Trying to reinstate or redeem your auto loan typically has to happen within a short time period, such as about two weeks, so you could have your car back soon after it's repossessed. You may have to wait longer, perhaps several months, if the car is sold at auction due to the time of the auction process.
Generally speaking, under California law your son has 20 days to cure the default after the notice of his right to reinstate the loan was mailed (or 15 days if mailed within the State). The right to reinstate, however, is limited to once per 12 month period, and twice during the entire term of the loan.
Identify yourself and your vehicle. Be sure to include an account number so that your lender can match your letter to your records. Explain that you're unable to make payments and intend to surrender the car. Provide contact information so that your lender can reach you.
Dear Borrower Name: You are hereby notified that your description of motor vehicle, year, make, model and VIN #, was lawfully repossessed on Date because you defaulted on your loan with Credit Union Name. The vehicle is being held at location address of vehicle. be sold at public sale.
You are hereby notified that your description of motor vehicle, year, make, model and VIN #, was lawfully repossessed on Date because you defaulted on your loan with Credit Union Name. The vehicle is being held at location address of vehicle. be sold at public sale. A sale could include a lease or license.
If the repo company can't repossess the car without breaching the peace, then the lender can go to court and go through the replevin process. The lender is basically taking you to court to make you hand over the car. If you lose the court case, then you have to return the car by the scheduled date.