Automobile Sales Finance Act - Lien - CA Civil Law

Section § 2981

This section defines key terms related to conditional sale contracts for motor vehicles. A 'conditional sale contract' involves a buyer taking possession of a vehicle but only owning it after fulfilling all payment or conditions, or the seller retaining a lien as security. The section explains who the parties involved are, like the buyer and seller, and describes important financial terms such as 'cash price', 'downpayment', 'finance charge', and 'amount financed'. It also specifies different basis calculations for finance charges, like 'simple-interest' and 'precomputed'. 'Surface protection products' and 'theft deterrent devices' are products installed post-sale, enhancing vehicle durability or security. A 'guaranteed asset protection waiver' is an opt-in offer for canceling due payments if the car is lost or stolen.

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires:

(a) “Conditional sale contract” means:

(1) A contract for the sale of a motor vehicle between a buyer and a seller, with or without accessories, under which possession is delivered to the buyer and either of the following:

(A) The title vests in the buyer thereafter only upon the payment of all or a part of the price, or the performance of any other condition.

(B) A lien on the property is to vest in the seller as security for the payment of part or all of the price, or for the performance of any other condition.

(2) A contract for the bailment of a motor vehicle between a buyer and a seller, with or without accessories, by which the bailee or lessee agrees to pay as compensation for use a sum substantially equivalent to or in excess of the aggregate value of the vehicle and its accessories, if any, at the time the contract is executed, and by which it is agreed that the bailee or lessee will become, or for no other or for a nominal consideration has the option of becoming, the owner of the vehicle upon full compliance with the terms of the contract.

(b) “Seller” means a person engaged in the business of selling or leasing motor vehicles under conditional sale contracts.

(d) “Person” includes an individual, company, firm, association, partnership, trust, corporation, limited liability company, or other legal entity.

(e) “Holder” means the person entitled to enforce the conditional sale contract against the buyer at the time.

(f) “Cash price” means the amount for which the seller would sell and transfer to the buyer unqualified title to the motor vehicle described in the conditional sale contract, if the property were sold for cash at the seller’s place of business on the date the contract is executed, and shall include taxes to the extent imposed on the cash sale and the cash price of accessories or services related to the sale, including, but not limited to, delivery, installation, alterations, modifications, improvements, document preparation fees, a service contract, a vehicle contract cancellation option agreement, and payment of a prior credit or lease balance remaining on property being traded in.

(g) “Downpayment” means a payment that the buyer pays or agrees to pay to the seller in cash or property value or money’s worth at or prior to delivery by the seller to the buyer of the motor vehicle described in the conditional sale contract. The term shall also include the amount of any portion of the downpayment the payment of which is deferred until not later than the due date of the second otherwise scheduled payment, if the amount of the deferred downpayment is not subject to a finance charge. The term does not include any administrative finance charge charged, received, or collected by the seller as provided in this chapter.

(h) “Amount financed” means the amount required to be disclosed pursuant to paragraph (8) of subdivision (a) of Section 2982.

(i) “Unpaid balance” means the difference between subdivisions (f) and (g), plus all insurance premiums (except for credit life or disability insurance when the amount thereof is included in the finance charge), which are included in the contract balance, and the total amount paid or to be paid as follows:

(1) To a public officer in connection with the transaction.

(2) For license, certificate of title, and registration fees imposed by law, and the amount of the state fee for issuance of a certificate of compliance or certificate of waiver pursuant to Section 9889.56 of the Business and Professions Code.

(j) “Finance charge” has the meaning set forth for that term in Section 226.4 of Regulation Z. The term shall not include delinquency charges or collection costs and fees as provided by subdivision (k) of Section 2982, extension or deferral agreement charges as provided by Section 2982.3, or amounts for insurance, repairs to or preservation of the motor vehicle, or preservation of the security interest therein advanced by the holder under the terms of the contract.

(k) “Total of payments” means the amount required to be disclosed pursuant to subdivision (h) of Section 226.18 of Regulation Z. The term includes any portion of the downpayment that is deferred until not later than the second otherwise scheduled payment and that is not subject to a finance charge. The term shall not include amounts for which the buyer may later become obligated under the terms of the contract in connection with insurance, repairs to or preservation of the motor vehicle, preservation of the security interest therein, or otherwise.

(l) “Motor vehicle” means a vehicle required to be registered under the Vehicle Code that is bought for use primarily for personal or family purposes, and does not mean any vehicle that is bought for use primarily for business or commercial purposes or a mobilehome, as defined in Section 18008 of the Health and Safety Code that is sold on or after July 1, 1981. “Motor vehicle” does not include any trailer that is sold in conjunction with a vessel and that comes within the definition of “goods” under Section 1802.1.

(m) “Purchase order” means a sales order, car reservation, statement of transaction, or any other such instrument used in the conditional sale of a motor vehicle pending execution of a conditional sale contract. The purchase order shall conform to the disclosure requirements of subdivision (a) of Section 2982 and Section 2984.1, and subdivision (m) of Section 2982 shall apply.

(n) “Regulation Z” means a rule, regulation, or interpretation promulgated by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System (“Board”) under the federal Truth in Lending Act, as amended (15 U.S.C. Sec. 1601, et seq.), and an interpretation or approval issued by an official or employee of the Federal Reserve System duly authorized by the board under the Truth in Lending Act, as amended, to issue the interpretations or approvals.

(o) “Simple-interest basis” means the determination of a finance charge, other than an administrative finance charge, by applying a constant rate to the unpaid balance as it changes from time to time either:

(1) Calculated on the basis of a 365-day year and actual days elapsed (although the seller may, but need not, adjust its calculations to account for leap years); reference in this chapter to the “365-day basis” shall mean this method of determining the finance charge, or

(2) For contracts entered into prior to January 1, 1988, calculated on the basis of a 360-day year consisting of 12 months of 30 days each and on the assumption that all payments will be received by the seller on their respective due dates; reference in this chapter to the “360-day basis” shall mean this method of determining the finance charge.

(p) “Precomputed basis” means the determination of a finance charge by multiplying the original unpaid balance of the contract by a rate and multiplying that product by the number of payment periods elapsing between the date of the contract and the date of the last scheduled payment.

(q) “Service contract” means “vehicle service contract” as defined in subdivision (c) of Section 12800 of the Insurance Code.

(r) “Surface protection product” means the following products installed by the seller after the motor vehicle is sold:

(1) Undercoating.

(2) Rustproofing.

(3) Chemical or film paint sealant or protectant.

(4) Chemical sealant or stain inhibitor for carpet and fabric.

(s) “Theft deterrent device” means the following devices installed by the seller after the motor vehicle is sold:

(1) A vehicle alarm system.

(2) A window etch product.

(3) A body part marking product.

(4) A steering lock.

(5) A pedal or ignition lock.

(6) A fuel or ignition kill switch.

(t) “Guaranteed asset protection waiver” means an optional contractual obligation under which a seller agrees, for additional consideration, to cancel or waive all or part of amounts due on the buyer’s conditional sale contract subject to this chapter in the event of a total loss or unrecovered theft of the motor vehicle specified in the conditional sale contract.

conditional sale contract motor vehicle sale seller buyer cash price downpayment finance charge amount financed simple-interest basis precomputed basis surface protection product theft deterrent device guaranteed asset protection waiver

(Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 283, Sec. 1. (AB 2311) Effective January 1, 2023.)

Section § 2981.5

This section explains that if you're leasing a car and the lease contract says you're only responsible for the car's value at the end of the lease, this doesn't mean you automatically have the option to buy the car. It clarifies that such a lease isn't an ownership agreement.

A contract for the bailment or leasing of a motor vehicle, with or without accessories, which establishes the maximum for which a bailee or lessee could be held liable at the end of the lease or bailment period, or upon an earlier termination, by reference to the value of the vehicle at such time, is not a contract by which the bailee or lessee will become or for no other or for a nominal consideration has the option of becoming the owner of the vehicle, for the purposes of paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) of Section 2981 or any other provision of this chapter.

bailment leasing motor vehicle lessee liability lease termination vehicle value bailee responsibility ownership option lease agreement nominal consideration section 2981 lease vs. ownership

(Added by Stats. 1973, Ch. 696.)

Section § 2981.7

This law states that if someone buys something with a contract starting on or after January 1, 1983, and they have more than 62 months to pay it off, the interest they pay must be calculated using a simple-interest method.

All contracts entered into between a buyer and a seller on or after January 1, 1983, shall provide for the calculation of the finance charge contemplated by item (A) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (j) of Section 2982 on the simple-interest basis, if the date on which the final installment is due, according to the original terms of the contract, is more than 62 months after the date of the contract.

buyer and seller contracts simple-interest basis finance charge calculation final installment contracts over 62 months effective from 1983 item (A) calculation long-term payment plans subdivision (j) of Section 2982 original contract terms California civil code installment payment contracts interest calculation method

(Amended by Stats. 1983, Ch. 142, Sec. 3.)

Section § 2981.8

This law states that a contract cannot have a finance charge calculated by using both the precomputed basis and the simple-interest method. There are certain exceptions, which are outlined in another section of the law.

No contract shall provide for a finance charge which is determined in part by the precomputed basis and in part by the simple-interest basis except for any finance charge permitted by subdivisions (a) and (c) of Section 2982.8.

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(Amended by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1380, Sec. 20. Effective October 1, 1980.)

Section § 2981.9

This law requires all conditional sale contracts for motor vehicles to be in writing and printed in at least 6-point font. The contract must include all agreements between the buyer and seller regarding the vehicle's total cost and payment terms. Both parties must sign the contract, and the seller must give the buyer a copy at the time of signing. A vehicle can't be delivered to the buyer until they receive a signed copy of the contract and related documents like credit statements. Additionally, the seller can't have the buyer sign a contract that has blank spaces to be filled in later.

Every conditional sale contract subject to this chapter shall be in writing and, if printed, shall be printed in type no smaller than 6-point, and shall contain in a single document all of the agreements of the buyer and seller with respect to the total cost and the terms of payment for the motor vehicle, including any promissory notes or any other evidences of indebtedness. The conditional sale contract or a purchase order shall be signed by the buyer or his or her authorized representative and by the seller or its authorized representative. An exact copy of the contract or purchase order shall be furnished to the buyer by the seller at the time the buyer and the seller have signed it. No motor vehicle shall be delivered pursuant to a contract subject to this chapter until the seller delivers to the buyer a fully executed copy of the conditional sale contract or purchase order and any vehicle purchase proposal and any credit statement which the seller has required or requested the buyer to sign and which he or she has signed during the contract negotiations. The seller shall not obtain the signature of the buyer to a contract when it contains blank spaces to be filled in after it has been signed.

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(Added by Stats. 1981, Ch. 1075, Sec. 13. Operative October 1, 1982, or sooner, by Sec. 25 of Ch. 1075, as amended by Stats. 1982, Ch. 129, Sec. 12.)

Section § 2982

This law outlines all the crucial details and disclosures that must be included in conditional car sale contracts in California. Dealers must list all costs separately, like the price of extras such as service contracts or theft deterrent systems, taxes, document fees, and any other charges. It also mandates dealers to provide itemized costs of financing, including any insurance, finance charges, and any penalties for paying off a contract early. The law requires specific notices about the terms of the finance, the right to prepay, refund conditions, and what happens if there is a default or early buyout. There are also strict rules about what information must be clearly disclosed to buyers, including whether a car is sold as new or used, and warning them that most car sales aren't subject to a "cooling-off" period for return, unless a specific return option is bought for certain used vehicles. Buyers must also be informed about where to address complaints.

A conditional sale contract subject to this chapter shall contain the disclosures required by Regulation Z, whether or not Regulation Z applies to the transaction. In addition, to the extent applicable, the contract shall contain the other disclosures and notices required by, and shall satisfy the requirements and limitations of, this section. The disclosures required by subdivision (a) may be itemized or subtotaled to a greater extent than as required by that subdivision and shall be made together and in the sequence set forth in that subdivision. All other disclosures and notices may appear in the contract in any location or sequence and may be combined or interspersed with other provisions of the contract.

(a) The contract shall contain the following disclosures, as applicable, which shall be labeled “itemization of the amount financed”:

(1)

(A) The cash price, exclusive of document processing charges, charges to electronically register or transfer the vehicle, taxes imposed on the sale, pollution control certification fees, prior credit or lease balance on property being traded in, the amount charged for a service contract, the amount charged for a theft deterrent system, the amount charged for a surface protection product, the amount charged for an optional debt cancellation agreement or guaranteed asset protection waiver, and the amount charged for a contract cancellation option agreement.

