If a car loan lender can't repossess a vehicle, it will probably get possession of the car through a process called "replevin." While repossession does not involve a formal process in court, replevin consists of getting the court to order the consumer to return the vehicle to the lender.The legal procedures for vehicle repossession? Is it necessary for the repossession company to knock on the door before entering the property? How do I fight car repossession or replevin from a auto title company threating me? They don't want to wait 10 days. This page will provide an overview of California's Repossession Laws and what you should know if you've fallen behind on car payments. In most locations, and laws do vary so it may not apply in all, repo companies will notify the police after they have repossessed the car. If you default on your car loan payments, the lender can take your car back through repossession or replevin. Learn the difference.