Ford seeks patent to repossess cars remotely

Ford has applied for a patent for technology that lets vehicles repossess themselves.

If owners ignore warnings about missed payments, the system starts by disabling features such as GPS, air conditioning, cruise control and the radio.

It could emit irritating sounds when the driver is there.

Next, it could lock the owner out.

If the owner still doesn't act, the vehicle may drive itself to a spot for a tow truck to pick it up or to an impound lot, repossession agency or lending institution.

If repossession costs more than the vehicle is worth, it could drive itself to a junkyard.