Right away
- Insurance. Make sure your policy is active on the new vehicle. If you financed, you agreed to carry collision and comprehensive coverage until the loan is paid off. Add the car to your policy if you have not already.
- Keep your paperwork. Store your complete signed copies somewhere safe: the purchase contract, Buyer's Guide, Due Bill, and any disclosures. Keep your proof of insurance and temporary registration in the glove box.
Registration and plates
- You leave with a temporary registration. Your permanent registration and plates (or stickers) come from the California DMV by mail.
- The smog certificate was handled at the time of sale, so you do not need to arrange one.
- If your registration or plates have not arrived in a reasonable time, call Tim and we will check on it.
If you financed
- Note your first payment date and how to pay your lender. Setting up autopay or a reminder helps you avoid a late charge.
- Keep your insurance active for the life of the loan. A lapse is a default under the contract.
- You can pay the loan off early at any time.
Your records
- Keep the vehicle history report you received with your documents.
- If any work or accessories were promised, they are written on your Due Bill and must be completed within 30 days. Call to schedule.
- Not sure what a document means? Revisit the plain-English summary or the contract terms glossary.
One more thing
If you had a good experience, a quick review really helps a family business like ours. You can leave one for Simi Valley or El Monte. Thank you.