Ready to use legal template

Drafted by experienced lawyers

Compliant with Filipino law

Ready to use legal template

Drafted by lawyers

Compliant with Filipino law

HomeBusiness contractsCar Purchase Contract

Learn more about Car Purchase Contract in Philippines

Using a Car Purchase Contract in the Philippines is highly advisable when buying or selling a vehicle. This legally binding document serves to protect the rights and interests of both the buyer and the seller. A Car Purchase Contract clearly outlines the terms and conditions of the transaction, including the agreed-upon price, payment method, delivery date, and any additional terms or conditions. By having a contract in place, both parties have a mutual understanding of their obligations, minimizing the risk of misunderstandings or disputes. The contract also provides a record of the transaction, ensuring that the buyer obtains legal ownership of the vehicle and protecting the seller from any liabilities or claims after the sale.

Table of contents


What is a Car Purchase Contract?

A car purchase contract in the Philippines is a legally binding agreement between a buyer and a seller for the purchase of a vehicle. It outlines the terms and conditions of the sale, including the details of the vehicle, the purchase price, payment terms, and any additional agreements or warranties.

The car purchase contract identifies the parties involved, including their names, addresses, and contact details. It specifies the details of the vehicle being purchased, such as the make, model, year, color, vehicle identification number (VIN), engine number, and registration details.

The contract states the agreed-upon purchase price for the vehicle and may include information about any additional charges, such as taxes, registration fees, or insurance. It also outlines the payment method and schedule, including details about the down payment, installment payments, or full payment. The contract also specifies the date and location of the vehicle delivery, as well as the transfer of ownership process. It may include information about the necessary documents, such as the certificate of registration and deed of sale.

Additionally, the contract may outline any warranties provided by the seller, including the duration and coverage. It may also mention the condition of the vehicle at the time of sale, indicating any known defects or damages. The contract may include provisions for termination of the agreement and the remedies available to the parties in case of breach or dispute.

Why to use a Car Purchase Contract?

A car purchase contract provides clarity and a clear understanding of the terms and conditions of the sale for both the buyer and the seller. It offers legal protection to both parties, ensuring their rights and responsibilities are documented. By having a written contract, it helps prevent misunderstandings or disputes regarding crucial aspects such as the purchase price, payment terms, warranties, and other important details. Additionally, the car purchase contract facilitates the smooth transfer of ownership from the seller to the buyer, providing a legally recognized record of the transaction.

What should a Car Purchase Contract include?

When creating a car purchase contract in the Philippines, there are several key elements that should be included:

Parties involved: Clearly identify the buyer and the seller by providing their names, addresses, and contact details.
Vehicle information: Include detailed information about the vehicle being purchased, such as the make, model, year, color, vehicle identification number (VIN), engine number, and registration details.
Purchase price: Specify the agreed-upon purchase price for the vehicle. Additionally, mention any additional charges like taxes, registration fees, or insurance.
Payment terms: Outline the payment method and schedule. This should include information about the down payment, installment payments (if applicable), and the due dates for each payment.
Delivery and transfer of ownership: Clearly state the expected date and location of the vehicle delivery. Include information about the transfer of ownership process and any required documents, such as the certificate of registration and deed of sale.
Warranty and condition: If there are any warranties provided by the seller, include details about their duration and coverage. Additionally, disclose the condition of the vehicle at the time of sale, noting any known defects or damages.
Termination and remedies: Define the circumstances under which the contract can be terminated and specify the remedies available to the parties in case of breach or dispute.

It is crucial to draft the car purchase contract accurately and ensure that all terms and conditions are clearly stated. Both the buyer and seller should review the contract thoroughly before signing to ensure that their rights and interests are protected.

How to protect your interests with a Car Purchase Contract?

To protect your interests with a Car Purchase Contract in the Philippines, include crucial elements in the agreement. Clearly describe the vehicle’s details, such as make, model, and VIN, and request the seller’s representations regarding its condition and history. Allow for an inspection and test drive before finalizing the purchase. Specify the purchase price, payment terms, and the transfer of ownership upon full payment. Include provisions for delivery and condition, allowing you to reject the vehicle if it does not meet the agreed-upon standards. Consider including clauses for dispute resolution and ensure compliance with Philippine laws. Seeking legal guidance in drafting or reviewing the Car Purchase agreement is advisable to ensure its effectiveness and protection of your interests.

