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SoCal Matters

DMV Launches Tool to Help Owners Reclaim Money From Lien Sales

Season 2025 Episode 462

After a CalMatters investigation, DMV launched a lookup so owners can see surplus from lien sales. The agency collected over $8 million from nearly 5,300 cars since 2016. Owners have up to three years to claim refunds, and FAQs now explain how. One family received $5,000+ after an earlier error.

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