(B) The charge to be retained by the seller for document processing authorized pursuant to Section 4456.5 of the Vehicle Code.

(C) The fee charged by the seller for certifying that the motor vehicle complies with applicable pollution control requirements.

(D) A charge for a theft deterrent device.

(E) A charge for a surface protection product.

(F) The total amount charged by the seller for an electric vehicle charging station, which may include only the charges for the electric vehicle charging station device, any materials and wiring, and any installation services. The total amount shall be labeled “EV Charging Station.”

(G) Taxes imposed on the sale.

(H) The charge to electronically register or transfer the vehicle authorized pursuant to Section 4456.5 of the Vehicle Code.

(I) The amount charged for a service contract.

(J) The prior credit or lease balance remaining on property being traded in, as required by paragraph (6). The disclosure required by this subparagraph shall be labeled “prior credit or lease balance (see downpayment and trade-in calculation).”

(K) Any charge for an optional debt cancellation agreement or guaranteed asset protection waiver.

(L) Any charge for a used vehicle contract cancellation option agreement.

(M) The total cash price, which is the sum of subparagraphs (A) to (L), inclusive.

(N) The disclosures described in subparagraphs (D), (E), and (L) are not required on contracts involving the sale of a motorcycle, as defined in Section 400 of the Vehicle Code, or on contracts involving the sale of an off-highway motor vehicle that is subject to identification under Section 38010 of the Vehicle Code, and the amounts of those charges, if any, are not required to be reflected in the total price under subparagraph (M).

(2) Amounts paid to public officials for the following:

(A) Vehicle license fees.

(B) Registration, transfer, and titling fees.

(3) The aggregate amount of premiums agreed, upon execution of the contract, to be paid for policies of insurance included in the contract, excluding the amount of any insurance premium included in the finance charge.

(4) The amount of the state fee for issuance of a certificate of compliance, noncompliance, exemption, or waiver pursuant to any applicable pollution control statute.

(5) A subtotal representing the sum of the amounts described in paragraphs (1) to (4), inclusive.

(6) The amount of the buyer’s downpayment itemized to show the following:

(A) The agreed value of the property being traded in.

(B) The prior credit or lease balance, if any, owing on the property being traded in.

(C) The net agreed value of the property being traded in, which is the difference between the amounts disclosed in subparagraphs (A) and (B). If the prior credit or lease balance of the property being traded in exceeds the agreed value of the property, a negative number shall be stated.

(D) The amount of any portion of the downpayment to be deferred until not later than the due date of the second regularly scheduled installment under the contract and that is not subject to a finance charge.

(E) The amount of any manufacturer’s rebate applied or to be applied to the downpayment.

(F) The remaining amount paid or to be paid by the buyer as a downpayment.

(G) The total downpayment. If the sum of subparagraphs (C) to (F), inclusive, is zero or more, that sum shall be stated as the total downpayment, and no amount shall be stated as the prior credit or lease balance under subparagraph (I) of paragraph (1). If the sum of subparagraphs (C) to (F), inclusive, is less than zero, then that sum, expressed as a positive number, shall be stated as the prior credit or lease balance under subparagraph (I) of paragraph (1), and zero shall be stated as the total downpayment. The disclosure required by this subparagraph shall be labeled “total downpayment” and shall contain a descriptor indicating that if the total downpayment is a negative number, a zero shall be disclosed as the total downpayment and a reference made that the remainder shall be included in the disclosure required pursuant to subparagraph (I) of paragraph (1).

(7) The amount of any administrative finance charge, labeled “prepaid finance charge.”

(8) The difference between the amount described in paragraph (5) and the sum of the amounts described in paragraphs (6) and (7), labeled “amount financed.”

(b) No particular terminology is required to disclose the items set forth in subdivision (a) except as expressly provided in that subdivision.

(c) If payment of all or a portion of the downpayment is to be deferred, the deferred payment shall be reflected in the payment schedule disclosed pursuant to Regulation Z.

(d) If the downpayment includes property being traded in, the contract shall contain a brief description of that property.

(e) The contract shall contain the names and addresses of all persons to whom the notice required pursuant to Section 2983.2 and permitted pursuant to Sections 2983.5 and 2984 is to be sent.

(f)

(1) If the contract includes a finance charge determined on the precomputed basis, the contract shall identify the method of computing the unearned portion of the finance charge in the event of prepayment in full of the buyer’s obligation and contain a statement of the amount or method of computation of any charge that may be deducted from the amount of any unearned finance charge in computing the amount that will be credited to the obligation or refunded to the buyer. The method of computing the unearned portion of the finance charge shall be sufficiently identified with a reference to the actuarial method if the computation will be under that method. The method of computing the unearned portion of the finance charge shall be sufficiently identified with a reference to the Rule of 78’s, the sum of the digits, or the sum of the periodic time balances method in all other cases, and those references shall be deemed to be equivalent for disclosure purposes.

(2) If the contract includes a finance charge that is determined on the simple-interest basis but provides for a minimum finance charge in the event of prepayment in full, the contract shall contain a statement of that fact and the amount of the minimum finance charge or its method of calculation.

(g)

(1) If the contract includes a finance charge that is determined on the precomputed basis and provides that the unearned portion of the finance charge to be refunded upon full prepayment of the contract is to be determined by a method other than actuarial, the contract shall contain a notice, in at least 10-point boldface type if the contract is printed, reading as follows: “Notice to buyer: (1) Do not sign this agreement before you read it or if it contains any blank spaces to be filled in. (2) You are entitled to a completely filled-in copy of this agreement. (3) You can prepay the full amount due under this agreement at any time and obtain a partial refund of the finance charge if it is $1 or more. Because of the way the amount of this refund will be figured, the time when you prepay could increase the ultimate cost of credit under this agreement. (4) If you default in the performance of your obligations under this agreement, the vehicle may be repossessed and you may be subject to suit and liability for the unpaid indebtedness evidenced by this agreement.”

(2) If the contract includes a finance charge that is determined on the precomputed basis and provides for the actuarial method for computing the unearned portion of the finance charge upon prepayment in full, the contract shall contain a notice, in at least 10-point boldface type if the contract is printed, reading as follows: “Notice to buyer: (1) Do not sign this agreement before you read it or if it contains any blank spaces to be filled in. (2) You are entitled to a completely filled-in copy of this agreement. (3) You can prepay the full amount due under this agreement at any time and obtain a partial refund of the finance charge if it is $1 or more. (4) If you default in the performance of your obligations under this agreement, the vehicle may be repossessed and you may be subject to suit and liability for the unpaid indebtedness evidenced by this agreement.”

(3) If the contract includes a finance charge that is determined on the simple-interest basis, the contract shall contain a notice, in at least 10-point boldface type if the contract is printed, reading as follows: “Notice to buyer: (1) Do not sign this agreement before you read it or if it contains any blank spaces to be filled in. (2) You are entitled to a completely filled-in copy of this agreement. (3) You can prepay the full amount due under this agreement at any time. (4) If you default in the performance of your obligations under this agreement, the vehicle may be repossessed and you may be subject to suit and liability for the unpaid indebtedness evidenced by this agreement.”

(h) The contract shall contain a notice in at least 8-point boldface type, acknowledged by the buyer, that reads as follows:

“If you have a complaint concerning this sale, you should try to resolve it with the seller.

Complaints concerning unfair or deceptive practices or methods by the seller may be referred to the city attorney, the district attorney, or an investigator for the Department of Motor Vehicles, or any combination thereof.

After this contract is signed, the seller may not change the financing or payment terms unless you agree in writing to the change. You do not have to agree to any change, and it is an unfair or deceptive practice for the seller to make a unilateral change.

Buyer’s Signature”

(i)

(1) The contract shall contain an itemization of any insurance included as part of the amount financed disclosed pursuant to paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) and of any insurance included as part of the finance charge. The itemization shall identify the type of insurance coverage and the premium charged therefor, and, if the insurance expires before the date of the last scheduled installment included in the repayment schedule, the term of the insurance shall be stated.

(2) If any charge for insurance, other than for credit life or disability, is included in the contract balance and disbursement of any part thereof is to be made more than one year after the date of the conditional sale contract, any finance charge on the amount to be disbursed after one year shall be computed from the month the disbursement is to be made to the due date of the last installment under the conditional sale contract.

(j)

(1) Except for contracts in which the finance charge or a portion of the finance charge is determined by the simple-interest basis and the amount financed disclosed pursuant to paragraph (8) of subdivision (a) is more than two thousand five hundred dollars ($2,500), the dollar amount of the disclosed finance charge may not exceed the greater of:

(A)

(i) One and one-half percent on so much of the unpaid balance as does not exceed two hundred twenty-five dollars ($225), 1¹/₆ percent on so much of the unpaid balance in excess of two hundred twenty-five dollars ($225) as does not exceed nine hundred dollars ($900) and five-sixths of 1 percent on so much of the unpaid balance in excess of nine hundred dollars ($900) as does not exceed two thousand five hundred dollars ($2,500).

(ii) One percent of the entire unpaid balance; multiplied in either case by the number of months (computed on the basis of a full month for any fractional month period in excess of 15 days) elapsing between the date of the contract and the due date of the last installment.

(B) If the finance charge is determined by the precomputed basis, twenty-five dollars ($25).

(i) Twenty-five dollars ($25) if the unpaid balance does not exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000).

(ii) Fifty dollars ($50) if the unpaid balance exceeds one thousand dollars ($1,000) but does not exceed two thousand dollars ($2,000).

(iii) Seventy-five dollars ($75) if the unpaid balance exceeds two thousand dollars ($2,000).

(2) The holder of the contract shall not charge, collect, or receive a finance charge that exceeds the disclosed finance charge, except to the extent (A) caused by the holder’s receipt of one or more payments under a contract that provides for determination of the finance charge or a portion thereof on the 365-day basis at a time or times other than as originally scheduled whether or not the parties enter into an agreement pursuant to Section 2982.3, (B) permitted by paragraph (2), (3), or (4) of subdivision (c) of Section 226.17 of Regulation Z, or (C) permitted by subdivisions (a) and (c) of Section 2982.8.

(3) If the finance charge or a portion thereof is determined by the simple-interest basis and the amount of the unpaid balance exceeds five thousand dollars ($5,000), the holder of the contract may, in lieu of its right to a minimum finance charge under subparagraph (C) of paragraph (1), charge, receive, or collect on the date of the contract an administrative finance charge not to exceed seventy-five dollars ($75), provided that the sum of the administrative finance charge and the portion of the finance charge determined by the simple-interest basis shall not exceed the maximum total finance charge permitted by subparagraph (A) of paragraph (1). Any administrative finance charge that is charged, received, or collected by a holder shall be deemed a finance charge earned on the date of the contract.

(4) If a contract provides for unequal or irregular payments, or payments on other than a monthly basis, the maximum finance charge shall be at the effective rate provided for in paragraph (1), having due regard for the schedule of installments.

(k) The contract may provide that for each installment in default for a period of not less than 10 days the buyer shall pay a delinquency charge in an amount not to exceed in the aggregate 5 percent of the delinquent installment, which amount may be collected only once on any installment regardless of the period during which it remains in default. Payments timely received by the seller under an extension or deferral agreement may not be subject to a delinquency charge unless the charge is permitted by Section 2982.3. The contract may provide for reasonable collection costs and fees in the event of delinquency.

(l) Notwithstanding any provision of a contract to the contrary, the buyer may pay at any time before maturity the entire indebtedness evidenced by the contract without penalty. In the event of prepayment in full:

(1) If the finance charge was determined on the precomputed basis, the amount required to prepay the contract shall be the outstanding contract balance as of that date, provided, however, that the buyer shall be entitled to a refund credit in the amount of the unearned portion of the finance charge, except as provided in paragraphs (3) and (4). The amount of the unearned portion of the finance charge shall be at least as great a proportion of the finance charge, including any additional finance charge imposed pursuant to Section 2982.8 or other additional charge imposed because the contract has been extended, deferred, or refinanced, as the sum of the periodic monthly time balances payable more than 15 days after the date of prepayment bears to the sum of all the periodic monthly time balances under the schedule of installments in the contract or, if the contract has been extended, deferred, or refinanced, as so extended, deferred, or refinanced. If the amount of the refund credit is less than one dollar ($1), no refund credit need be made by the holder. Any refund credit may be made in cash or credited to the outstanding obligations of the buyer under the contract.

