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How Loan Terms Affect Negative Equity in Auto Financing

Introduction When purchasing a car on finance, many buyers focus primarily on the sticker price and monthly payments. However, the terms of the loan, especially its duration, play a crucial role in determining whether a buyer might face negative equity. The recent Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) report provides valuable

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Consumer Auto Loan Negative Equity Status 2019 v 2020

What is Negative Equity when it comes to an Auto Loan?

Negative Equity also called “Upside down”,  is a situation that occurs when a consumer owes more on his vehicle’s loan than the vehicle is worth. 

Example:

2018 Honda Accord

Actual Cash Value = $18,500

Balance Owed on Loan = $21,000

Equity = – $2,500 (Negative)

The average negative equity on vehicle trades has been rising steadily for years, reaching a record high in April 2020 at $5,035. This is due in-part to very long finance terms (60 month, 72 months and 84 months).

Negative Equity Comparison 2019 V 2020

The table below shows the average negative equity amount as recorded by dealers at the time of trade-in. 

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