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Purchased car with Swapped VIN tags.

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Joe_Rockhead

Junior Member
What is the name of your state? CA

I purchased this vehicle in 2005 from an independent dealer in California. The vechicle was advertised as a 2000 model with 4.7L engine. I paid cash. The dealer filled out the paperwork and said he was out of extra copies so he just burned me a one-sided Xerox copy which he then signed it as well.

During recent repairs to my vehicle, it was discovered that the VIN on the title and on the dash do not match the actual vehicle. Also, no parts would fit the vehicle. The VIN tag is missing from the inside door panel so the only tag is on the dash. I was able to find another VIN marking on the frame. I looked up this VIN on carfax and it turns out to be a 1998 model with 5.2L engine. This is the actual VIN. The Carfax report says that this VIN is a Lemon Buy Back. Someone obviously laundered the VIN.

I contacted DMV who referred me to the CHP. I spoke with a CHP VIN Officer who advised me that if I came in, he would have to impound the vehicle and it will most likely be destroyed. I was just hoping to have the correct VIN attached so I can legally sell it down the road.

Is there anything else I can do but lose my truck? I purchased in January 2005.

Thanks!
 



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