How to Handle a Junk Car Release from an Abandoned Title in Ohio

Have a junk car sitting on your property with no title and no clear owner? Whether it was left by a previous tenant, inherited through unclear estate documentation, or simply abandoned, navigating Ohio’s laws on junk vehicle title release can be overwhelming. At Columbus Junk Cars Express, we regularly assist Columbus residents with removing vehicles that have been left behind or are considered abandoned—and we ensure every step follows state law.

Columbus Junk Cars Express

7/21/20252 min read

What Is an Abandoned Title?

In Ohio, an "abandoned vehicle" refers to any vehicle that has been:

Left on private property without permission
Parked on public property for 72+ hours without valid plates
Considered inoperable or clearly abandoned without intent to recover

These vehicles often have no accessible owner or active registration, making a standard title transfer difficult or impossible.

Can You Legally Sell or Remove a Junk Car Without the Title?

Yes, but only under specific conditions. Ohio law requires that you:

Attempt to contact the last known owner (if possible)
Report the vehicle to law enforcement or local government if on public land
Apply for an abandoned vehicle title through the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) if it’s on your private property

This process allows you to legally take possession of the vehicle so it can be scrapped, donated, or recycled.

Steps to Obtain a Junk Car Release in Ohio

Here’s how to handle a junk car with no title or confirmed owner:

✅ Step 1: File a Report with Local Law Enforcement

If the car was left on your property without consent, start by filing a report with Columbus Police or your local sheriff’s office. This creates an official record of the abandonment.

✅ Step 2: Submit an Abandoned Vehicle Affidavit

Once you’ve made the report, fill out an Affidavit of Abandoned Motor Vehicle and submit it to the BMV. You’ll need:

Proof the vehicle is on your property
Copy of the police report
A description of the vehicle (VIN, make, model, year)

✅ Step 3: Request a Title Through the Ohio BMV

If no one claims the vehicle after the waiting period (usually 10–30 days), the BMV may issue you an abandoned title or salvage title, allowing you to legally sell or dispose of the vehicle.

What If You Don’t Want to Handle the Paperwork?

That’s where Columbus Junk Cars Express can help. We:

Guide you through the title recovery process
Offer free junk car towing
Accept salvage or affidavit-based ownership documents
Ensure all removals comply with Ohio vehicle disposal laws

In many cases, we can help remove the vehicle before the full title transfer is complete, as long as the proper documentation is underway.

Don’t Risk a Fine or Property Code Violation

Leaving a junk or abandoned car on your property can lead to:

Fines from city code enforcement
Decreased property value
Complaints from neighbors or HOAs

Taking proactive steps to remove the car legally is the best way to avoid complications.

Meta Description:
Dealing with an abandoned car in Ohio? Learn how to legally handle a junk car release and title transfer with help from Columbus Junk Cars Express.

📍 Columbus Junk Cars Express
📞 (614) 440-1222
📧 info@columbusjunkcarsexpress.com
📍 3550 Groveport East Rd, Columbus, OH 43207
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