Buying an out of state car............

[my4devils]

Having a really hard time finding a decent beater. I found one in Maryland that I am interested in- we are in Pa. I have googled to get info- but I am confused. If anyone in PA has any knowledge or experience about buying an out of state car I would greatly appreciate your help. The time is ticking until our van is surrendered and I dont want to be stuck with no wheels!!

Also- if by chance the repo man would come before I get another- can I take the plates of the van and then transfer them when I get a new car?

[magyar123]

Call up your state's (PA) Motor Vehicles Dept.
Re: your second question - I doubt it. Each car has different VINs. You cannot just transfer plates from one to another.

[my4devils]

Thanks- I will tomorrow when they open. When you trade in an old car for a new one at a dealership you transfer the plates- wouldnt the same logic apply if I am surrendering the van?

[FreshLikeADaisy]

My4, the difference is that at the dealership, they transfer the title via your local DMV, and *then* swap the plates. Your best bet is to contact the DMV in Pennsylvania to see what the procedure there is to swap the plates once you get the car home; I'm betting that the dealership in Maryland will give you a temporary tag for the vehicle, registered in MD, and you take it wherever you want from there. Good luck!!!

[CindyLou]

Make sure you check the smog requirements for an out of state vehicle and that it will pass a smog inspection before you buy it. I know here is california there are very strick requirements for cars purchased out of state.