Property possession does not establish vehicle ownership
A car left in a driveway, rental property or storage area is different from your own unwanted car. Gather any known owner details and existing correspondence. Do not sign as the vehicle owner merely because you control the property.
Check the private-party lien-sale restriction
California DMV’s July 2024 bulletin says private parties cannot use the vehicle lien-sale process unless they lawfully operate a vehicle repair, towing or storage business and are legally owed unpaid compensation. A private property owner should not assume that a storage claim creates a right to sell the car.
Use the applicable removal process
The same bulletin directs qualifying property owners to the requirements of Vehicle Code section 22658 for abandoned-vehicle removal. It explains that the towing company removing the vehicle may conduct the applicable lien sale. Ask the local authority or qualified towing operator which requirements apply before authorizing removal. Before contacting the operator, record the property type, exact vehicle location, how you control the property, any posted signs or notices, and whether the owner is known. Ask the operator to identify the applicable section 22658 authorization and notice requirements for that situation, who must sign, and what record you will receive. Do not authorize a sale merely by authorizing removal.
Request an offer once ownership is established
For a car you own, use the California title or missing-title route and request an offer with its condition and location. If ownership is disputed or unknown, resolve that issue first. Keep a private purchase separate from a municipal abatement or towing lien-sale process.
Official sources.
Sources reviewed September 26, 2026. Use the current instructions for your vehicle and transaction.