Abandoned vehicles might seem like diamonds in the rough to car enthusiasts and DIY mechanics. The idea of rescuing a neglected car and restoring it to its former glory can be appealing. However, before you jump into repairing a car that appears to be abandoned, it’s crucial to understand the legal implications and procedures, especially if you’re in New Jersey. This guide will walk you through identifying an abandoned vehicle and the necessary steps to legally acquire and potentially repair it.
What Constitutes an Abandoned Vehicle?
In New Jersey, a vehicle is legally considered abandoned if it remains in the same public location for three or more consecutive days. Often, these vehicles show signs of neglect, such as damage or missing essential components like the engine, wheels, tires, or license plates. It’s important to note that the process for handling abandoned vehicles differs based on where the vehicle is located – whether it’s on private property, public land, or at a repair facility.
Legal Steps to Acquire an Abandoned Vehicle for Repair in New Jersey
While “repairing an abandoned car” might first bring to mind mechanical work, the initial and most important step is navigating the legal process to rightfully claim the vehicle. New Jersey law outlines specific procedures depending on the location of the abandoned vehicle.
Abandoned Vehicles on Private Property
If you find a potentially abandoned vehicle on private property and are interested in acquiring it for repair, the property owner must initiate the process. According to New Jersey law (N.J.S.A. 39:4-56.6), vehicles abandoned on private land must be offered for public sale or auction. If an auction doesn’t result in a sale, the property owner can then apply for a title in their name.
For detailed instructions and the required forms, the “Procedures for Vehicles Abandoned on Private Property” packet is available online from the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC). This packet includes forms (OS/SS-138, SS-58, DO-22, OS/SS-135, OS/SS-136, OS/SS-139, and OS/SS-140). You’ll need to download and complete these forms and submit them with the necessary fees to the NJMVC via mail.
Abandoned Vehicles on Public Property
For vehicles abandoned on public property in New Jersey, the procedure is governed by N.J.S.A.39:10A-1 through 39:10-7. Public agencies are required to either auction these vehicles or dispose of them as junk. A junk title is issued if the vehicle is inoperable or unsafe to repair beyond its value.
The “Public Agency’s Guide to Abandoned & Unclaimed Vehicles” provides guidance for public agencies. This packet includes forms (OS/SS-322, OS/SS-89, OS/SS-87, Sample Bill of Sale, and Public Agency Checklist for Abandoned Vehicles). If you are interested in acquiring a vehicle from public property, you would typically need to attend a public auction held by the relevant agency.
Abandoned Vehicles at Auto Body Repair Facilities
If you are a business owner of a repair facility in New Jersey, you may encounter abandoned vehicles left by customers. New Jersey law (N.J.S.A. 39:10A-9 et seq.) allows repair facilities to handle vehicles left for over 60 days without consent or after repair completion notification. You can have the vehicle removed and stored, sell it publicly or privately, or obtain a junk title.
The “Instructions for Disposal of Motor Vehicles Abandoned at New Jersey Repair Facilities” packet provides the necessary forms (OS/SS-358, DO-22, OS/SS-21, OS/SS-357, OS/SS-135A, OS/SS-321, OS/SS-94, OS/SS-323, and OS/SS-324) and steps for repair facility owners to legally dispose of or sell abandoned vehicles. This process could potentially lead to acquiring a vehicle for repair if you are looking to purchase from a facility disposing of abandoned cars.
Abandoned Mobile Homes
While less directly related to car repair, the procedures for abandoned mobile homes in New Jersey are also outlined by the MVC, under P.L. 1999 c.340 and N.J.S.A. 2A:18-73 and N.J.S.A. 39:10-1 et seq. The “Instructions for Disposal of Abandoned Mobile Homes” packet details the process and includes forms (OS/SS-120, DO-22, OS/SS-UTA, OS/SS-62, OS/SS-122, and OS/SS-121).
Contacting the NJMVC for Assistance
For any of these scenarios, if you need assistance or wish to request the information packets by mail, you can contact the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) Special Titles Unit.
- Foreign Title Unit (for Private Property): 609-292-6500 ext. 5064 or [email protected]
- Abandoned Title Unit (for Public Property & Repair Facilities & Mobile Homes): 609-292-6500 ext. 5069 or [email protected]
Remember to submit all original paperwork and required fees by mail to:
New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission
Special Titles – [Relevant Unit Name]
225 East State Street
PO Box 017
Trenton, New Jersey 08666-0017
Repairing Your Acquired Abandoned Car
Once you have legally acquired the abandoned vehicle, the real work of repair begins. Abandoned cars often require extensive restoration, from mechanical overhauls to bodywork and interior refurbishment. Assess the vehicle’s condition carefully and plan your repair project meticulously. Remember to source parts, consider the costs involved, and ensure you have the skills or professional help needed to bring the vehicle back to a roadworthy condition.
Acquiring and repairing an abandoned car can be a rewarding project. However, understanding and following the legal procedures is the first and most critical step to ensure a smooth process and rightful ownership before you even pick up a wrench.
