I certify that I, or the firm, company, or corporation I am authorized to represent, am the legal owner within the meaning of California Vehicle Code. The first step is to fill out an FTC Fraud Affidavit, from the Federal Trade Commission website.You must receive notice of the sale before the vehicle is sold. Return of Personal Property: The lienholder is generally required to return any personal property found in the repossessed vehicle to you. California law permits cars to be repossessed after one late or missed loan payment. Cars may be repossessed after missed insurance payments as well. 1. Enter the lienholder's name and address. Well the short answer is this: The car has a lien on it from the financial lender and once you default it becomes their legal property. Under California law, a repossession agency must give you a notice of seizure within 48 hours of taking the car. Need help with a car repossession?