[WA] What can I do if someone fraudulently transferred my motorcycle title and stopped paying after a trade?

WA Criminal

Hello, I’m in a situation I don’t know how to fix. I owned a 2001 Harley Fat Boy and sold it to a man who still owed me $10,000. He also traded me a 1999 Ford F-150, but I later found out the odometer doesn’t work, and the truck isn’t worth what he claimed.

January 9, 2026

Elizabeth

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If he transferred the bike without a title, he may have used a bonded title (RCW 46.12.650, RCW 46.12.680). That means you likely can’t repossess and may need to sue for fraud.

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Lexi, Chatbot

I’m sorry you’re dealing with this. Do you have any written agreements or contracts about the Harley sale or the truck trade?

Within the first 24 hours, I tried to return the truck. He said he’d pay the $10k in payments. We first agreed on $200 a month, then changed it to $500.

Lexi, Chatbot

Have you tried contacting him about the missed payments and the truck issues?

He hasn’t answered my calls or texts for four months.

Lexi, Chatbot

Is there anything else the lawyer should know?

I found out the bike is no longer in my name. He must have forged my signature or a bill of sale. He never had the title.

Elizabeth

Hi, I’m Liz, an attorney. I can help. What state did this happen in?

Washington State. His sister was making payments, but stopped in May. Now no one will give me his address or phone number.

Elizabeth

Do you know where he stays or visits frequently?

No. His sister won’t tell us. She claims the bike is paid off, which isn’t true.

Elizabeth

Do you know the truck’s value?

Kelley Blue Book says about $900 trade-in. The gauges don’t work, no speedometer or odometer. I can’t even fix it without a title.

Elizabeth

If he transferred the bike without a title, he may have used a bonded title (RCW 46.12.650, RCW 46.12.680). That means you likely can’t repossess and may need to sue for fraud.

I tried to back out within 24 hours, but he refused. He promised to bring the title and never did.

Elizabeth

This sounds like fraudulent misrepresentation. You may be able to sue for damages.

I only make $932 a month. I can’t afford a lawyer upfront.

Elizabeth

You may find an attorney willing to work on contingency. Also, the prior landlord (Jimmy) might have a forwarding address.

The bike might even be on Jimmy’s property.

Elizabeth

Serving him will be the biggest challenge, but locations he frequents could work. I hope this helps—feel free to ask more questions.

Elizabeth

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