The Journal. The Repo Man Is Busier Than Ever
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Nov 14, 2025 
In this engaging discussion, Scott Calvert, a WSJ reporter, shares his firsthand experiences riding alongside repo men in a rapidly growing industry. They delve into the factors behind the surge in car repossessions, from rising prices and stagnant wages to the warning signs reminiscent of the Great Recession. Scott also explores the tech tools aiding repo efforts, the intense grind of night shifts, and the safety risks agents face, including tense confrontations with vehicle owners. Their insights reveal how repossession trends serve as a stark reflection of the current economic landscape.
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Quick Nighttime Repo Capture
- Scott rode along with George Dowdy during a night shift as they located and towed a Chevy Trax in under a minute.
- George verified plates and VIN, hooked the car, and radioed the office before driving it back to the lot.
Car Costs Fuel Rising Delinquencies
- High used-car prices and longer loans pushed many buyers into payments they can't sustain amid stagnant wages and inflation.
- That economic pressure explains rising delinquencies and more cars becoming eligible for repossession.
Repo Rates Near Recession Levels
- U.S. vehicle repossessions reached about 1.73 million last year, the most since 2009, signaling broad financial stress.
- That count makes the current repo activity a warning sign comparable to recession-era distress.