A lender can repossess a vehicle after default. Default usually means missing one or more payments, failing to maintain required insurance, or breaking another key loan term. Utah lenders do not have to warn you before sending a repo agent, but they must follow the law while taking the vehicle.

You are in default once you pass the contract’s grace period. Late notices may arrive, but repossession can proceed without one if your agreement allows it.

Repo agents may take a car parked in an open, public, or accessible area such as a driveway or street. They cannot:

• Break into a locked garage or fenced area
• Use force or threats
• Damage property in the process

These actions count as a breach of the peace under Utah law and make the repossession unlawful. You may have grounds for a complaint or civil claim against the lender or repo company.

• Notice. The lender must send a post-repossession notice explaining next steps and how to get your car back.
• Redemption. You can redeem the car by paying the full balance plus costs before it is sold.
• Reinstatement. Some lenders allow you to catch up missed payments plus fees and reinstate the loan.
• Personal property. You can recover items left in the vehicle. Repo agents cannot keep or sell them.
• Auction notice and deficiency. If the car is sold, the lender must give sale notice. You may still owe a deficiency balance. You can dispute it if the sale was unfair or below market value.

• Stay calm and avoid confrontation. Do not block or threaten repo agents.
• Contact your lender at once. Ask for a written reinstatement or redemption quote.
• Collect personal items. Request access to remove belongings.
• Request all notices in writing. Keep copies of letters, sale notices, and statements.
• If it seems unlawful, file a complaint with the Utah Division of Consumer Protection or consult a Utah consumer rights attorney.

You will receive a notice with sale details and any remaining balance. If the lender did not follow proper procedures, it may lose the right to collect the deficiency or owe you damages. Check whether the sale met Utah’s commercial reasonableness standards under the UCC.