The key bit of information that you have to consider when dealing with any "finance" company is knowing your own situation. CNAC has a very strict payment policy for a reason. They deal in a very bad "sub-prime" consumer market. That means that 85%, or more, of their customer base can not get approved financing from another lender. They finance people with bad credit and bankruptcy. They have to protect themselves by ensuring they have a very strict payment policy. I see all the time that people complain about buying a car from a company and they were overcharged. Well, if you knew your buying power, then you would never be over charged. If you have to go to a car dealership that does self financing then maybe you should get all of your other affairs in order (i.e. credit) before purchasing a vehicle. If you "need" a car and have to go to a "self financing" car dealership, then you just have to deal with the policies. Now, obviously, they shouldn't be taking items from your vehicle or holding your house keys for a weekend, but you signed the contract. It states they have no tolerance for late payments. You have to deal with it. Prioritize your life and become a better money manager, that's the key to success consumer purchases. Oh, and in regards to it being open on your credit report, if you still owe them a balance, even if it was charged off, it is still going to show on your credit report as open. Good luck.