I asked a guy at the local DMV and he told me how to do it according to TN law.

I have to run an ad in the local paper like they do with bankruptcy's/foreclosures and if nobody responds in 30 or 60 days I bring the ad and a rubbing of the VIN to him and he issues a new title.

Many states have a system to get a title for abandoned cars but few people know or use them.

I would contact the local DMV by talking to the director in person. Nobody will ever help on the phone from what I have seen.

Also you should be able to have a shop file for a mechanics lien-title for non payment for repairs in many states.

Hope it helps.