There's no hard and fast rule on how much time you have to get a car back before the lender sells it. Generally speaking, the lender must give you notice that allows a "reasonable time" prior to the sale for you to react and exercise your options. At least ten days' notice is usually considered reasonable.
9 ways to buy repossessed cars Car dealerships. Car dealerships may occasionally offer repossessed cars for sale. Banks and lending institutions. Online auction websites. Local car auctions. Car repossession companies. Government agencies. Online classifieds. Public notices and advertisements.
Once the car is repossessed it is taken to the repo companies storage yard. Once there they are supposed to inventory the items in the car, then removed for storage until you either pick them up or (if you don't) they are disposed of.
You can also use websites like Carfax, Auto Trader, Buy It Now, eBay and CarsDirect. All these websites provide information about repossessed cars.
With replevin, the car lender files a lawsuit seeking an order from the court requiring you to give the car back. If you fail to abide by the court order, you might be subject to both civil and criminal penalties.
No, a repossession agent may not do that. But, if the repossession company can't access your car because it is hidden, blocked, or locked up, your lender goes to court to get a replevin. Replevin is a court order compelling the collection of the vehicle. Repossession and replevin are different processes.
If you can't make your car payments, there are some clear advantages to voluntary surrender compared with involuntary repossession: You can avoid some of the penalties and fees imposed during an involuntary surrender, like towing and storage fees.
Know the Repo Laws of Your State. The first thing to know about how to repo a car is you need to be aware of how repo laws stand within the jurisdictions where you will conduct business. Make Sure the Debtor Is in Default. Locate and Verify the Car. Choose the Method to Repossess. Do Not Breach the Peace.
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.