Services
Insurance
Loans
Repairs
Advice
About

What does a null-and-void car loan mean?

I traded in my old car for a used vehicle worth $4,000. I've been driving the car for a few days. Then the dealer called me, saying financing fell through and the loan is null and void. What does this mean?

avatar
Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
“If the loan is null and void, that means it’s no longer a legally binding document. Because of that, you technically don’t own the car anymore. As a result, you’ll have to take it back to the dealership.
However, you should get your down payment (if any) returned and credit for the value of your trade-in. Unfortunately, you’ll be without a car for a while. It’s in your best interest to find out why the loan fell through and what you can do to secure financing.
In the future, make sure to get pre-approval before you go car shopping. This is a rare instance where the dealer let you drive away before approving you for financing. Be wary of such dealers in the future and go to a bank or credit union for financing.”
View full answer 
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings