Auto Loan Delinquencies Climbed in 2Q, ABA Says

Consumer loan delinquencies are still on the rise, as evidenced by the American Bankers Association’s latest Consumer Credit Delinquency Bulletin. Nine of 11 loan categories ―including auto, RV, and marine ― showed slightly higher delinquencies in the second quarter, according to the ABA.

For autos, 30-day late payments inched up 3 basis points from the prior quarter, to 1.23%, for direct loans; delinquencies grew to 2.89% from 2.72% for indirect loans. For non-autos, the delinquency rate rose to 1.42% from 1.26% on RV loans, and to 1.83% from 1.76% on marine loans.

The bank card category was one of two with improved performance, as delinquencies fell 18 basis points to 3.22%.

Overall, the increase in delinquencies reflects continuing pressures as consumers navigate the consequences of high unemployment, rising gas prices, and a struggling economy, said ABA Chief Economist James Chessen.

The chart below tracks ABA delinquency rates for auto, marine, and RV loans. While delinquencies for direct loans are still at record lows, delinquencies for indirect loans, as well as the non-auto categories, are headed back toward the highs recorded during the credit crisis.