CFPB Finds Increase in Risk for Long-term Auto Loans:

November 1, 2017

On Wednesday, November 1, 2017, the CFPB released a report on auto loan trends that shows an increase in riskier longer-term auto loans. According to the report, 42 percent of auto loans made in the last year carried a payback term of six years or more, compared to just 26 percent in 2009. The growth of these longer-term loans has largely come at the expense of five-year loans, which declined over the same period. The CFPB found that six-year auto loans are riskier, cost more, are used by consumers with lower credit scores to finance larger amounts, and have higher rates of default.

 

“The move to longer-term auto loans is opening up more risk for consumers,” said CFPB Director Richard Cordray. “These loans are more expensive and can result in consumers continuing to owe even after they are no longer driving their car. Consumers should know before they owe and shop for the best deal based on costs incurred over the life of the loan.”