If you’ve fallen three months behind on your car payments, you’re not alone, and there are options to help you get back on track. Whether it’s due to a sudden financial hardship or a budgeting misstep, missing car payments can feel overwhelming. However, taking the right steps may help you avoid repossession, reduce financial strain and regain control of your finances. This article covers essential strategies for those behind on car payments—whether it’s three months or even twelve—and explores both proactive and reactive measures.
The Consequences of Falling Behind on Payments
Repossession Timeline
Most lenders will start repossession procedures after 90 days of non-payment, although some states and lenders may act even faster. Modern lenders might use GPS or remote disabling technology to prevent you from driving the vehicle until payments are made. It’s crucial to understand that repossession damages your credit and could leave you without reliable transportation.
Legal and Financial Repercussions
After repossession, the lender will likely auction the vehicle to recover their losses. If the auction sale doesn’t cover the full loan amount, you may still be responsible for the balance, known as a deficiency. Some lenders may sue for this remaining amount, adding court fees and collection costs to your debt burden.
What to Do When You’re 3 Months Behind on Car Payments
Contact Your Lender Early
As soon as you know that you’re struggling to make payments, contact your lender. Many lenders offer hardship programs, especially if you proactively reach out. Adjusting the payment schedule, such as shifting due dates or splitting payments into smaller bi-weekly installments, may provide temporary relief. A written record of any new agreement with your lender is essential.
Explore Loan Deferrals or Forbearance Options
Some lenders offer temporary loan deferrals, allowing you to pause payments for a few months. However, deferrals are not a cancellation of your debt—interest still accrues, and the loan term will likely be extended. Deferral may be a helpful short-term solution if you’re facing unexpected expenses like medical bills or job loss, but it’s not sustainable in the long run.
Refinance Your Auto Loan
If high monthly payments are causing issues, refinancing your loan might help by lowering the interest rate or extending the repayment term. While refinancing may reduce your immediate financial burden, it often means paying more interest over the life of the loan. Ensure that refinancing aligns with your long-term financial plans before proceeding.
Consider Selling the Car or Voluntary Repossession
If the car payment has become unaffordable, selling the vehicle may allow you to pay off the loan without harming your credit further. In some cases, a voluntary repossession—where you return the vehicle to the lender—might be a last resort. While voluntary repossession will still damage your credit, it may appear slightly better to future lenders compared to forced repossession.
Managing Extreme Cases: 12 Months Behind on Car Payments
When you fall behind by a year or more, the situation becomes more complicated. Lenders are likely to have already repossessed the vehicle by this point, but you may still face serious financial consequences.
- Rebuilding Credit After Default: Once repossession is reported, your credit takes a hit, but you may rebuild it by making timely payments on other accounts and limiting new debt.
- Debt Collection or Legal Action: If your loan deficiency remains unpaid, the lender may initiate a lawsuit to recover the balance, leading to wage garnishment or liens on property.
- Debt Settlement Options: In some cases, negotiating a settlement to pay a portion of the debt may be possible, especially if the lender believes full repayment is unlikely.
Proactive Steps to Stay Ahead of Future Payments
Create a Budget to Avoid Missed Payments
A budget may help ensure that your car payment fits within your financial means. Financial experts recommend keeping total car expenses—payments, insurance and maintenance—below 20% of your take-home pay. A budget allows you to identify unnecessary expenses and redirect those funds toward your auto loan.
Use Payment Alerts and Autopay Options
Setting up reminders or using autopay may prevent missed payments. Aligning your payment dates with your paycheck schedule ensures you have sufficient funds available when payments are due.
Build an Emergency Savings Fund
An emergency fund acts as a financial buffer, allowing you to continue making car payments during temporary hardships such as job loss or medical emergencies. Aim to save at least three to six months of essential expenses in this fund.
Falling behind on car payments can be stressful, but it’s important to know that you have options. Whether you’re three months or even twelve months behind, staying in communication with your lender and considering alternatives like refinancing or payment deferrals may help. If repossession becomes inevitable, focus on rebuilding your financial stability and exploring debt relief options.
By taking proactive steps, such as improving your budgeting and saving practices, you may avoid future payment issues and work toward long-term financial security. With the right strategies and planning, you may regain control of your finances and avoid the worst consequences of missed car payments.
