Home › Answers › What happens if my car gets repossessed in Florida and how do I stop it?
Repossession in Florida happens when you fall behind on car payments, and the lender has the legal right to take the vehicle without warning in most cases. Once repossessed, the car is typically sold at auction, and you're responsible for the difference between what it sells for and what you owe (called a deficiency). Florida law does require lenders to notify you before repossession, but they don't need a court order—they just need to avoid a breach of peace. The best way to stop repossession is to contact your lender immediately when you know you'll miss a payment; many will work out a payment plan, loan modification, or forbearance agreement rather than go through the expense of repossession. If repossession has already happened, your options are limited but real. You can try to redeem the vehicle by paying the full loan balance plus repossession costs before the lender sells it, or you can work with the lender to reinstate the loan. After repossession, the damage to your credit is severe, but it's not permanent—rebuilding takes time and consistent on-time payments on new credit. If you're facing repossession or have already gone through it and need reliable transportation, Elite Edge specializes in approvals for buyers rebuilding credit after repos and other setbacks. We shop multiple lenders who work with this situation and can often find $0-down options. Call or text us at (954) 907-2386 or use the 60-second Pre-Qualify at eliteedgeautobroker.com/PreQualify to see what's possible.
Can I get my repossessed car back in Florida?
Yes, if you pay the full loan balance plus repossession and storage fees before the lender auctions it, typically within 10-30 days. After auction, it's gone and you're liable for any deficiency judgment.
Will repossession show up on my credit report?
Yes, repossession stays on your credit report for seven years and significantly damages your score, but the impact lessens over time as you make on-time payments on new accounts.
What if I can't afford the car anymore—should I just let it get repossessed?
No; voluntary surrender is slightly better for your credit than involuntary repossession, but both are serious. Contact your lender first to explore payment plans or selling the car yourself to avoid deficiency debt.
By sending you agree Elite Edge may call/text/WhatsApp you. Msg rates may apply.