How to transfer ownership of a car to a new owner in Philippines?

1. Prepare the Required Documents: Gather the necessary documents, including the following:

Original Certificate of Registration (CR) and Official Receipt (OR) of the vehicle
Notarized Deed of Sale or Contract of Sale
Original copies of the new owner's valid government-issued identification cards (ID)

2. Pay Any Outstanding Obligations: Clear any outstanding obligations associated with the vehicle, such as unpaid taxes, fines, or penalties. Ensure that the vehicle has updated registration and is free from any encumbrances.

3. Execute the Deed of Sale or Contract of Sale: Create a Deed of Sale or Contract of Sale that includes essential details, such as the complete information of the buyer and seller, the vehicle’s description (make, model, year, color, VIN), the purchase price, and the terms and conditions of the sale. This document should be notarized by a notary public.

4. Visit the Land Transportation Office (LTO): Both the seller (previous owner) and the buyer (new owner) should visit the nearest LTO District Office or Satellite Office. Bring the following documents:

2. Pay Any Outstanding Obligations: Clear any outstanding obligations associated with the vehicle, such as unpaid taxes, fines, or penalties. Ensure that the vehicle has updated registration and is free from any encumbrances.

3. Execute the Deed of Sale or Contract of Sale: Create a Deed of Sale or Contract of Sale that includes essential details, such as the complete information of the buyer and seller, the vehicle’s description (make, model, year, color, VIN), the purchase price, and the terms and conditions of the sale. This document should be notarized by a notary public.

4. Visit the Land Transportation Office (LTO): Both the seller (previous owner) and the buyer (new owner) should visit the nearest LTO District Office or Satellite Office. Bring the following documents:

Original CR and OR of the vehicle
Original copies of the buyer's valid IDs
Notarized Deed of Sale or Contract of Sale

5. Submit the Documents and Pay Fees: Present the required documents to the LTO personnel. Pay the necessary fees, such as transfer fees, documentary stamp taxes, and other applicable charges.

6. Verification and Processing: The LTO will verify the documents, conduct an inspection (if necessary), and process the transfer of ownership. They may issue a new CR and OR under the new owner’s name.

7. Claim the New Certificate of Registration (CR) and Official Receipt (OR): Once the transfer of ownership is processed, the new owner can claim the new CR and OR documents from the LTO. These documents serve as proof of ownership and vehicle registration.

What warranty and liability includes a Car Purchase Contract?

A Car Purchase agreement in the Philippines typically includes warranty and liability provisions tailored to the agreement between the buyer and seller. These provisions may encompass the warranty of title, ensuring the seller’s ownership rights, and a warranty of condition, guaranteeing the vehicle’s good working condition. The contract may outline the seller’s liability for disclosed issues or defects, protecting the buyer from problems arising shortly after the purchase. Additionally, it may contain an exclusion of warranty clause, stating that the vehicle is sold “as is” or “without warranty,” and a limitation of liability provision to define the extent of the seller’s responsibility for any damages or losses. It is crucial for both parties to review and negotiate these provisions, seeking legal advice to ensure their adequacy and compliance with relevant Philippine laws.

How can disputes be resolved in the Car Purchase Contract?

In a Car Purchase Contract in the Philippines, dispute resolution mechanisms can be incorporated to provide a structured approach for resolving conflicts between the buyer and seller. These mechanisms commonly include mediation, arbitration, or litigation. Mediation involves a neutral third party facilitating discussions to assist the parties in reaching a mutually acceptable resolution. If mediation fails or is not preferred, arbitration can be pursued, where impartial arbitrators make a binding decision based on presented evidence. Alternatively, litigation can be chosen, involving the court system and a judge or jury making a final determination. It is advisable to consult with a legal professional when drafting or reviewing the Car Purchase agreement to ensure that the dispute resolution clauses comply with local laws and establish a fair and efficient process for resolving conflicts.

Share information

Why Themis Partner ?

Make documents forhundreds of purposes

Hundreds of documents

Instant access to our entire library of documents for Philippines.

24/7 legal support

Free legal advice from our network of qualified lawyers.

Easily customized

Editable Word documents, unlimited revisions and copies.

Legal and Reliable

Documents written by lawyers that you can use with confidence.

DOWNLOAD NOW