Now add in the Colts, Cowboy's Chargers and Eagles fans after Divisional rounds....and add Kansas City and New Orleans fans after last weekend....divide by the title department staffing and adjust for Cold/Flu, season, snow, fires, other life's mayhem events and in perspective six weeks isn't overly long.
Sorry I know your frustrated just trying to break the tension. One quick lesson from my time living in PA....Pittsburgh area ironically. If you are purchasing out of state Check two items. 1. Vehicle is factory equipped with CA Emissions,, trust me it should say it on window sticker or VIN search. As a exemption to rule 1....there is always some trick, and this one is believe it or not totally legal and in fact the PA DMV procedure for registration of NON California Emissions vehicles in PA. Part 2 If previously sold or registered in a state with NON California emissions make sure it is 7501 Miles or above. I guess they figure most engines, exhaust and emissions control systems are broke in by then. The other scenario and they will help you, believe it or not.... They will issue and renew/extend the Temporary Tag to get the vehicle above the 7500 mile threshold. I am sure they won't renew indefinite but I would say probably once if necessary. If you get bored check out some of the dealer websites for dealers along the Ohio/PA border. Window sticker check will probably show California Emissions. They don't sell every one but keep a few representative models of each fleet for exactly this scenario. Purchasing used even if was a executive/dealer demo it should have close to the 7500 mile minimum.
What part of OHIO? I lived in PA, purchased in Columbus (2014 Taurus SHO) but registered in TX. CA emissions not required because by the time the OH temp tag expired (45 days I believe for OH at the time) I was able to get a TX Temporary tag and extend once until I could afford the new vehicle TX sales tax and fees.
I am confused....Your purchasing from MB PIT but they are purchasing out of state? is it one of their sister, brother, cousin who looks at your children way too long at family reunion dealerships? Uncle who for some reason is not allowed at the public pool during the summer dealerships?
12/13 makes is right at 42 days today. Deduct 12 days for weekends, Xmas, New Years plus possibility of personnel probably taking off Monday of both holidays that makes four more days, and MLK Birthday that makes it 17 days. Factor in the football purists that probably called in either Sick or Dead after losing seasons....Except for Cleveland...they are used to it....TOO SOON? Add in the sick calls or possible no shows for the Clemson fans, plus the Houston, Seattle, Baltimore and Chicago fans after Wild Card Weekend....Especially the Bears Kicker, he probably wanted to cut his toe off after that....Again too soon??
Now add in the Colts, Cowboy's Chargers and Eagles fans after Divisional rounds....and add Kansas City and New Orleans fans after last weekend....divide by the title department staffing and adjust for Cold/Flu, season, snow, fires, other life's mayhem events and in perspective six weeks isn't overly long.
Sorry I know your frustrated just trying to break the tension. One quick lesson from my time living in PA....Pittsburgh area ironically. If you are purchasing out of state Check two items. 1. Vehicle is factory equipped with CA Emissions,, trust me it should say it on window sticker or VIN search. As a exemption to rule 1....there is always some trick, and this one is believe it or not totally legal and in fact the PA DMV procedure for registration of NON California Emissions vehicles in PA. Part 2 If previously sold or registered in a state with NON California emissions make sure it is 7501 Miles or above. I guess they figure most engines, exhaust and emissions control systems are broke in by then. The other scenario and they will help you, believe it or not.... They will issue and renew/extend the Temporary Tag to get the vehicle above the 7500 mile threshold. I am sure they won't renew indefinite but I would say probably once if necessary. If you get bored check out some of the dealer websites for dealers along the Ohio/PA border. Window sticker check will probably show California Emissions. They don't sell every one but keep a few representative models of each fleet for exactly this scenario. Purchasing used even if was a executive/dealer demo it should have close to the 7500 mile minimum.
What part of OHIO? I lived in PA, purchased in Columbus (2014 Taurus SHO) but registered in TX. CA emissions not required because by the time the OH temp tag expired (45 days I believe for OH at the time) I was able to get a TX Temporary tag and extend once until I could afford the new vehicle TX sales tax and fees.
Sorry for the confusion. I live in Virginia and would be traveling to Pitt purchase the car. I'd be putting around 50% down and financing the rest with MB of Pitt, which shouldn't have any problem clearing with my FICO score (and they've already run it as per my credit report). The car will ultimately be registered in an area of VA with no emissions inspections and it now has 28K miles, so I should be OK with any emissions stuff. MB of Pitt did not purchase the car, it's a lease return and looks like it was always registered in Pennsylvania.
