Cox Automotive's Dealertrack Credit Availability Index revealed improved auto credit availability across all channels and lender types in December 2024. The All-Loans Index reached 95.5, marking a 0.2% uptick from November and a 1.9% increase year-over-year. This represents the highest level of auto credit access since March 2023, indicating a positive shift in lending conditions. Several key factors drove this increase in credit availability, contributing to a more favorable environment for both consumers and lenders. First, approval rates significantly increased by 40 basis points (BPs) in December. This uptick suggests that more consumers are being approved for auto loans, and...