(2) If the finance charge or a portion of the finance charge was determined on the simple-interest basis, the amount required to prepay the contract shall be the outstanding contract balance as of that date, including any earned finance charges that are unpaid as of that date and, if applicable, the amount provided in paragraph (3), and provided further that in cases where a finance charge is determined on the 360-day basis, the payments received under the contract shall be assumed to have been received on their respective due dates regardless of the actual dates on which the payments were received.

(3) If the minimum finance charge provided by subparagraph (B) or subparagraph (C) of paragraph (1) of subdivision (j), if either is applicable, is greater than the earned finance charge as of the date of prepayment, the holder shall be additionally entitled to the difference.

(4) This subdivision shall not impair the right of the seller or the seller’s assignee to receive delinquency charges on delinquent installments and reasonable costs and fees as provided in subdivision (k) or extension or deferral agreement charges as provided in Section 2982.3.

(5) Notwithstanding any provision of a contract to the contrary, if the indebtedness created by any contract is satisfied prior to its maturity through surrender of the motor vehicle, repossession of the motor vehicle, redemption of the motor vehicle after repossession, or any judgment, the outstanding obligation of the buyer shall be determined as provided in paragraph (1) or (2), except that the buyer’s outstanding obligation shall be computed by the holder as of the date the holder recovers the value of the motor vehicle through disposition thereof or judgment is entered or, if the holder elects to keep the motor vehicle in satisfaction of the buyer’s indebtedness, as of the date the holder takes possession of the motor vehicle.

(m) Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter to the contrary, any information required to be disclosed in a conditional sale contract under this chapter may be disclosed in any manner, method, or terminology required or permitted under Regulation Z, as in effect at the time that disclosure is made, except that permitted by paragraph (2) of subdivision (c) of Section 226.18 of Regulation Z, if all of the requirements and limitations set forth in subdivision (a) are satisfied. This chapter does not prohibit the disclosure in that contract of additional information required or permitted under Regulation Z, as in effect at the time that disclosure is made.

(n) If the seller imposes a charge for document processing or to electronically register or transfer the vehicle, the contract shall contain a disclosure that the charge is not a governmental fee.

(o) A seller shall not impose an application fee for a transaction governed by this chapter.

(p) The seller or holder may charge and collect a fee not to exceed fifteen dollars ($15) for the return by a depository institution of a dishonored check, negotiated order of withdrawal, or share draft issued in connection with the contract if the contract so provides or if the contract contains a generalized statement that the buyer may be liable for collection costs incurred in connection with the contract.

(q) The contract shall disclose on its face, by printing the word “new” or “used” within a box outlined in red, that is not smaller than one-half inch high and one-half inch wide, whether the vehicle is sold as a new vehicle, as defined in Section 430 of the Vehicle Code, or as a used vehicle, as defined in Section 665 of the Vehicle Code.

(r) The contract shall contain a notice with a heading in at least 12-point bold type and the text in at least 10-point bold type, circumscribed by a line, immediately above the contract signature line, that reads as follows:

THERE IS NO COOLING-OFF PERIOD UNLESS YOU
OBTAIN A CONTRACT CANCELLATION OPTION

California law does not provide for a “cooling-off” or other cancellation period for vehicle sales. Therefore, you cannot later cancel this contract simply because you change your mind, decide the vehicle costs too much, or wish you had acquired a different vehicle. After you sign below, you may only cancel this contract with the agreement of the seller or for legal cause, such as fraud.
However, California law does require a seller to offer a two-day contract cancellation option on used vehicles with a purchase price of less than forty thousand dollars ($40,000), subject to certain statutory conditions. This contract cancellation option requirement does not apply to the sale of a recreational vehicle, a motorcycle, or an off-highway motor vehicle subject to identification under California law. See the vehicle contract cancellation option agreement for details.

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(Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 478, Sec. 7. (AB 1756) Effective January 1, 2024.)

Section § 2982.1

This law makes it illegal for sellers to entice someone into a contract by promising a rebate or discount that depends on a future event, like the buyer helping the seller make more sales.

It shall be unlawful for any seller to induce or attempt to induce any person to enter into a contract subject to this chapter by offering a rebate, discount, commission, or other consideration, contingent upon the happening of a future event, on the condition that the buyer either sells, or gives information or assistance for the purpose of leading to a sale by the seller of, the same or related goods.

seller inducement rebate offer future event conditional discount buyer participation contract illegal sales tactic related goods commission promise information assistance unlawful selling practices California consumer protection sales contract conditions

(Added by Stats. 1968, Ch. 452.)

Section § 2982.10

This California law outlines rules for sellers assigning conditional sale contracts, which are agreements where the buyer pays over time and gets ownership only after full payment. Sellers can't get more money or credit from these contracts than a set limit based on specific interest rates, except in certain cases. Exceptions include situations where sellers keep full risk, the assignment happens more than six months after the sale, honest mistakes are made but corrected, or it involves motorcycles or certain off-road vehicles.

(a) In consideration of the assignment of a conditional sale contract, the seller shall not receive or accept from the assignee any payment or credit based upon any amount collected or received, or to be collected or received, under the contract as a finance charge except to the extent the payment or credit does not exceed the amount that would be calculated in accordance with Regulation Z, whether or not Regulation Z applies to the contract, as the contract’s finance charge using, for the purposes of the calculation, an annual percentage rate equal to 2.5 percent for a contract having an original scheduled term of 60 monthly payments or less or 2 percent for a contract having an original scheduled term of more than 60 monthly payments.

(b) Subdivision (a) does not apply in the following circumstances:

(1) An assignment that is with full recourse or under other terms requiring the seller to bear the entire risk of financial performance of the buyer.

(2) An assignment that is more than six months following the date of the conditional sale contract.

(3) Isolated instances resulting from bona fide errors that would otherwise constitute a violation of subdivision (a) if the seller maintains reasonable procedures to guard against any errors and promptly, upon notice of the error, remits to the assignee any consideration received in excess of that permitted by subdivision (a).

(4) The assignment of a conditional sale contract involving the sale of a motorcycle, as defined in Section 400 of the Vehicle Code.

(5) The assignment of a conditional sale contract involving the sale of an off-highway motor vehicle that is subject to identification under Section 38010 of the Vehicle Code.

conditional sale contract assignment of contract finance charge Regulation Z annual percentage rate full recourse financial risk scheduled term bona fide errors off-highway motor vehicle motorcycle sale credit limit seller payment limitations assignee payment error correction procedures

(Added by Stats. 2005, Ch. 128, Sec. 5. Effective January 1, 2006. Operative July 1, 2006, by Sec. 12 of Ch. 128.)

Section § 2982.11

This law states that before finalizing a contract for selling a car that includes a charge for an electric vehicle charging station, the seller must give the buyer a written document explaining certain costs and get the buyer's signature. This document must describe and list the price for the charging station, the materials and wiring, and any installation services. The information must be in a separate document from the contract, using at least 12-point font. This requirement started on July 1, 2013.

(a) Prior to the execution of a conditional sale contract that includes a charge for an electric vehicle charging station, the seller shall provide the buyer with, and obtain the buyer’s signature on, a written disclosure that includes a description and price of each of the following:

(1) The electric vehicle charging station device.

(2) Any materials and wiring.

(3) Any installation services included in the total charge.

(b) The disclosures required under this section shall be in at least 12-point type and shall be contained in a document that is separate from the conditional sale contract or purchase order.

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(Added by Stats. 2012, Ch. 675, Sec. 3. (AB 2502) Effective September 27, 2012. Section operative July 1, 2013, by its own provisions.)

Section § 2982.12

This section outlines the rules for offering, selling, and managing a Guaranteed Asset Protection (GAP) waiver in connection with conditional car sales. A GAP waiver helps cover the difference if a car is totaled or stolen and your insurance payout doesn’t cover the whole loan. It must be optional, and buying one can't be a condition to get financing or better terms on a car loan. The details of the GAP waiver must be on a separate document, clearly stating it's optional, and must be signed separately by the buyer. The cost of the GAP waiver can’t exceed 4% of the total loan amount. Buyers can cancel the waiver at any time without penalty, and they are entitled to refunds under certain conditions. Record-keeping is required for any refunds, and waivers of these rules are not allowed.

(a)

(1) A guaranteed asset protection waiver may be offered, sold, or provided to a buyer, or administered, in connection with a conditional sale contract subject to this chapter only in compliance with this chapter and paragraph (2) of subdivision (h) of Section 1758.992 of the Insurance Code.

(2) A guaranteed asset protection waiver, which may be titled as an addendum, forms part of the conditional sale contract and remains a part of the conditional sale contract upon the assignment, sale, or transfer of that conditional sale contract.

(3) Neither the extension of credit, the term of credit, nor the terms of a conditional sale contract may be conditioned upon the purchase of a guaranteed asset protection waiver.

(4)

(A) The terms and conditions of the guaranteed asset protection waiver, including those terms required by subdivision (b), shall appear on a document separate from the conditional sale contract and a buyer or potential buyer shall separately sign the document setting forth the guaranteed asset protection waiver’s terms and conditions in addition to the conditional sale contract.

(B) The separate document displaying the guaranteed asset protection waiver’s terms and conditions shall do the following:

(i) Conspicuously state that the guaranteed asset protection waiver is an optional addition to the conditional sale contract, and that the holder of the conditional sale contract is the contracting party to the guaranteed asset protection waiver, and state the name and mailing address of the seller. If the conditional sale contract is assigned, written notice of the assignment of both the conditional sale contract and guaranteed asset protection waiver, and the assignee’s name and mailing address, shall be provided to the buyer in person or by mail, or by a means of notice that the buyer previously agreed to with the seller or holder in connection with the conditional sale contract within 30 days of the assignment.

(ii) Conspicuously disclose the name and mailing address of any administrator known as of the date of the sale. In this section, “administrator” means any person, other than an insurer, that performs administrative or operational functions in connection with the guaranteed asset protection waiver. An administrator is deemed to be an agent of the contemporaneous holder with respect to performance of the holder’s obligations under the guaranteed asset protection waiver and this section.

(iii) Contain a notice with a heading in at least 12-point bold type and the text in at least 10-point bold type, circumscribed by a line, immediately above the contract signature line, that reads as follows:

STOP AND READ:

YOU CANNOT BE REQUIRED TO BUY A GAP WAIVER OR ANY OTHER OPTIONAL ADD-ON PRODUCTS OR SERVICES. IT IS OPTIONAL.

NO ONE CAN MAKE YOU BUY A GAP WAIVER OR ANY OTHER OPTIONAL ADD-ON PRODUCTS OR SERVICES TO GET FINANCING, TO GET CERTAIN FINANCING TERMS, OR TO GET CERTAIN TERMS FOR THE SALE OF A VEHICLE.

IT IS UNLAWFUL TO REQUIRE OR ATTEMPT TO REQUIRE THE PURCHASE OF THIS GAP WAIVER OR ANY OTHER OPTIONAL ADD-ON PRODUCTS OR SERVICES.

(5) A person that sells a guaranteed asset protection waiver subject to this chapter shall not do either of the following:

(A) Charge more for the guaranteed asset protection waiver than 4 percent of the amount the buyer finances under a conditional sale contract.

(B) Sell a guaranteed asset protection waiver if one of the following applies:

(i) The amount financed through the conditional sale contract exceeds a maximum dollar amount covered by the guaranteed asset protection waiver.

(ii) The conditional sale contract’s loan-to-value ratio at the contracting date exceeds the maximum loan-to-value ratio covered by the guaranteed asset protection waiver, unless the terms of the guaranteed asset protection waiver conspicuously disclose the maximum loan-to-value ratio limitation, including the method by which the limitation is applied, and the buyer is informed in a writing, acknowledged by the buyer, that the amount financed in the buyer’s conditional sale contract exceeds the waiver’s maximum loan-to-value limitation and therefore the waiver will not cover the total amount owed on the conditional sale contract. As used in this subclause, “loan-to-value ratio” means the total amount financed through a conditional sale contract as a percentage of the manufacturer suggested retail price for a new motor vehicle or the average retail value for a used motor vehicle, as determined by a nationally recognized pricing guide, as defined in paragraph (2) of subdivision (c) of Section 11950 of the Vehicle Code.

