Aug 1, 2024
Auto repossessions may not be a leading economic indicator, but they can act as a thermometer for how Americans are coping with the cost of living.
A growing number of drivers seem to be unable to keep up with their auto loan payments. Car repossessions have spiked 23% since last year, and are 14% higher than pre-pandemic levels, according to CNBC, citing a report by Cox Automotive. The rise in repossessions is a signal that individuals are struggling with debt, as they normally occur when a driver is several months behind on their car payments.
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Car loans can be a significant weight on a household’s finances. The average interest rate for a new-vehicle loan was 7.3% in the second quarter of 2024, while the average monthly auto loan payment for a new car reached an all-time high of $740, according to Edmunds. It was the sixth consecutive quarter new-vehicle loan rates averaged above 7%. In addition, the share of consumers taking on loans exceeding $1,000 per month was 17.8%.
“Most Americans can’t buy their cars with cash, and increased borrowing costs continue to be a major roadblock when buying a new vehicle,” Edmunds head of insights Jessica Caldwell said in a July press release.
Reasons for repossessions
Affordability plays a major role in falling behind on car payments, but additional factors may be at play:
Economic pressures: Lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have left many households financially unstable. Despite economic recovery efforts, inflation and rising living costs have eroded disposable incomes, making it harder for people to keep up with their car payments.
High auto loan interest rates: Interest rates on auto loans have remained elevated, driven by broader economic policies aimed at controlling inflation. Higher interest rates mean higher monthly payments, which can strain budgets that are already stretched thin.
Increased car prices: The prices of new and used cars have soared due to supply chain disruptions and increased demand. This has led to larger loan amounts and subsequently higher monthly payments.
Subprime borrowers: You’ve heard of subprime home loans, but there’s a bustling market for subprime auto loans, too. Borrowers of these loans are at a higher risk of default due to their precarious financial situations.
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Avoiding repossession
There are steps individuals can take to help them from falling behind on their auto loans.
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One can be to regularly review your income and expenses to ensure that your budget is realistic and accounts for all necessary payments, including your car loan. Building an emergency fund can cover unexpected expenses and act as a buffer if you encounter financial difficulties, helping you stay on track with your car payments.
Before repossession hits, consider refinancing your vehicle loan. If you have improved your credit score since taking out your loan, you might qualify for a lower interest rate. Refinancing can reduce your monthly payments and make them more manageable. Additionally, extending the term of your loan can also lower your monthly payments, but be careful: this would tack on more interest over the life of the loan.
Also consider these moves:
Talk to your lender: If you anticipate trouble making a payment, contact your lender immediately. Many lenders offer hardship programs that can temporarily reduce or defer payments. You may also want to consider loan modifications with your lender, which could result in adjusting the terms of your loan to help you avoid default.
Raise your credit score: Ensure all your bills, including credit cards and utilities, are paid on time. A better credit score can lead to better loan terms and manageable car payments. Work on reducing other debts to improve your overall financial health and creditworthiness.
Consider downsizing: As a last resort, if your car payment is unmanageable, consider selling your vehicle and purchasing a less expensive one, or consider using available public transportation options.
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Chris Clark is a Kansas City–based freelance contributor for Moneywise, where he writes about the real financial choices facing everyday Americans—from saving for retirement to navigating housing and debt.
