On the Dash: Credit availability climbed to its highest level since November 2015, giving dealers a stronger financing environment heading into fall. Captives, banks and finance companies all expanded credit access, while credit unions slipped slightly. Longer loan terms and rising negative equity helped more shoppers qualify, but dealers should watch affordability and borrower risk. The Dealertrack Credit Availability Index increased for the fourth consecutive month in August, with the All-Loans Index rising 0.4% to 105.3. This is a 7.7% rise from the previous year and marks the highest level since November 2015. The boost gives dealers a more favorable financing environment heading into the fall sales season, driven mainly by…
