Buying used and worried the bank still owns half of it? Sensible.
In Australia, run a PPSR check using the VIN or rego; for a couple of dollars you’ll see if the car is "encumbered" and whether it’s written off or stolen.
If it’s encumbered, get a current payout letter from the finance company and arrange to pay them directly (or settle at the bank) so the title is cleared on the spot.
Dealers should provide clear title by law; private sales need paperwork smarts—have a written receipt stating "no money owing" with VIN, price, date, and seller ID.
Don’t hand over the full amount until the PPSR shows no debt and funds are confirmed; re-run the PPSR after settlement and keep the certificate with your records.
If anything smells off, walk away; there are plenty more cars on Tradingpost that won’t come with a surprise second owner named "The Bank."
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