Is it a bad idea for me to sell my car without a pink slip?

Question

I am in California. I want to sell my car, it's not in good shape at all but a guy that lives in my neighborhood keeps coming to my door and wanting to buy it. I told him that I don't have the title and I'm not sure if it's going to pass smog because it doesn't have park (the gear is broken...) My question is: is it a bad idea for me to sell my car without the title? If not, what do I need to do to be sure that I won't be liable for the car once I sell it to him? Is simply filling out an online transfer of title enough? Any help will be great, I just can't get to the bottom of this!! Thanks!

Update:

I'm aware that it's not a good idea for him to buy it... that wasn't the question. I was wondering about my personal liability, he can do what he wants.

SkyPilot- I consider it mine because it is mine- it's in my name I just lost the title. It's a little piece of paper just because it's lost doesn't mean the car has no owner.

SuziQu · Accepted Answer

This can be done if you go on line and get a form called 'application for duplicate title' and fill it out. This will serve as a title and can be used to transfer the vehicle, in California. It will need to be a 'clear title'(there can't be a 'legal owner' still showing on your registration). 
Give the buyer your filled out form and a bill of sale.
The problem is with the smog. Ca. law states that the seller must provide a smog or you may be liable for repairs.
Your personal liability is in great jeopardy if you don't provide title. If the buyer can't transfer the title into his name whatever happens, you are still the owner of the vehicle.

Otto · Answer

You cannot legally sell it unless you have a clear title. How do you consider it to be your car without proper documentation? ADDED_____ You said you didn't have the title. By that one would figure you never had one. If you are the legal owner, just go to the DMV and request a replacement title or if you wish to sell it soon, you can get a release of interest form. Problem solved.

? · Answer

Nope -- The dealer still owns part of the car..... Selling it and not paying the dealer is the same as theft.... There probably is a lien on the car...... In New York they put it right on the titles and wont let a new buyer register the car unless a lien release comes with the title.... This lien release is givin to the owner by the dealer or bank when the cars paid off....

Larry E · Answer

With out transferring the title the car will still be in your name no matter what.  When he buys it go to the courthouse with him and get a duplicate and transfer it on the Spot.

Ed Atun · Answer

You go with him to DMV on Monday.  Once they clear the sale, you are completely done.  They have a supervisor to fix any "lost pink slip" so you can sell the car.  Then you don't have to wonder if you have any liability. You won't..

Nomadd · Answer

Nobody with half a brain would buy a car with no title. Get it replaced first.

Anonymous · Answer

Without a title, a seller would not know if the car has been stolen or that the car belongs to you. A smart buyer would not go for this kind of sale.

winbone62 · Answer

Might not be a bad idea to sell but I sure would'nt buy one like that!

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Is it a bad idea for me to sell my car without a pink slip?

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