A repossession stays on your credit reports for up to seven years, regardless of whether it's been redeemed or not. In order to get a redeemed repossession off your credit reports, you need to wait or identity an error regarding the data that you can dispute with the credit bureaus.

If your car gets repossessed, you have three main ways of getting it back: reinstating the loan, redeeming the vehicle, or buying it back at auction. If it's allowed in your state, keep reading to find out how to reinstate an auto loan after repossession.

Getting an auto loan with bad credit and a repossession on your credit reports isn't always easy. Luckily, there are lenders out there who specialize in working with car buyers with less than perfect credit, and we can help you find them.

Trying to avoid repossession by hiding your car is like filling your gas tank with water to make it run – it doesn't work. The lender is going to find your vehicle, and the repo is going to cost you more if you try to do this. Instead of trying to hide your car, let's look at some actual options for avoiding repossession.

Repossession has a negative impact on your credit score and it stays on your credit reports for seven years, but the effects lessen over time. Once enough time has passed, it's possible to get an auto loan after repossession – as long as you're working with the right type of lender.

Once your car gets repossessed, you can attempt to get it back or let the lender sell it at auction and pay any remaining debt. If you decide you want your vehicle back, you have two main options to pursue.

You may be able to stop a repossession from happening if you talk to your lender and explain your situation. Even if they can't help, you have three options to consider.

A car repossession drops your credit score, but how much it affects your credit depends on the current state of your credit.

While it's much easier to prevent a repossession ahead of time, you may be able to get your car back even after it's been repossessed with these options.

Your wages can be garnished after repossession as a last resort option for a lender, but only if the car was sold or auctioned for less than the amount you owe on your loan, creating a deficiency balance.