From tariffs on imported cars and automotive parts to rising auto loan delinquencies, consumers are navigating an increasingly fraught auto landscape, according to VantageScore’s February 2025 CreditGauge.
The February CreditGauge insights also show the average credit score for Americans declining to 701 from 702 the month before. Getting approved for a car loan requires a strong credit score, often in the “superprime” range from 780 to 850. As car loan delinquencies remain at decade-high levels, lenders may be especially strict when considering applicants.
Meanwhile, the VantageScore February 2025 CreditGauge shows that auto loan delinquencies increased across all Days Past Due (DPD) categories, both year-over- year and compared to pre-pandemic levels. Consumers had difficulty staying current on their auto loans and reducing their account balances.
CreditGauge is VantageScore’s monthly analysis of U.S. consumer credit health. Catch up on the latest CreditGauge insights here.