(iii) The amount financed through a conditional sale contract is less than 70 percent of the manufacturer suggested retail price for a new motor vehicle or the average retail value for a used motor vehicle, as determined by a nationally recognized pricing guide, as defined in paragraph (2) of subdivision (c) of Section 11950 of the Vehicle Code.

(6) Notwithstanding any provision in any conditional sale contract for the sale of a motor vehicle to the contrary, when communicating in writing an itemized contract balance to the buyer, including a payoff letter, payoff quote, or any written notice required under subdivision (a) of Section 2983.2 of this code or subdivision (b) of Section 22328 of the Financial Code, the holder of a conditional sale contract that includes a guaranteed asset protection waiver shall do either of the following:

(A) Individually identify as a credit or refund available to the buyer the unearned portion of all guaranteed asset protection waiver charges paid by the buyer as of the date of the communication on a pro rata basis.

(B) Conspicuously state that a buyer who purchased a guaranteed asset protection waiver is generally entitled to a refund of the unearned portion of the guaranteed asset protection waiver charges on a pro rata basis upon early termination of their conditional sale contract or cancellation of the guaranteed asset protection waiver, and that the buyer should contact the administrator identified in the buyer’s guaranteed asset protection waiver, or any other appropriate person designated by the holder, for identification of the amount of such a refund available to the buyer at that time.

(b)

(1) A guaranteed asset protection waiver terminates no later than the earliest of the following events:

(A) Cancellation of the guaranteed asset protection waiver by the buyer, as provided by paragraph (4).

(B) Payment in full by the buyer of the conditional sale contract.

(C) Expiration of any redemption and reinstatement periods after a repossession or surrender of the motor vehicle specified in the conditional sale contract pursuant to subdivision (a) of Section 2983.2.

(D) Upon total loss or unrecovered theft of the motor vehicle specified in the conditional sale contract, after the holder has applied all applicable benefits required under the guaranteed asset protection waiver.

(E) Upon any other event that occurs earlier than the events listed in subparagraphs (A) to (D), inclusive, as specified in the guaranteed asset protection waiver.

(2) Subject to paragraph (3), upon termination of a guaranteed asset protection waiver, the buyer is entitled to a refund as follows:

(A) If the termination occurs within 30 days after the date the buyer purchased the guaranteed asset protection waiver, the buyer is entitled to a full refund of the guaranteed asset protection waiver charges plus all finance charges attributable to the guaranteed asset protection waiver.

(B)

(i) If the termination occurs later than 30 days after the date the buyer purchased the guaranteed asset protection waiver, the buyer is entitled to a refund of the unearned guaranteed asset protection waiver charges, which shall be calculated on a pro rata basis.

(ii) For the purposes of this subparagraph, “calculating a refund on a pro rata basis” shall require multiplying the total dollar amount of guaranteed asset protection waiver charges by the quotient of the number of calendar days from the termination date to the conditional sale contract’s original full term date, including the termination date as a full calendar day, divided by the total number of calendar days in the conditional sale contract’s original term.

(iii) Notwithstanding clause (ii), if the original full term of the conditional sale contract exceeded the original full term of the guaranteed asset protection waiver as of the date the buyer purchased the guaranteed asset protection waiver, “calculating a refund on a pro rata basis” shall require multiplying the total dollar amount of guaranteed asset protection waiver charges by the quotient of the number of calendar days from the termination date to the guaranteed asset protection waiver’s original full term date, including the termination date as a full calendar day, divided by the total number of calendar days in the guaranteed asset protection waiver’s original term.

(C) No refund is required upon termination if there has been a total loss or unrecovered theft of the motor vehicle specified in the conditional sale contract and the buyer has or will receive the benefit of the guaranteed asset protection waiver.

(3) Within 60 business days from the termination of a guaranteed asset protection waiver, the holder shall tender the refund required under paragraph (2) or shall cause to be made the refund under paragraph (2) by instructing in writing the administrator or any other appropriate party to make the refund.

(A) A refund owed under this section may be applied by the holder as a reduction of the amount owed under the conditional sale contract unless the conditional sale contract has been paid in full.

(B) Refunds owed under this section are not exclusive and shall be in addition to any other refunds provided for in this chapter.

(4) A guaranteed asset protection waiver may be canceled by the buyer at any time without penalty.

(5) A cancellation fee, termination fee, or similar fee shall not be assessed in connection with the termination of a guaranteed asset protection waiver.

(6) In addition to the requirements of Section 2984.5, the holder shall maintain records identifying any refund made and tendered under paragraphs (2) and (3) of this subdivision, including those refunds the holder instructed the administrator or other appropriate party to make, and provide electronic access to those records, in response to any subpoena or other administratively or judicially enforceable request, until four years after the date the refund was tendered.

GAP waiver conditional sale contract optional add-ons refund entitlement loan-to-value ratio separate document GAP waiver termination unearned charges full refund cancellation rights record-keeping requirement conditional sales contract assignment credit requirement waiver void clauses

(Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 853, Sec. 16. (AB 3281) Effective January 1, 2025.)

Section § 2982.2

This section requires sellers to give buyers a separate written disclosure before signing a conditional sale contract. The disclosure must describe each item sold and its price, like service contracts, insurance products, and theft deterrent devices. It also needs to show the total of these charges, the installment payment without these charges, and the installment payment with these charges. The document must be clear, using at least 10-point font, and separate from the sale contract. However, it doesn't apply to motorcycles or certain off-highway vehicles.

(a) Prior to the execution of a conditional sale contract, the seller shall provide to a buyer, and obtain the buyer’s signature on, a written disclosure that sets forth the following information:

(1)

(A) A description and the price of each item sold if the contract includes a charge for the item.

(B) Subparagraph (A) applies to each item in the following categories:

(i) A service contract.

(ii) An insurance product.

(iii) A debt cancellation agreement or guaranteed asset protection waiver agreement.

(iv) A theft deterrent device.

(v) A surface protection product.

(vi) A vehicle contract cancellation option agreement.

(2) The sum of all of the charges disclosed under subdivision (a), labeled “total.”

(3) The amount that would be calculated under the contract as the regular installment payment if charges for the items disclosed pursuant to subdivision (a) are not included in the contract. The amount disclosed pursuant to this subdivision shall be labeled “Installment Payment EXCLUDING Listed Items.”

(4) The amount that would be calculated under the contract as the regular installment payment if charges for the items disclosed under subdivision (a) are included in the contract. The amount disclosed pursuant to this subdivision shall be labeled “Installment Payment INCLUDING Listed Items.”

(b) The disclosures required under this section shall be in at least 10-point type and shall be contained in a document that is separate from the conditional sale contract and a purchase order.

(c) This section does not apply to the sale of a motorcycle, as defined in Section 400 of the Vehicle Code, or an off-highway vehicle subject to identification under Section 38010 of the Vehicle Code.

conditional sale contract written disclosure service contract insurance products debt cancellation agreement theft deterrent device surface protection product vehicle contract cancellation option installment payment motorcycle exemption off-highway vehicle buyer signature price description separate document 10-point type

(Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 283, Sec. 3. (AB 2311) Effective January 1, 2023.)

Section § 2982.3

This part of the law talks about what happens if you need to delay a car payment under a conditional sale contract, which is basically an agreement to buy, often used for car purchases. If both the buyer and seller agree, you can push back the payment due dates or even split up the payments, but the agreement must be in writing and signed to avoid any extra charges. If you have a finance charge that's calculated in advance, the law allows for an extra charge but limits it to 1% per month for the delayed payment period. If your finance charge is calculated on a simple-interest basis, the extra fee cannot be more than $25 or 10% of what's still owed, whichever is less. This is in addition to any interest that keeps piling up due to the new payment date.

(a) The holder of a conditional sale contract may, upon agreement with the buyer, extend the scheduled due date or defer the scheduled payment of all or of any part of any installment or installments payable thereunder. No charge shall be made for any such extension or deferment unless the agreement for such extension or deferment is in writing and signed by the parties thereto. However, the seller or holder may, as an adjunct to or to assist in efforts to collect one or more delinquent installments on the contract, advise one or more obligors on the contract, either in writing or orally, that the due date for one or more installments under the contract shall be extended, with no charge being made for such extension other than any applicable late charge provided for in the contract.

(b) Where the contract includes a finance charge determined on the precomputed basis, the holder may charge and contract for the payment of an extension or deferral agreement charge by the buyer and collect and receive the same, but such charge may not exceed an amount equal to 1 percent per month simple interest on the amount of the installment or installments, or part thereof, extended or deferred for the period of extension or deferral. Such period shall not exceed the period from the date when such extended or deferred installment or installments, or part thereof, would have been payable in the absence of such extension or deferral to the date when such installment or installments, or part thereof, are made payable under the agreement of extension or deferment; except that a minimum charge of one dollar ($1) for the period of extension or deferral may be made in any case where the extension or deferral agreement charge, when computed at such rate, amounts to less than one dollar ($1).

(c) Where the contract includes a finance charge determined on the simple-interest basis, the holder may charge and contract for the payment of an extension or deferral agreement charge by the buyer and collect and receive the same, but the charge for the extension or deferral agreement may not exceed the lesser of twenty-five dollars ($25) or 10 percent of the then outstanding principal balance of the contract. Such charge shall be in addition to any finance charges which accrue because such extended or deferred payments are received at a time other than as originally scheduled.

conditional sale contract installment payment extension agreement deferment agreement finance charge precomputed basis simple interest late charge written agreement buyer obligations seller rights delinquent installments extension charge outstanding principal balance payment delay

(Amended by Stats. 1987, Ch. 448, Sec. 2.)

Section § 2982.5

This law is about loans connected to buying vehicles and clarifies that it doesn’t affect loans made by banks or other regulated financial organizations that aren’t the seller. Sellers can help buyers get loans for parts of the purchase, like down payments, but must disclose full loan details on the sale contract. Sellers can’t secure or profit from these loans. If a buyer cannot get a loan after an agreement, the sale can be reversed, and everyone gets back what they paid. The law also covers conditions for using property as loan security and protects buyers from unfair charges. Any buyer agreement waiving these rules is not valid.

(a) This chapter may not be deemed to affect a loan, or the security therefor, between a purchaser of a motor vehicle and a supervised financial organization, other than the seller of the motor vehicle, all or a portion of which loan is used in connection with the purchase of a motor vehicle. As used in this chapter, “supervised financial organization” means a person organized, chartered, or holding a license or authorization certificate under a law of this state or the United States to make loans and subject to supervision by an official or agency of this state or the United States.

(b) This chapter may not be deemed to prohibit the seller’s assisting the buyer in obtaining a loan upon any security from any third party to be used as a part or all of the downpayment or any other payment on a conditional sale contract or purchase order; provided that the conditional sale contract sets forth on its face the amount of the loan, the finance charge, the total thereof, the number of installments scheduled to repay the loan and the amount of each installment, that the buyer may be required to pledge security for the loan, which security shall be mutually agreed to by the buyer and the lender and notice to the buyer in at least 8-point type that he or she is obligated for the installment payments on both the conditional sale contract and the loan. The seller may not provide any security or other guarantee of payment on the loan, nor shall the seller receive any commission or other remuneration for assisting the buyer to obtain the loan. If the buyer obligates himself or herself to purchase, or receives possession of, the motor vehicle prior to securing the loan, and if the buyer upon appropriate application for the loan is unable to secure the loan, on the conditions stated in the conditional sale contract, the conditional sale contract or purchase order shall be deemed rescinded and all consideration thereupon shall be returned by the respective parties without demand.

(c) The proceeds of any loan payable to the seller after the date of the contract but prior to the due date of the second payment otherwise scheduled thereunder may not be subject to a finance charge and the amount thereof shall be disclosed pursuant to subparagraph (D) of paragraph (6) of subdivision (a) of Section 2982.

(d) This chapter may not be deemed to prohibit the seller’s assisting the buyer in obtaining a loan from any third party to be used to pay for the full purchase price, or any part thereof, of a motor vehicle, if each of the following provisions applies:

(1) The loan may be upon any security, but except as provided in paragraph (2), the loan may not be secured in whole or in part by a lien on real property. Any lien on real property taken in violation of this section shall be void and unenforceable.

