Your title is essentially proof that you own the car you're driving. It can sometimes be referred to as a pink slip, but it is needed when you plan to sell or trade-in your vehicle. As an important document, it should be kept in a safe location in your home. You don't need to have it inside the car unless you plan on taking it out that day. Remember, no matter if you're planning to buy or sell, it's an imperative piece of information that will always be needed. Just like having insurance, it's a key part of car ownership everyone must abide by.

The details you find in a title can vary somewhat depending on the state you live in, but they typically contain the following information:

• VIN- This stands for the vehicle identification number, which is comprised of a special 17-digit number that is used to identify your car. It's usually on the inside of the windshield where the dashboard meets.

• The year your car was built, along with the make and model.

• Your full name, along with your current address.

• Lienholder- If you're financing the car, your lender's name is on the title until you've paid off the loan. Once the term is over, the title is officially transferred into your name.

• Mileage- The odometer reading should match the same number found on the title when it was issued to you. It's beneficial to check this information, especially when buying a pre-owned vehicle.

Depending on your car's condition, your car title is "branded", meaning a name gets attached to it. There are many different names attached to them, but the main ones are listed below.

1. Clear Title- This status means the vehicle hasn't had significant damage that is beyond fixable. Also, it means that you are indeed the legal owner, without any outstanding financial obligations to your lender. This is typically considered the "ideal" car title status for anyone looking to get a vehicle.

2. Salvage Title- This status means the car has had significant damage( reducing the value 75 percent or more). While these cars can still be repaired to be driven again, they cannot gain the "clear" status again. Also, they typically don't qualify for financing.

3. Rebuilt/Reconstructed Title- Once the vehicle has been repaired or rebuilt for operation, the salvage status gets changed to "rebuilt' or "reconstructed." A comprehensive inspection is required before they are able to be driven.

4. Dismantled Title- A dismantled title means the cost to repair the vehicle exceeds the actual value. Any vehicle with this status attached to it is not allowed to be driven, and typically, parts are used for scrap.

There are different ways to get a car title, depending on where you get the vehicle.

• If you have selected not to buy your car from a dealership and pay upfront, you'll typically get the title via mail within 30 days.

• Private sellers should transfer the title over to you upon purchase, then you register at your local DMV.

• Once you've paid for your vehicle's loan, the title is sent in the mail in the coming weeks.

The bottom line to remember is that a car title is an important document for any vehicle you plan to buy. When you plan to buy a used car, it's important to work with a trusted dealer like Giant Cadillac. You can put yourself at risk of being taken advantage of when purchasing privately. At our dealership, we always have your best interests in mind. If you have any questions about financing, your car title, or have an interest in our new and pre-owned inventory, we'd be glad to help. Get in touch with us today.