Vehicle Repossession Laws in New York (UCC Article 9)

Key Provisions

1. Default – Missed payments trigger repossession rights.
2. Notice of Default – Lender must send written notice stating amount due, cure deadline, and repossession warning.
3. Right to Cure – Borrower can pay within the notice period to stop repossession.
4. Self-Help Repossession – Allowed without court order if done without breaching the peace (no force, no unauthorized private property entry).
5. Court Order – Required if vehicle hidden or ownership disputed.
6. Redemption – Borrower may reclaim by paying full debt + costs before sale.
7. Sale – If not redeemed, lender sells; proceeds cover debt, surplus returned to borrower.

Laws can change; consult an attorney for current advice.