Repossessions
What is a repossession?
When you bought the vehicle you got a loan. The security for the loan is the vehicle. Under the contract if there is a default in the payments the lender has the right to take possession of the vehicle.
When financing fails on a purchase
Buyers often get what is called seller-assisted financing. Frequently they do so without ever knowing what they are getting or what they have agreed to. Then weeks or even months after the purchase the dealer calls telling them the financing did not go through and they have to bring back the vehicle.
California Repossession Law
As a general rule, you have far more rights with a sale than with a lease.
What happens after the car is taken?
California law requires that the consumer be sent a notice either by personal service or by certified mail. It must be sent or delivered to the consumer within 60 days of the repossession.
What is a deficiency judgement?
After repossessing your car in California, the auto finance company is required to send you a letter, called a Notice. If you have received a letter from your Finance Company following a repossession, fax it to us at 858/270-7710, along with your phone number, and we will review it at no charge.
Finance Company Repossessions California
Usually the Finance Company will sell the vehicle at auction for a fraction of what you owe on it. They will then sue you for the balance.