The car is pretty loaded and sort of rare-ish, but I'm paranoid about buying it basically sight unseen.
#7
If it is a MB high volume dealer and it was a lease return then you should be fine. I am guessing after their inspection it might qualify for CPO status which Is good. If it was always registered and inspected in PA then I would be about 99% confident of California Emissions. The CA emission standard is not necessarily your county. Most states around almost 30 at last check require California emissions standards for initial registration. Since your last was PA should be fine even if not you would be good at the over 7500 mile exemption.
That reminds me inneed to check mine. Initial registration in SOCAllL so should have it but stil curious.
That reminds me inneed to check mine. Initial registration in SOCAllL so should have it but stil curious.
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DubVBenz (01-24-2019)
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#8
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Not saying they aren't BS'ing you, but I could see how a dealer might be required to have the title to sell to a buyer out of state who will be registering the car themselves. If the car was being sold in PA, then the dealer would file the paperwork on the buyer's behalf for the title transfer in PA. But since you're not registering it in PA, you may need the title to register in Virginia. If this car were new, then there wouldn't be the same issue.
If you want to know for sure, why not call another dealer in PA like in Philly and talk to the finance department and ask about title delays as an out of state buyer if you to buy one of their CPO cars.
If you want to know for sure, why not call another dealer in PA like in Philly and talk to the finance department and ask about title delays as an out of state buyer if you to buy one of their CPO cars.
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DubVBenz (01-24-2019)
#9
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Thanks for the input everyone. I think I'm going to give them the benefit of doubt for now and see where this whole thing takes me. I'm sure everyone understands the anxiousness when awaiting a car that you've been searching for for a while.
#10
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Oh I get it. Given the scarcity of certain options, when you get the right combo of price, miles, color and options you better act quick.
#12
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If you finance then it is MBFINANACE problem of getting title as they will hold it until note paid in full.
so this should all be non issue for dealership - unless they lost title etc and have nothing to turn in once you do the paperwork.
DO they know you are financing?
so this should all be non issue for dealership - unless they lost title etc and have nothing to turn in once you do the paperwork.
DO they know you are financing?
#13
I bought a car from a dealer in AZ a few years back. Since AZ has electronic titles, I was given a 90 day temporary tag and got the title only after about 70 days. PA also has electronic titles, and since the car is a CPO car, I think everything will work out fine.
#14
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1922 Ford Model T / no OBD
I think the above situation calls for serious talk with dealership owner.
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DubVBenz (01-25-2019)
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1922 Ford Model T / no OBD
Trying to help, I check the availability and dealer responded.
Are you aware the car has reported accident?
Also it is listed as factory certified, not CPO
Lot of money for something that doesn't have fresh smell.
Are you aware the car has reported accident?
Also it is listed as factory certified, not CPO
Lot of money for something that doesn't have fresh smell.
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1922 Ford Model T / no OBD
As far as I know car with collision can't be CPO, but I don't buy CPO, so don't take my word for it.
small or big, accidents can be excuse for voiding the warranty, so would I be in your shoes, I would really work on my homework.
Dealer send me package, who included Carfax
small or big, accidents can be excuse for voiding the warranty, so would I be in your shoes, I would really work on my homework.
Dealer send me package, who included Carfax
Last edited by kajtek1; 01-25-2019 at 12:51 PM.
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DubVBenz (01-25-2019)
#18
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2014 E550-sold 😩
It appears to be de-badged. That always makes me nervous when looking at a car. It could be paint work or just a previous owner who didn't care for emblems. The car is very well optioned and that is great. A unicorn.
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DubVBenz (01-25-2019)
#19
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As far as I know car with collision can't be CPO, but I don't buy CPO, so don't take my word for it.
small or big, accidents can be excuse for voiding the warranty, so would I be in your shoes, I would really work on my homework.
Dealer send me package, who included Carfax
small or big, accidents can be excuse for voiding the warranty, so would I be in your shoes, I would really work on my homework.
Dealer send me package, who included Carfax
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#21
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2014 E550-sold 😩
They are both really nice. The '16 has about the same original warranty left and since they are CPO, I think the '15 is the way to go. You could shoot the Florida car an offer and see if you can close the gap.
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May continue to monitor the FL car. Your 550 is the one I originally started looking for, but they're old enough now that finding low mileage examples with CPO is near impossible. There's only about a dozen for sale in the entire country currently.
#23
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2014 E550-sold 😩
Wow, that’s crazy. It has been a great car.