(2) A lien on real property may be taken to secure a loan of seven thousand five hundred dollars ($7,500) or more used to pay the full purchase price, or any part thereof, of a recreational vehicle, as defined in Section 18010 of the Health and Safety Code, which is not less than 20 feet in length.

(3) The provisions of Sections 2983.2, 2983.3, and 2984.4 shall apply to the loan, but may not authorize the lender or the lender’s successor in interest to charge for any costs, fees, or expenses or to obtain any other benefit which the lender is prohibited from charging or obtaining under any regulatory law applicable to the lender. Notwithstanding this paragraph, the provisions of Sections 2983.2 and 2983.3 may not apply to a loan made by a lender licensed under Division 9 (commencing with Section 22000) or Division 10 (commencing with Section 24000) of the Financial Code.

(4) The lender or the lender’s successor in interest shall be subject to all claims and defenses which the buyer could assert against the seller, but liability may not exceed the amount of the loan.

(5) If the buyer becomes obligated to purchase, or receives possession of, the motor vehicle prior to obtaining the loan, the agreement between the buyer and the seller shall set forth on its face the amount of the loan, the finance charge, the total thereof, the number of installments scheduled to repay the loan and the amount of each installment, that the buyer may be required to pledge security for the loan, which security must be mutually agreed to by the buyer and the lender, and notice to the buyer in at least 8-point type that the buyer is obligated for the installment payments on the loan and for any payments which may be due on the agreement between the buyer and the seller. The seller may not provide any security or other guarantee of payment on the loan, and the seller may not receive any commission or other remuneration for assisting the buyer to obtain the loan. If the buyer upon proper application for the loan is unable to obtain the loan, on the condition stated in the agreement between the buyer and the seller, the agreement shall be deemed rescinded and all consideration thereupon shall be returned by the respective parties without demand.

(6) Any waiver by the buyer of the provisions of this section shall be void and unenforceable.

This subdivision does not apply to state or federally chartered banks and savings and loan associations and may not be construed to affect existing law regarding a seller’s assisting a buyer to obtain a loan from a bank or savings and loan association or any loan obtained by the buyer from those lenders.

motor vehicle purchase loans supervised financial organization conditional sale contract seller loan assistance loan disclosure recreational vehicle loans property lien restrictions buyer protection loan rescission finance charge third-party loans installment payments security agreement void waivers unsecured loans

(Amended by Stats. 2003, Ch. 37, Sec. 2. Effective January 1, 2004.)

Section § 2982.7

If you make a payment to a seller while waiting for a conditional sale contract on something like a car, and the contract doesn't end up happening, you should get that payment back. If you leave your car with the seller as a down payment and the seller doesn't give your car back after breaking the contract, you can claim from the seller the higher of either the market value of your car or the value listed in the contract. This refund should be given to you within five business days of the breach. Also, these rights don't stop you from using other legal options you might have.

(a) Any payment made by a buyer to a seller pending execution of a conditional sale contract shall be refunded to the buyer in the event the conditional sale contract is not executed.

(b) In the event of breach by the seller of a conditional sale contract or purchase order where the buyer leaves his motor vehicle with the seller as downpayment and such motor vehicle is not returned by the seller to the buyer for whatever reason, the buyer may recover from the seller either the fair market value of the motor vehicle left as a downpayment or its value as stated in the contract or purchase order, whichever is greater. The recovery shall be tendered to the buyer within five business days after the breach.

(c) The remedies of the buyer provided for in subdivision (b) are nonexclusive and cumulative and shall not preclude the buyer from pursuing any other remedy which he may have under any other provision of law.

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(Amended by Stats. 1976, Ch. 1285.)

Section § 2982.8

This section explains what happens if you, as a car buyer, need to maintain insurance on your vehicle and fail to do so after signing a conditional sale contract. If you don't maintain insurance or ask your lender to get it for you, they can charge you extra for that and notify you about repayment options. You can pay in full within 10 days, spread out the payments over the insurance term, or a few other ways if the lender offers them. If you don't choose or repay in time, the lender might decide how you'll pay back. The notification will clearly state all the payment details and remind you that this insurance won't cover your legal liability requirements, like getting in an accident. Also, if the lender has to pay for repairs because you didn't, they can charge interest on those costs too, but not more than what was originally agreed in the contract.

(a) If a buyer is obligated under the terms of the conditional sale contract to maintain insurance on the vehicle and subsequent to the execution of the contract the buyer either fails to maintain or requests the holder to procure the insurance, any amounts advanced by the holder to procure the insurance may be the subject of finance charges from the date of advance as provided in subdivision (e).

(b) These amounts shall be secured as provided in the contract and permitted by Section 2984.2 if the holder notifies the buyer in writing of his or her option to repay those amounts in any one of the following ways:

(1) Full payment within 10 days from the date of giving or mailing the notice.

(2) Full amortization during the term of the insurance.

(3) If offered by the holder, full amortization after the term of the conditional sale contract, to be payable in installments which do not exceed the average payment allocable to a monthly period under the contract.

(4) If offered by the holder, a combination of the methods described in paragraphs (2) and (3), so that there is some amortization during the term of the insurance, with the remainder of the amortization being accomplished after the term of the conditional sale contract, to be payable in installments which do not exceed the average payment allocable to a monthly period under the original terms of the contract.

(5) If offered by the holder, any other amortization plan.

If the buyer neither pays in full the amounts advanced nor notifies the holder in writing of his or her choice regarding amortization options before the expiration of 10 days from the date of giving or mailing the notice by the holder, the holder may amortize the amounts advanced on a secured basis pursuant to paragraph (2) or, if offered by the holder as an option to the buyer, paragraph (3) or (4).

(c) The written notification described in subdivision (b) shall also set forth the amounts advanced by the holder and, with respect to each amortization plan the amount of the additional finance charge, the sum of the amounts advanced and the additional finance charge, the number of installments required, the amount of each installment and the date for payment of the installments.

In addition, the notice shall contain a statement in contrasting red print in at least 8-point bold type, which reads as follows:
“WARNING—IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY UNDER CALIFORNIA LAW TO OBTAIN LIABILITY INSURANCE OR BE SUBJECT TO PENALTIES FOR VIOLATING SECTION 16020 OF THE VEHICLE CODE, WHICH MAY INCLUDE LOSS OF LICENSE OR A FINE. THE INSURANCE ACQUIRED BY THE LIENHOLDER DOES NOT PROVIDE LIABILITY COVERAGE AND DOES NOT SATISFY YOUR RESPONSIBILITY UNDER CALIFORNIA LAW.”

(d) If subsequent to the execution of the contract the holder advances amounts for repairs to or preservation of the motor vehicle or preservation of the holder’s security interest therein and such advances are occasioned by the buyer’s default under the contract, such advances may be the subject of finance charges from the date of advance as provided in subdivision (e) and shall be secured as provided in the contract and permitted by Section 2984.2.

(e) The maximum rate of finance charge which may be imposed on amounts advanced by the holder subsequent to the execution of the contract for insurance, repairs to or preservation of the motor vehicle, or preservation of the holder’s security interest therein, shall not exceed the annual percentage rate disclosed pursuant to Section 2982.

conditional sale contract vehicle insurance finance charges repayment options security interest insurance deficit buyer default repair advances annual percentage rate liability insurance notice California Vehicle Code

(Amended by Stats. 1988, Ch. 1092, Sec. 2.)

Section § 2982.9

If you agree to buy a car and plan to get a loan on your own rather than through the seller, but then you can't secure that financing, the deal is canceled. Both you and the seller must give back what you exchanged without anyone having to ask for it.

In the event a buyer obligates himself to purchase, or receive possession of, a motor vehicle pursuant to a contract or purchase order, and the seller knows that the buyer intends to obtain financing from a third party without the assistance of the seller, and the buyer is unable to obtain such financing, the contract or purchase order shall be deemed rescinded and all consideration thereupon shall be returned by the respective parties without demand.

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(Added by Stats. 1976, Ch. 1285.)

Section § 2983

This law deals with the enforceability of conditional sale contracts in California, specifically when a seller violates certain sections of the law. Generally, if a seller doesn't follow specific provisions, the contract can't be enforced unless the error is fixed. Buyers can recover money they've paid if the issue isn't corrected. However, for contracts made after January 1, 2012, the contract won't automatically be unenforceable if specific minor violations occur, though buyers can still claim any actual damages they've suffered due to these breaches.

(a) Except as provided in subdivision (b), if the seller, except as the result of an accidental or bona fide error in computation, violates any provision of Section 2981.9, or of subdivision (a), (j), or (k) of Section 2982, the conditional sale contract shall not be enforceable, except by a bona fide purchaser, assignee, or pledgee for value, or until after the violation is corrected as provided in Section 2984, and, if the violation is not corrected, the buyer may recover from the seller the total amount paid, pursuant to the terms of the contract, by the buyer to the seller or his or her assignee. The amount recoverable for property traded in as all or part of the downpayment shall be equal to the agreed cash value of the property as the value appears on the conditional sale contract or the fair market value of the property as of the time the contract is made, whichever is greater.

(b) A conditional sale contract executed or entered into on or after January 1, 2012, shall not be made unenforceable solely because of a violation by the seller of paragraph (2) or (5) of subdivision (a) of Section 2982. In addition to any other remedies that may be available, the buyer is entitled to any actual damages sustained as a result of a violation of those provisions. Nothing in this subdivision affects any legal rights, claims, or remedies otherwise available under law.

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(Amended by Stats. 2012, Ch. 162, Sec. 11. (SB 1171) Effective January 1, 2013.)

Section § 2983.1

This law explains what happens if there's a breach of certain terms in a conditional sale contract for things like cars. If a seller or holder makes a mistake that's not accidental, the buyer can get back three times what they paid in finance charges or protection fees. If someone buys the contract and wasn't aware of any issues, the contract is still good; the buyer just doesn't have to pay finance charges unless corrections are made. If they did know about the problem, the contract doesn't hold up unless resolved, and the buyer might owe less or nothing. Buyers can also choose to cancel the contract and return the car, or keep it and go on as agreed. Finally, contracts made after January 1, 2012, are generally still valid even if certain errors occur, but the buyer can claim actual damages caused by the error.

(a) If the seller or holder of a conditional sale contract, except as the result of an accidental or bona fide error of computation, violates any provision of subdivision (l) of Section 2982, the buyer may recover from the person three times the amount of any finance charge paid to that person.

(b) If a holder of a conditional sale contract that includes a guaranteed asset protection waiver, except as the result of an accidental or bona fide error of computation, violates any provision of subdivision (b) of Section 2982.12, the buyer may recover from the holder three times the amount of any guaranteed asset protection charges paid.

(c) Except as provided in subdivision (f), if a holder acquires a conditional sale contract without actual knowledge of the violation by the seller of Section 2981.9, or of subdivision (a), (j), or (k) of Section 2982, the contract shall be valid and enforceable by the holder except the buyer is excused from payment of the unpaid finance charge, unless the violation is corrected as provided in Section 2984.

(d) Except as provided in subdivision (f), if a holder acquires a conditional sale contract with knowledge of a violation of Section 2981.9, or of subdivision (a), (j), or (k) of Section 2982, the conditional sale contract shall not be enforceable except by a bona fide purchaser, assignee, or pledgee for value, or unless the violation is corrected as provided in Section 2984, and, if the violation is not corrected, the buyer may recover the amounts specified in Section 2983 from the person to whom payment was made.

(e) When a conditional sale contract is not enforceable under Section 2983 or this section, the buyer may elect to retain the motor vehicle and continue the contract in force, or may, with reasonable diligence, elect to rescind the contract and return the motor vehicle. The value of the motor vehicle returned shall be credited as restitution by the buyer without any decrease that results from the passage of time in the cash price of the motor vehicle as the price appears on the conditional sale contract.

(f) A conditional sale contract executed or entered into on or after January 1, 2012, shall not be made unenforceable, and the buyer shall not be excused from payment of any finance charge, solely because of a violation by the seller of paragraph (2) or (5) of subdivision (a) of Section 2982. In addition to any other remedies that may be available, the buyer is entitled to any actual damages sustained as a result of a violation of those provisions. Nothing in this subdivision affects any legal rights, claims, or remedies otherwise available under law.

conditional sale contract finance charge accidental error bona fide error subdivision violations guaranteed asset protection contract enforceability motor vehicle return option actual damages Section 2982 Section 2982.12 unpaid finance charge contract rescission dealer breach

(Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 283, Sec. 5. (AB 2311) Effective January 1, 2023.)

