Law Offices of Robert P. Cocco

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Law Offices of Robert P. Cocco, P.C.

Carvana Repossession & Title Problems

Know Your Rights in Pennsylvania

Online car dealer Carvana advertises a seamless buying experience, yet some customers have found the process anything but smooth. In one publicized instance, a Maryland man’s SUV was repossessed after he stopped making payments because Carvana never provided him with permanent registration to his vehicle. He had received only temporary tags from another state, could not legally drive or insure the vehicle, and was repeatedly ticketed for expired tags. Even after sending new paperwork as requested, he never received a title, and a tow truck eventually took the car away.

How Title Delays Can Lead to Repossession

Repossession usually occurs when a borrower defaults on the auto loan. With Carvana, some buyers have reported a different scenario: they stop paying after months without a title or legal registration, only to have the car repossessed. Driving with expired or outofstate tags can lead to tickets, fines, and impoundment by local governments or housing associations; refusing to drive an unregistered vehicle can trigger default and repossession.

When Repossession Crosses the Line

Lenders and their agents must follow strict rules when repossessing a vehicle. Under Article 9 of the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC), creditors must provide proper pre and postsale notices and conduct a “commercially reasonable” sale; defects can bar or reduce any claimed deficiency balance. Self-help repossession is allowed only if it does not breach the peace; consumers should document any threats, forced entry, or harassment when collectors cross the line. If your car is taken, the creditor must allow you to retrieve personal property and must not keep or sell your belongings. These protections apply whether the repossession is carried out by Carvana’s servicing arm Bridgecrest or by a third party debt collector.

Steps to Protect Yourself

  1. Document Everything – Keep copies of your purchase agreement, temporary tags, emails and any letter or email notices from Carvana or Bridgecrest. Note dates when you contacted Carvana and the responses you received.
  2. Demand Proof of the Lien and Balance – Under the UCC, you have the right to see the loan documents and an itemized account of what you owe.
  3. Check Your Credit Report – Ensure Carvana or its servicing arm Bridgecrest has not reported false information. Dispute any errors under the FCRA.

How We Can Help

At the Law Offices of Robert P. Cocco, P.C., we have more than two decades of experience advocating for consumers harmed by unfair and deceptive corporate practices. Our firm handles cases involving auto dealer fraud, title and registration delays, wrongful repossession, credit reporting errors and debtcollection harassment. We understand the interplay of the FCRA, FDCPA, TILA and state consumer protection laws and will pursue compensation and statutory damages on your behalf. Most cases are handled on a contingency fee basis—meaning you pay nothing unless we recover for you.

If Carvana and/or Bridgcrest has repossessed your car or left you without a valid title or registration, contact us today for a free consultation. We will review your case, explain your rights and help you take steps to protect your financial future. Call (215) 3510200 or visit our Philadelphia office to get started.

Call for a free Consultation!