When you fall behind on your car payments, the lender may attempt to repossess the vehicle. However, the legality of hiding your car to avoid repossession depends on the laws in your state.
State Laws Vary on Hiding Vehicles from Repossession
In most states, simply hiding or locking up your car to buy yourself more time to pay off the loan is not necessarily illegal, as long as you don’t do it with the intent to defraud the bank. The repossession company still has the right to come and take the car, but you’re not breaking any laws by making it harder for them to find.
However, some states do consider deliberately hiding a car from the repossession company to be a criminal act. For example, in Texas, it’s a Class A misdemeanor to hide, remove, or transfer a vehicle with the intent to hinder the repossession process. Similarly, in California, concealing a vehicle from a repossession agent can result in fines or even jail time.
Understand Your Rights and Obligations
Before you consider hiding your car, it’s important to understand your rights and obligations under the law in your state. Consult with a local attorney or consumer protection organization to learn about the specific repossession laws in your area. They can advise you on the best course of action to protect your rights and avoid any legal consequences.