Section § 2983.2

This law outlines the steps and notices that must be provided when a repossessed or surrendered vehicle is sold after a conditional sale contract default. The person who owes money on the vehicle must be given at least 15 days' notice before the disposal, specifying their rights to redeem or reinstate the contract, potential liabilities, where the vehicle can be reclaimed, and who to contact for payment. It also covers what happens if there's money left over or a shortfall after the vehicle is sold. Additionally, a written statement detailing the sale's proceeds and related expenses must be given to the debtor on request. The law excludes loans from certain licensed lenders.

(a) Except where the motor vehicle has been seized as described in paragraph (6) of subdivision (b) of Section 2983.3, any provision in any conditional sale contract for the sale of a motor vehicle to the contrary notwithstanding, at least 15 days’ written notice of intent to dispose of a repossessed or surrendered motor vehicle shall be given to all persons liable on the contract. The notice shall be personally served or shall be sent by certified mail, return receipt requested, or first-class mail, postage prepaid, directed to the last known address of the persons liable on the contract. If those persons are married to each other, and, according to the most recent records of the seller or holder of the contract, reside at the same address, one notice addressed to both persons at that address is sufficient. Except as otherwise provided in Section 2983.8, those persons shall be liable for any deficiency after disposition of the repossessed or surrendered motor vehicle only if the notice prescribed by this section is given within 60 days of repossession or surrender and does all of the following:

(1) Sets forth that those persons shall have a right to redeem the motor vehicle by paying in full the indebtedness evidenced by the contract until the expiration of 15 days from the date of giving or mailing the notice and provides an itemization of the contract balance and of any delinquency, collection or repossession costs and fees and sets forth the computation or estimate of the amount of any credit for unearned finance charges or canceled insurance as of the date of the notice.

(2) States either that there is a conditional right to reinstate the contract until the expiration of 15 days from the date of giving or mailing the notice and all the conditions precedent thereto or that there is no right of reinstatement and provides a statement of reasons therefor.

(3) States that, upon written request, the seller or holder shall extend for an additional 10 days the redemption period or, if entitled to the conditional right of reinstatement, both the redemption and reinstatement periods. The seller or holder shall provide the proper form for applying for the extensions with the substance of the form being limited to the extension request, spaces for the requesting party to sign and date the form, and instructions that it must be personally served or sent by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested, to a person or office and address designated by the seller or holder and received before the expiration of the initial redemption and reinstatement periods.

(4) Discloses the place at which the motor vehicle will be returned to those persons upon redemption or reinstatement.

(5) Designates the name and address of the person or office to whom payment shall be made.

(6) States the seller’s or holder’s intent to dispose of the motor vehicle upon the expiration of 15 days from the date of giving or mailing the notice, or if by mail and either the place of deposit in the mail or the place of address is outside of this state, the period shall be 20 days instead of 15 days, and further, that upon written request to extend the redemption period and any applicable reinstatement period for 10 days, the seller or holder shall without further notice extend the period accordingly.

(7) Informs those persons that upon written request, the seller or holder will furnish a written accounting regarding the disposition of the motor vehicle as provided for in subdivision (b). The seller or holder shall advise them that this request must be personally served or sent first-class mail, postage prepaid, or certified mail, return receipt requested, to a person or office and address designated by the seller or holder.

(8) Includes notice, in at least 10-point bold type if the notice is printed, reading as follows: “NOTICE. YOU MAY BE SUBJECT TO SUIT AND LIABILITY IF THE AMOUNT OBTAINED UPON DISPOSITION OF THE VEHICLE IS INSUFFICIENT TO PAY THE CONTRACT BALANCE AND ANY OTHER AMOUNTS DUE.”

(9) Informs those persons that upon the disposition of the motor vehicle, they will be liable for the deficiency balance plus interest at the contract rate, or at the legal rate of interest pursuant to Section 3289 if there is no contract rate of interest, from the date of disposition of the motor vehicle to the date of entry of judgment.

The notice prescribed by this section shall not affect the discretion of the court to strike out an unconscionable interest rate in the contract for which the notice is required, nor affect the court in its determination of whether the rate is unconscionable.

(b) Unless automatically provided to the buyer within 45 days after the disposition of the motor vehicle, the seller or holder shall provide to any person liable on the contract within 45 days after their written request, if the request is made within one year after the disposition, a written accounting regarding the disposition. The accounting shall itemize:

(1) The gross proceeds of the disposition.

(2) The reasonable and necessary expenses incurred for retaking, holding, preparing for and conducting the sale and to the extent provided for in the agreement and not prohibited by law, reasonable attorney fees and legal expenses incurred by the seller or holder in retaking the motor vehicle from any person not a party to the contract.

(3) The satisfaction of indebtedness secured by any subordinate lien or encumbrance on the motor vehicle if written notification of demand therefor is received before distribution of the proceeds is completed. If requested by the seller or holder, the holder of a subordinate lien or encumbrance must seasonably furnish reasonable proof of its interest, and unless it does so, the seller or holder need not comply with its demand.

(c) In all sales which result in a surplus, the seller or holder shall furnish an accounting as provided in subdivision (b) whether or not requested by the buyer. Any surplus shall be returned to the buyer within 45 days after the sale is conducted.

(d) This section does not apply to a loan made by a lender licensed under Division 9 (commencing with Section 22000) of the Financial Code.

repossession notice vehicle redemption conditional sale contract contract reinstatement vehicle disposal intent deficiency liability written accounting gross proceeds surplus return unconscionable interest rates certified mail notice subordinate lien surplus accounting surrendered vehicle notice Section 2983.2

(Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 497, Sec. 28. (AB 991) Effective January 1, 2020.)

Section § 2983.3

This law prevents sellers or contract holders from speeding up payments or taking back a car unless the buyer has not met their contract obligations. Bankruptcy itself isn't considered a default, and contracts can't say otherwise. If a car is taken back due to default, the buyer can usually get it back by fixing the issue. Exceptions exist if the buyer lied, tried to hide or damage the car, used it for crime, or threatened violence. The buyer can reinstate the contract within limits, like paying missed payments, clearing liens, and maintaining insurance. If denied reinstatement, the seller must prove it was justified. This law does not apply to loans from certain licensed lenders.

(a)

(1) In the absence of default in the performance of any of the buyer’s obligations under the contract, the seller or holder may not accelerate the maturity of any part or all of the amount due thereunder or repossess the motor vehicle.

(2) Neither the act of filing a petition commencing a case for bankruptcy under Title 11 of the United States Code by the buyer or other individual liable on the contract nor the status of either of those persons as a debtor in bankruptcy constitutes a default in the performance of any of the buyer’s obligations under the contract, and neither may be used as a basis for accelerating the maturity of any part or all of the amount due under the contract or for repossessing the motor vehicle. A provision of a contract that states that the act of filing a petition commencing a case for bankruptcy under Title 11 of the United States Code by the buyer or other individual liable on the contract or the status of either of those persons as a debtor in bankruptcy is a default is void and unenforceable.

(b) If after default by the buyer, the seller or holder repossesses or voluntarily accepts surrender of the motor vehicle, any person liable on the contract shall have a right to reinstate the contract and the seller or holder shall not accelerate the maturity of any part or all of the contract prior to expiration of the right to reinstate, unless the seller or holder reasonably and in good faith determines that any of the following has occurred:

(1) The buyer or any other person liable on the contract by omission or commission intentionally provided false or misleading information of material importance on the buyer’s or other person’s credit application.

(2) The buyer, any other person liable on the contract, or any permissive user in possession of the motor vehicle, in order to avoid repossession has concealed the motor vehicle or removed it from the state.

(3) The buyer, any other person liable on the contract, or any permissive user in possession of the motor vehicle, has committed or threatens to commit acts of destruction, or has failed to take care of the motor vehicle in a reasonable manner, so that the motor vehicle has become substantially impaired in value, or the buyer, any other person liable on the contract, or any nonoccasional permissive user in possession of the motor vehicle has failed to take care of the motor vehicle in a reasonable manner, so that the motor vehicle may become substantially impaired in value.

(4) The buyer or any other person liable on the contract has committed, attempted to commit, or threatened to commit criminal acts of violence or bodily harm against an agent, employee, or officer of the seller or holder in connection with the seller’s or holder’s repossession of or attempt to repossess the motor vehicle.

(5) The buyer has knowingly used the motor vehicle, or has knowingly permitted it to be used, in connection with the commission of a criminal offense, other than an infraction, as a consequence of which the motor vehicle has been seized by a federal, state, or local agency or authority pursuant to federal, state, or local law.

(6) The motor vehicle has been seized by a federal, state, or local public agency or authority pursuant to (A) Section 1324 of Title 8 of the United States Code or Part 274 of Title 8 of the Code of Federal Regulations, (B) Section 881 of Title 21 of the United States Code or Part 9 of Title 28 of the Code of Federal Regulations, or (C) other federal, state, or local law, including regulations, and, pursuant to that other law, the seizing authority, as a precondition to the return of the motor vehicle to the seller or holder, prohibits the return of the motor vehicle to the buyer or other person liable on the contract or any third person claiming the motor vehicle by or through them or otherwise effects or requires the termination of the property rights in the motor vehicle of the buyer or other person liable on the contract or claimants by or through them.

(c) Exercise of the right to reinstate the contract shall be limited to once in any 12-month period and twice during the term of the contract.

(d) The provisions of this subdivision cover the method by which a contract shall be reinstated with respect to curing events of default which were a ground for repossession or occurred subsequent to repossession:

(1) When the default is the result of the buyer’s failure to make any payment due under the contract, the buyer or any other person liable on the contract shall make the defaulted payments and pay any applicable delinquency charges.

(2) When the default is the result of the buyer’s failure to keep and maintain the motor vehicle free from all encumbrances and liens of every kind, the buyer or any other person liable on the contract shall either satisfy all encumbrances and liens or, in the event the seller or holder satisfies the encumbrances and liens, the buyer or any other person liable on the contract shall reimburse the seller or holder for all reasonable costs and expenses incurred therefor.

(3) When the default is the result of the buyer’s failure to keep and maintain insurance on the motor vehicle, the buyer or any other person liable on the contract shall either obtain the insurance or, in the event the seller or holder has obtained the insurance, the buyer or any other person liable on the contract shall reimburse the seller or holder for premiums paid and all reasonable costs and expenses, including, but not limited to, any finance charge in connection with the premiums permitted by Section 2982.8, incurred therefor.

(4) When the default is the result of the buyer’s failure to perform any other obligation under the contract, unless the seller or holder has made a good faith determination that the default is so substantial as to be incurable, the buyer or any other person liable on the contract shall either cure the default or, if the seller or holder has performed the obligation, reimburse the seller or holder for all reasonable costs and expenses incurred in connection therewith.

(5) Additionally, the buyer or any other person liable on the contract shall, in all cases, reimburse the seller or holder for all reasonable and necessary collection and repossession costs and fees actually paid by the seller or holder, including attorney’s fees and legal expenses expended in retaking and holding the vehicle.

(e) If the seller or holder denies the right to reinstatement under subdivision (b) or paragraph (4) of subdivision (d), the seller or holder shall have the burden of proof that the denial was justified in that it was reasonable and made in good faith. If the seller or holder fails to sustain the burden of proof, the seller or holder shall not be entitled to a deficiency, but it shall not be presumed that the buyer is entitled to damages by reason of the failure of the seller or holder to sustain the burden of proof.

(f) This section does not apply to a loan made by a lender licensed under Division 9 (commencing with Section 22000) of the Financial Code.

motor vehicle repossession bankruptcy filing contract default right to reinstate false information concealment of vehicle vehicle impairment criminal offense repossession costs denial of reinstatement burden of proof surrender of vehicle buyer obligations encumbrances and liens insurance maintenance

(Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 716, Sec. 1. (SB 1099) Effective January 1, 2023.)

Section § 2983.35

If you need someone to co-sign for your car loan, the lender must inform the co-signer in writing if the loan is overdue before they take back the car. This notice must be served in person, sent by certified or first-class mail, and go to the co-signer's last known address. If the co-signer lives at the same address as the borrower, one notice sent to both is acceptable. If the lender doesn't give this notice, they can't charge the co-signer for any costs related to taking back the car. This law applies to any motor vehicle loan agreement. A 'co-signer' is someone who signed the loan but doesn't actually take the car. 'Creditor' is the seller or financer of the car, and 'holder' is anyone who can enforce the loan terms.

