Buying a Vehicle From a Dealer

When you buy a new or used vehicle from a Michigan dealer, the dealer:

• provides all necessary forms and ownership documents,
• collects the necessary fees and taxes,
• files the title application with a Secretary of State Branch Office within 15 days from the date of delivery,
• purchases or transfers your license plate for you, and
• provides copies of all paperwork.

Before accepting delivery of the vehicle, check to make sure all promised options and equipment have been included.  Test drive the vehicle again to make sure it is working properly.

By law, the dealer must give you a copy of each document when you sign it.  Never sign any blank documents or sign a document without reading it carefully.  The dealer should give you:

• a copy of the Application for Michigan Title - Statement of Vehicle Sale (RD-108).
• a copy of any written warranty on the vehicle or any services purchased (such as rustproofing or extended service contract).
• a copy of the odometer mileage statement, if buying a new vehicle.
• a copy of the "Buyer's Guide" window sticker, if buying a used vehicle.
• a new license plate and registration, or a 15-day temporary registration affixed to the rear window, and
• a copy of the finance contract lease agreement.

If you are purchasing a used vehicle, the dealer must show you the previous owner's title.  Examine it carefully.  If the title is an orange color and shows "this vehicle was previously issued a salvage title", the vehicle was previously issued a salvage title, probably due to vehicle damage.  You are entitled to a salvage disclosure form from the dealer.

After the Sale

You should receive a second copy of your Application for Michigan Title -- Statement of Vehicle Sale (RD-108) in the mail within 20 days of the sale.  You should receive a new title within 30 days.  Review it for accuracy.  If there are errors, contact your local Secretary of State Branch Office.

Always keep your title in a safe place.  Do not keep the title in your vehicle.