Queens Couple's BMW Repossessed After DMV Records Error

Incorrect DMV data hid an existing lien, leading to a brief vehicle repossession.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 10:03pm

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Heavily blurred streaks of bright blue, red, and white paint representing the frantic motion of a repossessed vehicle being towed away, conceptually illustrating the chaos and uncertainty caused by title washing fraud.The chaotic repossession of a vehicle due to hidden liens and title washing fraud exposes vulnerabilities in the used car buying process.Queens Today

A Queens couple, Jennifer and William Malave, recently purchased a used BMW, but weeks later their newly bought car was briefly repossessed due to an error in the DMV's records that hid an existing lien on the vehicle. The couple was able to get the car back after the lender, Santander Consumer USA, acknowledged the unlawful removal of the lien and released it.

Why it matters

This case highlights the risks of 'title washing' fraud, where a vehicle's branded history or liens are scrubbed from official paperwork, often by retitling the car across state lines. It also raises questions about the reliability of state DMV records and the need for buyers to thoroughly research a vehicle's history beyond just the paperwork provided.

The details

The Malaves wired $21,937 to a Suffolk County dealer in December to purchase a used BMW, and the title they received showed no liens. However, weeks later a tow truck showed up and repossessed the car, which the couple then tracked down to a nearby lot. They discovered the vehicle had a lien held by Santander Consumer USA, even though the DMV's records showed 'no liens recorded.' After media inquiries, Santander acknowledged the lien was unlawfully removed and released it, allowing the Malaves to get their car back.

  • In December, the Malaves purchased the used BMW.
  • A few weeks later, the BMW was repossessed from the Malaves' driveway.

The players

Jennifer and William Malave

A Queens couple who purchased a used BMW, only to have it briefly repossessed due to an error in the DMV's records.

Santander Consumer USA

The lender that held a lien on the BMW, which was unlawfully removed from the official records.

New York DMV

The state agency that is investigating fraud allegations related to the removal of the lien from its records.

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What’s next

The New York DMV has said it is investigating the fraud allegations and 'took action' after being notified of the issue. The Malaves and consumer advocates are now left wondering whether the system has enough safeguards to prevent similar problems in the future.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance for car buyers to thoroughly research a vehicle's history beyond just the paperwork provided, as state DMV records alone can miss critical information like hidden liens or 'title washing' fraud. Experts advise using national databases and paid vehicle history reports to uncover potential red flags.