(a) If a creditor has requested a cosigner as a condition of granting credit to any person for the purpose of acquisition of a motor vehicle, the creditor or holder shall give the cosigner a written notice of delinquency prior to the repossession of the motor vehicle if the motor vehicle is to be repossessed pursuant to the motor vehicle credit agreement. The written notice of delinquency shall be personally served or shall be sent by certified mail, return receipt requested, or first-class mail, postage prepaid, directed to the last known address of the cosigner. If the last known address of the buyer and the cosigner are the same, a single written notice of delinquency given to both the borrower and cosigner prior to repossession satisfies the cosigner notice requirement of this section.

(b) A creditor or holder who fails to comply with this section may not recover any costs associated with the repossession of the vehicle from the cosigner.

(d) The following definitions govern the construction of this section.

(1) “Cosigner” means a buyer who executes a motor vehicle credit agreement but does not in fact receive possession of the motor vehicle that is the subject of the agreement.

(2) “Creditor” means a seller or lender described in paragraph (4).

(3) “Holder” means any other person who is entitled to enforce the motor vehicle credit agreement.

(4) “Motor vehicle credit agreement” means any conditional sales contract as defined in Section 2981 and any contract or agreement in which a lender gives value to enable a purchaser to acquire a motor vehicle and in which the lender obtains a security interest in the motor vehicle.

cosigner notice vehicle repossession written notice motor vehicle credit agreement delinquency notice address of cosigner first-class mail repossession costs motor vehicle loan conditional sales contract security interest lender obligations buyer and cosigner creditor written delinquency

(Added by Stats. 1996, Ch. 313, Sec. 2. Effective January 1, 1997.)

Section § 2983.37

This law states that after a vehicle is sold by a buy-here-pay-here dealer, certain rules must be followed regarding electronic tracking and vehicle disablement technologies. The buyer must be informed and consent to any tracking device, and tracking should be for specific reasons like repossessing or servicing the loan. Any optional tracking services must be agreed upon separately, and buyers can cancel them anytime. If the dealer uses starter interrupt technology to disable the car, the buyer must be informed in writing at the time of sale, receive advance warnings about its use, and be able to restart the car for emergencies after disablement. Dealers cannot force buyers to make payments in person, except for the downpayment, and failing to comply with these rules can result in a fine up to $2,000.

(a) After a sale of a vehicle under this chapter, a buy-here-pay-here dealer, as defined in Section 241 of the Vehicle Code, shall not do any of the following:

(1) Utilize electronic tracking technology to obtain or record the location of the vehicle, unless the buyer is expressly made aware of the existence and use of the tracking technology by the buy-here-pay-here dealer, the buyer’s written consent is obtained, and either subparagraph (A) or (B), or both, apply:

(A) The electronic tracking technology is used solely to verify and maintain the operational status of the tracking technology, to repossess the vehicle, or to locate the vehicle to service the loan or keep the loan current.

(B) The electronic tracking technology is used solely for any optional service to the buyer and both of the following conditions are met:

(i) The agreement to utilize electronic tracking technology for the optional service is separate from the purchase and sale agreement, is not a condition of the purchase or sale agreement for the vehicle, and is executed after the completion of the purchase or sale agreement for the vehicle.

(ii) The buyer is permitted to cancel the optional service at any point in the future without affecting the sale of the vehicle, and is informed of his or her ability to do so.

(2) Disable the vehicle by using starter interrupt technology, unless the buy-here-pay-here dealer complies with all of the following provisions:

(A) Notifies the buyer in writing at the time of the sale that the vehicle is equipped with starter interrupt technology, which the buy-here-pay-here dealer can use to shut down the vehicle remotely.

(B) The written disclosure provided to the buyer at the time of sale informs the buyer that a warning will be provided five days before the use of the starter interrupt technology for all weekly payment term contracts and 10 days before the use of starter interrupt technology on all other contracts, and a final warning will be provided no less than 48 hours before the use of the starter interrupt technology to shut down the vehicle remotely and discloses the manner and method in which that warning will occur. The dealer shall offer the buyer a choice of warning methods, including warning from the device, telephone call, email, or text message, if available, provided that the warning method does not violate applicable state or federal law.

(C) The written disclosure provided to the buyer at the time of sale informs the buyer that in the event of an emergency, the buyer will be provided with the ability to start a dealer-disabled vehicle for no less than 24 hours after the vehicle’s initial disablement.

(b) A buy-here-pay-here dealer shall not require the buyer to make payments to the seller in person. For purposes of this subdivision, “payments” does not include the downpayment. If the buyer tenders timely payment of a deferred downpayment, the dealer shall not repossess the vehicle or impose any other charge or penalty on the grounds that the payment was not made in person.

buy-here-pay-here dealer electronic tracking technology starter interrupt technology buyer consent separate agreement cancel optional service advance warnings emergency restart in-person payments vehicle repossession written disclosure sales agreement conditions fine for violations tracking technology limitations timely payment compliance

(Amended by Stats. 2015, Ch. 179, Sec. 1. (AB 265) Effective January 1, 2016.)

Section § 2983.4

This law states that if there's a legal case about a contract or purchase order, the person who wins the case will have their attorney's fees and costs paid by the other side. It doesn't matter who started the legal action. If the defendant claims they've already paid the right amount and proves this by putting that money in the court, they can be considered the winning party as well.

Reasonable attorney’s fees and costs shall be awarded to the prevailing party in any action on a contract or purchase order subject to the provisions of this chapter regardless of whether the action is instituted by the seller, holder or buyer. Where the defendant alleges in his answer that he tendered to the plaintiff the full amount to which he was entitled, and thereupon deposits in court, for the plaintiff, the amount so tendered, and the allegation is found to be true, then the defendant is deemed to be a prevailing party within the meaning of this section.

reasonable attorney's fees prevailing party contract action purchase order legal costs tender full amount deposits in court defendant's allegation plaintiff award costs buyer seller holder

(Amended by Stats. 1976, Ch. 1285.)

Section § 2983.5

If the seller of something you bought has transferred their rights to someone else (an assignee), that new party has to deal with any claims or defenses you might have had against the original seller. However, the assignee's responsibility can't be more than the amount you still owe. Also, if the assignee faces any costs because of this, they can seek recovery from the original seller no matter what kind of transfer agreement they had.

(a) An assignee of the seller’s right is subject to all equities and defenses of the buyer against the seller, notwithstanding an agreement to the contrary, but the assignee’s liability may not exceed the amount of the debt owing to the assignee at the time of the assignment.

(b) The assignee shall have recourse against the seller to the extent of any liability incurred by the assignee pursuant to this section regardless of whether the assignment was with or without recourse.

assignee liability buyer defenses seller rights transfer debt limitation recourse against seller assignment agreement equities and defenses debt owing liability incurred assignment with recourse assignment without recourse

(Amended by Stats. 1975, Ch. 66.)

Section § 2983.6

If someone intentionally breaks any rule in this chapter, they can be charged with a misdemeanor, which is a less serious crime.

Any person who shall willfully violate any provision of this chapter shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

willfully violate misdemeanor criminal charge intentional action penalty legal violation Chapter provisions minor crime criminal responsibility legal consequences

(Added by Stats. 1968, Ch. 1338.)

Section § 2983.7

This law states that car sales contracts cannot include certain unfair clauses. These include prohibiting buyers from defending themselves against the seller, giving the seller undue legal power like confessing judgment or assigning wages, waiving the buyer's rights against illegal actions in payment collection or repossession, or forcing buyers to act as agents. Additionally, sellers cannot choose a court location unrelated to the buyer's residence or where the contract was signed or the car is parked.

No conditional sale contract shall contain any provision by which:

(a) The buyer agrees not to assert against the seller a claim or defense arising out of the sale or agrees not to assert against an assignee such a claim or defense.

(b) A power of attorney is given to confess judgment in this state, or an assignment of wages is given; provided, that nothing herein contained shall prohibit the giving of an assignment of wages contained in a separate instrument pursuant to Section 300 of the Labor Code.

(c) The buyer waives any right of action against the seller or holder of the contract or other person acting on his behalf, for any illegal act committed in the collection of payments under the contract or in the repossession of the motor vehicle.

(d) The buyer executes a power of attorney appointing the seller or holder of the contract, or other person acting on his behalf, as the buyer’s agent in the collection of payments under the contract or in the repossession of the motor vehicle.

(e) The buyer relieves the seller from liability for any legal remedies which the buyer may have against the seller under the contract or any separate instrument executed in connection therewith.

(f) The seller or holder of the contract is given the right to commence action on a contract under the provisions of this chapter in a county other than the county in which the contract was in fact signed by the buyer, the county in which the buyer resides at the commencement of the action, the county in which the buyer resided at the time the contract was entered into, or in the county in which the motor vehicle purchased pursuant to such contract is permanently garaged.

conditional sale contract buyer rights seller liability confess judgment assignment of wages illegal collection actions repossession waive rights power of attorney court venue restriction motor vehicle unfair contract terms county of action defense against seller

(Added by Stats. 1968, Ch. 1288.)

Section § 2983.8

This law says that a lender cannot demand extra money from borrowers beyond what they lost from selling certain items (like a mobile home or car) in two specific situations. First, they can't do this after selling a mobile home if the buyer didn't finish paying, except if the home is damaged beyond normal wear and tear. This applies to certain contracts from a specific past period. Second, they can't demand more money after selling a motor vehicle unless a court agrees the sale followed all necessary rules, usually based on paperwork, but sometimes requiring a hearing.

Notwithstanding Section 2983.2 or any other provision of law, no deficiency judgment shall lie in any event in any of the following instances:

(a) After any sale of any mobilehome for which a permit is required pursuant to Section 35780 or 35790 of the Vehicle Code for failure of the purchaser to complete his or her conditional sale contract given to the seller to secure payment of the balance of the purchase price of such mobilehome. The provisions of this subdivision shall not apply in the event there is substantial damage to the mobilehome other than wear and tear from normal usage. This subdivision shall apply only to contracts entered into on or after the effective date of the act that enacted this subdivision and before July 1, 1981.

(b) After any sale or other disposition of a motor vehicle unless the court has determined that the sale or other disposition was in conformity with the provisions of this chapter and the relevant provisions of Division 9 (commencing with Section 9101) of the Commercial Code, including Sections 9610, 9611, 9612, 9613, 9614, 9615, and 9626. The determination may be made upon an affidavit unless the court requires a hearing in the particular case.

deficiency judgment mobilehome sale conditional sale contract substantial damage normal wear and tear vehicle sale court determination Commercial Code provisions sale conformity hearing requirement affidavit motor vehicle disposition contracts before July 1 1981 permit requirement Section 35780 35790 Vehicle Code

(Amended by Stats. 1999, Ch. 991, Sec. 8. Effective January 1, 2000. Operative July 1, 2001, by Sec. 75 of Ch. 991.)

Section § 2984

If someone holding a contract makes a mistake according to this law, they can fix it. However, if the mistake was done on purpose, it can only be fixed if it's obvious in the contract and within certain time limits. A correction that raises the contract balance or payment needs the buyer's written approval. If the buyer points out an issue, it must be fixed within 10 days. Mistakes must be corrected by sending a new version of the contract to the buyer, and any wrongly taken money must be refunded or credited. Once fixed, the mistake won't affect the contract and can't be claimed for recovery by the buyer.

Any failure to comply with any provision of this chapter (commencing with Section 2981) may be corrected by the holder, provided, however, that a willful violation may not be corrected unless it is a violation appearing on the face of the contract and is corrected within 30 days of the execution of the contract or within 20 days of its sale, assignment or pledge, whichever is later, provided that the 20-day period shall commence with the initial sale, assignment or pledge of the contract, and provided that any other violation appearing on the face of the contract may be corrected only within such time periods. A correction which will increase the amount of the contract balance or the amount of any installment as such amounts appear on the conditional sale contract shall not be effective unless the buyer concurs in writing to the correction. If notified in writing by the buyer of such a failure to comply with any provision of this chapter, the correction shall be made within 10 days of notice. Where any provision of a conditional sale contract fails to comply with any provision of this chapter, the correction shall be made by mailing or delivering a corrected copy of the contract to the buyer. Any amount improperly collected by the holder from the buyer shall be credited against the indebtedness evidenced by the contract or returned to the buyer. A violation corrected as provided in this section shall not be the basis of any recovery by the buyer or affect the enforceability of the contract by the holder and shall not be deemed to be a substantive change in the agreement of the parties.

failure to comply holder correction willful violation time limits contract balance buyer concurrence written notice corrected contract copy improper collection credit or refund enforceability conditional sale contract substantive change buyer notification correction process

(Amended by Stats. 1963, Ch. 838.)

