I certify that I, or the firm, company, or corporation I am authorized to represent, am the legal owner within the meaning of California Vehicle Code. This FAQ is designed to answer most common lien sale questions.The DMV's Lien Sale Unit is also available at (916) 657-7617. How do I fill this out? This page will provide an overview of California's Repossession Laws and what you should know if you've fallen behind on car payments. Under California law, a repossession agency must give you a notice of seizure within 48 hours of taking the car. Return of Personal Property: The lienholder is generally required to return any personal property found in the repossessed vehicle to you. The first step is to fill out an FTC Fraud Affidavit, from the Federal Trade Commission website. Under California law, your lender can repossess your vehicle the instant you default on your loan terms. The buyer knows nothing of the old lien or lender, and one day, the old lender seizes the vehicle.