How Long Should the Interval Be Between Two Second-hand Car Ownership Transfers?
3 Answers
In fact, there are no special requirements for the interval between second-hand car ownership transfers. As long as the transfer process complies with regulations, there will be no issues. This means that even if the same car is transferred twice in one day, it is acceptable as long as the transfer process is followed. Here are some considerations: 1. Transfer Information: No matter how short the transfer interval is, the vehicle's green book will record detailed information such as the time of each transfer and the transferee. If a vehicle is transferred multiple times within a short period, it gives second-hand car dealers more room for price negotiation when selling the car. 2. Frequent Transfers: If a car is transferred too many times in a short period, it is unfavorable for the owner. Although the most important factors when buying a second-hand car are the vehicle's condition and whether the paperwork is in order, many people are wary of cars that have been transferred too many times. If a vehicle has been transferred multiple times in a short period, it is hard not to suspect that the car may have serious quality issues or have been involved in major accidents.
Last time I helped a friend buy a car, I paid special attention to the number of ownership transfers and found that there’s actually no strict time regulation between two transfers—you can space them out as long as you want. However, in reality, few people rush to resell immediately after a transfer, as this would raise suspicions for the next owner. Once, I came across a BMW that had been transferred three times within half a year, and the dealer frankly admitted it was a debt-settled car changing hands quickly. If the interval is shorter than a month or two, buyers should be extra cautious and check the maintenance records—it might be an accident-repaired vehicle. Of course, as long as the paperwork is complete, you can transfer ownership today and sell it tomorrow at the DMV, but sellers are likely to lose money since frequent transfer labels can devalue the car by 20-30%.
As an experienced car dealer, I've handled many vehicles that have changed hands multiple times. The shortest interval between two transfers was just three days. That was a company car auctioned off and then privately transferred to an employee, so the timing was purely driven by transaction needs. However, I'd advise ordinary buyers to allow longer intervals—wait at least three months before selling to the next owner. If the vehicle registration changes immediately after obtaining a new license, buyers might suspect you're hiding flood damage. I've noticed that cars transferred twice within six months often have engine numbers worn down from repeated stamping. By the way, license plate retention rules also affect the interval—if transferred within three years, the old plate can't stay with the vehicle.