Section § 2984.1

This law section mandates that every conditional sale contract for buying a vehicle must contain a specific warning in red, bold type about the requirements for vehicle insurance coverage. This includes a statement about the minimum public liability insurance limits required by law, and advice to contact an insurance agent if unsure about coverage for a new vehicle. It warns that current policies might not cover collision damage or full replacement costs. If the buyer needs additional collision coverage, they should speak to an insurance agent or the selling dealer. However, coverage through the dealer typically only protects the dealer. Buyers must sign the contract to confirm they understand these conditions. The law prohibits using any sales contract form that fails to comply with these requirements.

Every conditional sale contract shall contain a statement in contrasting red print in at least 8-point bold type which shall satisfy the requirements of Section 5604 of the Vehicle Code and be signed or initialed by the buyer, as follows:

THE MINIMUM PUBLIC LIABILITY INSURANCE LIMITS PROVIDED IN LAW MUST BE MET BY EVERY PERSON WHO PURCHASES A VEHICLE. IF YOU ARE UNSURE WHETHER OR NOT YOUR CURRENT INSURANCE POLICY WILL COVER YOUR NEWLY ACQUIRED VEHICLE IN THE EVENT OF AN ACCIDENT, YOU SHOULD CONTACT YOUR INSURANCE AGENT.

WARNING:
YOUR PRESENT POLICY MAY NOT COVER COLLISION DAMAGE OR MAY NOT PROVIDE FOR FULL REPLACEMENT COSTS FOR THE VEHICLE BEING PURCHASED. IF YOU DO NOT HAVE FULL COVERAGE, SUPPLEMENTAL COVERAGE FOR COLLISION DAMAGE MAY BE AVAILABLE TO YOU THROUGH YOUR INSURANCE AGENT OR THROUGH THE SELLING DEALER. HOWEVER, UNLESS OTHERWISE SPECIFIED, THE COVERAGE YOU OBTAIN THROUGH THE DEALER PROTECTS ONLY THE DEALER, USUALLY UP TO THE AMOUNT OF THE UNPAID BALANCE REMAINING AFTER THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN REPOSSESSED AND SOLD.

FOR ADVICE ON FULL COVERAGE THAT WILL PROTECT YOU IN THE EVENT OF LOSS OR DAMAGE TO YOUR VEHICLE, YOU SHOULD CONTACT YOUR INSURANCE AGENT.

THE BUYER SHALL SIGN TO ACKNOWLEDGE THAT HE/SHE UNDERSTANDS THESE PUBLIC LIABILITY TERMS AND CONDITIONS.
s/s ____________.

No person shall print for use as a sales contract form, any form which does not comply with this section.

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(Amended by Stats. 1988, Ch. 177, Sec. 1.)

Section § 2984.2

This law states that in a conditional sale contract for a vehicle, the contract can't include a right to take ownership or place a claim (a lien) on any property other than the vehicle itself and a few related things. These include any replacement parts, the proceeds from insurance policies required by the seller, proceeds from buyer-purchased credit insurance policies, and any service contract proceeds. Also, certain exceptions are mentioned for specific cases or types of agreements, like those involving mobile homes pre-installed before July 1, 1981. If a contract goes against these rules, that part of the contract is considered invalid or void.

(a) No conditional sale contract, and no agreement between a seller and a buyer made in connection with a conditional sale contract, may provide for the inclusion of title to or a lien upon any property other than the following:

(1) The motor vehicle which is the subject matter of the sale, including any replacement of that motor vehicle, or accessories, accessions, or replacement of those accessories or accessions, or proceeds thereof.

(2) The proceeds of any insurance policies covering the motor vehicle which are required by the seller or the returned premiums of any such policies if the premiums for such policies are included in the amount financed.

(3) The proceeds of any credit insurance policies which the buyer purchases in connection with the motor vehicle conditional sale contract or the returned premiums of any such policies if the premiums for such policies are included in the amount financed.

(4) The proceeds and returned price of any service contract if the cost of such contract is included in the amount financed.

(b) Subdivision (a) shall not apply to any agreement which meets the requirements of subdivision (b) of Section 2982.5 and otherwise complies with this chapter, nor, with respect to a mobilehome sold prior to July 1, 1981, to any agreement whereby a security interest is taken in real property on which the mobilehome is installed on a foundation system pursuant to Section 18551 of the Health and Safety Code.

conditional sale contract motor vehicle lien vehicle accessories insurance proceeds credit insurance service contract proceeds real property mobilehome foundation system Health and Safety Code security interest agreement exceptions void provision financed premiums

(Amended by Stats. 1987, Ch. 1043, Sec. 1.)

Section § 2984.3

This law says that when buying a vehicle, anything the buyer acknowledges—like receiving a contract or proposal—must be clearly printed in big, bold letters near where they sign. If the buyer signs acknowledging receipt of these documents, it's assumed they got the papers unless proven otherwise. If a third party sends these documents to the buyer and the buyer doesn't say otherwise within 30 days, it's automatically assumed the buyer received them.

Any acknowledgment by the buyer of delivery of a copy of a conditional sale contract or purchase order and any vehicle purchase proposal and any credit statement that the seller has required or requested the buyer to sign, and that he or she has signed, during the contract negotiations, shall be printed or written in size equal to at least 10-point boldface type and, if contained in the contract, shall appear directly above the space reserved for the buyer’s signature or adjacent to any other notices required by law to be placed immediately above the signature space. The buyer’s written acknowledgment, conforming to the requirements of this section, of delivery of a completely filled-in copy of the contract, and a copy of the other documents shall be a rebuttable presumption of delivery in any action or proceeding by or against a third party without knowledge to the contrary when he or she acquired his or her interest in the contract. If the third party furnishes the buyer a copy of the documents, or a notice containing the disclosures identified in subdivision (a) of Section 2982, and stating that the buyer shall notify the third party in writing within 30 days if a copy of the documents was not furnished, and that notification is not given, it shall be conclusively presumed in favor of the third party that copies of the documents were furnished as required by this chapter.

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(Amended by Stats. 1994, Ch. 146, Sec. 15. Effective January 1, 1995.)

Section § 2984.4

This law explains where a legal case related to a contract or purchase order for a vehicle should be held. It states that the trial should occur in the county where the contract was signed, where the buyer lived when they signed, where they live when the case begins, or where the vehicle is kept. If there are multiple claims, as long as one claim relates to the contract, venue is appropriate. Moreover, it specifies which specific court location is suitable based on proximity and accessibility to these locations. The plaintiff must file an affidavit with the complaint, demonstrating that the case is in the correct court location. If not, the case may be dismissed. The court, however, may allow the affidavit to be filed later and served on the defendant, affecting when they must respond.

(a) An action on a contract or purchase order under this chapter shall be tried in the superior court in the county where the contract or purchase order was in fact signed by the buyer, where the buyer resided at the time the contract or purchase order was entered into, where the buyer resides at the commencement of the action, or where the motor vehicle purchased pursuant to the contract or purchase order is permanently garaged.

In any action involving multiple claims, or causes of action, venue shall lie in those courts if there is at least one claim or cause of action arising from a contract subject to this chapter.

(b) In the superior court designated as the proper court in subdivision (a), the proper court location for trial of an action under this chapter is the location where the court tries that type of action that is nearest or most accessible to where the contract, conditional sale contract, or purchase order was in fact signed by the buyer, where the buyer resided at the time the contract, conditional sale contract, or purchase order was entered into, where the buyer resides at the commencement of the action, or where the motor vehicle purchased pursuant to the contract is permanently garaged. Otherwise, any location of the superior court designated as the proper superior court in subdivision (a) is the proper court location for the trial of the action. The court may specify by local rule the nearest or most accessible court location where the court tries that type of case.

(c) In any action subject to this section, concurrently with the filing of the complaint, the plaintiff shall file an affidavit stating facts showing that the action has been commenced in a superior court and court location described in this section as a proper place for the trial of the action. Those facts may be stated in a verified complaint and shall not be stated on information or belief. When that affidavit is filed with the complaint, a copy shall be served with the summons. If a plaintiff fails to file the affidavit or state facts in a verified complaint required by this section, no further proceedings may occur, but the court shall, upon its own motion or upon motion of any party, dismiss the action without prejudice. The court may, on terms that are just, permit the affidavit to be filed subsequent to the filing of the complaint and a copy of the affidavit shall be served on the defendant. The time to answer or otherwise plead shall date from that service.

trial location motor vehicle purchase contract signing location buyer residence venue court location affidavit requirements dismissal without prejudice verified complaint superior court contract claims

(Amended by Stats. 2002, Ch. 806, Sec. 2. Effective January 1, 2003.)

Section § 2984.5

This law requires sellers to keep certain documents for at least seven years or longer, depending on the terms of the sales contract. They must retain copies of the buyer's conditional sales contract, documents used to assess the buyer's creditworthiness (like credit reports or scores), and records of any sale or transfer of the contract. If a seller fails to provide these documents when ordered by a court, they can face a $5,000 fine for each violation. These penalties are in addition to any other legal rights or remedies.

(a) A seller shall maintain the following documents for at least seven years or the length of the conditional sales contract, whichever is longer:

(1) A copy of each buyer’s conditional sales contract.

(2) Any documents relied upon by the seller to determine a buyer’s creditworthiness, including, but not limited to, any consumer credit report, as defined in Section 1785.3, or any other document containing a buyer’s credit score, as defined in Section 1785.15.1.

(3) If the conditional sales contract is sold, assigned, or otherwise transferred, a copy of the terms of that sale, assignment, or transfer.

(b) A seller that unlawfully fails to comply with a court order to produce the documents described in subdivision (a) shall be liable in an action brought by the Attorney General for a civil penalty of five thousand dollars ($5,000) per violation. The penalties provided by this section are in addition to all rights and remedies that are otherwise available under law.

conditional sales contract creditworthiness credit report credit score document retention court order compliance civil penalty Attorney General financial documents consumer protection credit assessment document preservation contract transfer seller obligations legal penalties

(Added by Stats. 2003, Ch. 59, Sec. 1. Effective January 1, 2004.)

Section § 2984.6

If someone who holds a sales contract or is involved in a security agreement is informed under a specific business code section, they can't pass on the job of tracking or repossessing a car to someone else without also sharing the important information they received with that person at the same time and in the same way. "Assignment" means the same as it does in the related business laws.

A holder of a conditional sales contract, purchase order, or security interest, or the agent of a holder, who has received a notice pursuant to Section 7507.6 of the Business and Professions Code, shall not make a subsequent assignment to skip trace, locate, or repossess the vehicle without simultaneously, and in the same manner by which the assignment is given, advising the assignee of the assignment of the information contained in the notice. As used in this section, “assignment” has the same meaning set forth in Section 7500.1 of the Business and Professions Code.

conditional sales contract vehicle repossession notice requirement Business and Professions Code assignment skip trace locate the vehicle security interest assignee information disclosure Section 7507.6 holder purchase order conditional sales vehicle tracking

(Added by Stats. 2007, Ch. 192, Sec. 4. Effective September 7, 2007.)

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Lien

Chapter 2bAutomobile Sales Finance Act

Section § 2981

Section § 2981.5

Section § 2981.7

Section § 2981.8

Section § 2981.9

Section § 2982

Section § 2982.1

Section § 2982.10

Section § 2982.11

Section § 2982.12

Section § 2982.2

Section § 2982.3

Section § 2982.5

Section § 2982.7

Section § 2982.8

Section § 2982.9

Section § 2983

Section § 2983.1

Section § 2983.2

Section § 2983.3

Section § 2983.35

Section § 2983.37

Section § 2983.4

Section § 2983.5

Section § 2983.6

Section § 2983.7

Section § 2983.8

Section § 2984

Section § 2984.1

Section § 2984.2

Section § 2984.3

Section § 2984.4

Section § 2984.5

Section § 2984.6

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