According to a report from Experian Automotive, in the first quarter of 2012, U.S. lenders gave car buyers some of the easiest credit terms since the financial crisis began in 2007. The easing of standards and terms was a result of renewed competition to provide more loans to borrowers they see as “safe” risks. The lenders also provided more money to people with subprime credit scores, cut interest rates and granted more time to repay, according to Experian’s report. In a sign of economic rebound, rates of late payments and repossessions by lenders also declined in the first quarter. While the relaxed terms make it easier for individuals to buy cars, the more aggressive lending also increases the chances of another round of losses for banks, if borrowers lose their jobs and cannot keep up their car payments.