If you’re having trouble making car payments, you should reach out to your lender immediately. Your lender might be able to work with you to allow slightly delayed payments or even a revision of your payment schedule in extenuating circumstances.
If you know that you will be unable to make your car payments even with negotiation, you can voluntarily return the vehicle, which may allow you to pay less in fees than you would in an involuntary repossession.  However, if you choose voluntary repossession, you may still be responsible for paying what’s owed on the loan after the vehicle is resold.