Cox Automotive’s August 2026 Dealertrack Credit Availability Index (published Sept. 10) shows auto credit access at its highest level since November 2015. The All-Loans Index rose to 105.3 (+0.4% from July; +7.7% year over year). That headline is about access—not a lower payment quote on your specific car.
Two structures did a lot of the work: the share of loans longer than 72 months hit a dataset record 31.3%, and loans with negative equity rose to 57.4% (+60 basis points from July; +390 basis points versus August 2025). Average contract rate also moved to 10.99%. Longer terms and rolled-in balances can shrink the monthly number while stretching total cost and the time you stay underwater.
If you are trading or selling a paid-down (or upside-down) vehicle in Texas, one desk’s trade pencil is still just one opinion. National credit-structure averages do not equal what your VIN appraises for after a walk-around.
How competing offers work on PriceForMyTrade: competition is handled manually, dealers contact you directly, and first responses are typically the same day—not guaranteed. Offers are confirmed after a physical appraisal. Dealers can buy outright; you do not have to purchase another vehicle. Submitting takes about 30 seconds. The service is free to the seller; participating dealerships pay for enquiries.
That is not an instant online valuation. Still owe money? Read selling a car with a loan payoff. Comparing trade credit versus cash? See trade-in vs selling outright. East Texas sellers can start at sell my car East Texas.
Takeaway: August’s longer terms and higher negative-equity share explain how many deals close—not what your car is worth. Shop competing dealer conversations, then let appraisal confirm.