can't find title for trade-in! now what?

[wantaridge]

i'm planning to purchase my RL tomorrow with a trade-in, and the title for my trade-in is not in the place I thought it was. I've searched everywhere I can think of and still can't find it.
The only place left to look is at work in my office, which isn't exactly close by. It'll probably be a 3 hour ordeal to go to my office, search for it, and drive back. If I can't find it, what are my options? How do I get another? Is there a form I can just fill out to sign over title to the dealer?
I'm in California, by the way.

[MikeT]

Originally Posted by wantaridge

i'm planning to purchase my RL tomorrow with a trade-in, and the title for my trade-in is not in the place I thought it was. I've searched everywhere I can think of and still can't find it.
The only place left to look is at work in my office, which isn't exactly close by. It'll probably be a 3 hour ordeal to go to my office, search for it, and drive back. If I can't find it, what are my options? How do I get another? Is there a form I can just fill out to sign over title to the dealer?
I'm in California, by the way.

Call the bank that financed the purchase, they will be able to get one for you.

[fredridge]

go in, trade it in and take the title back later, if you can't find I think the dealership can request duplicate.

[wantaridge]

thanks for the replies...
it was finanaced through Honda so maybe that will help.
AAA website says they can do duplicate titles. There is one open Saturdays near the dealership. I will go there first and see if they can take care of it there.

[Kepeli]

When I bought my Ridge I couldn't locate the title for my trade, the dealer took care of it.

[franc944]

Some DMV require "defective title bonds" pretty inexpensive, base don the value of the car with lost title to guarantee the new owner the car is rightfully yours.

Just costs money.

[shovelhd]

Once it's all over, go out and buy yourself a $100 fire safe and keep all of your important papers in it.

[ANT2KNEE]

itll cost you around 45 dollars from the dmv for a replacement

[steveberger]

If you have an outstanding loan, the LOANER holds the title till you pay it off.

[krdomingue]

Methods differ from state to state. In Texas the dealer can check on-line for any liens against the vehicle. If there is one, the title will be held with the lender. If there isn't any then they can get you to sign a limited power of attorney and apply for a replacement title for about $15.