Car loan balances in Utah are among the nation's highest. Here's a way to minimize your debt

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Utah ranks fifth in the U.S. for rising car loan balances, averaging $20,849, a WalletHub study said.

WalletHub's Chip Lupo warns of increased default risks due to high auto debt.

Experts advise possibly refinancing or pre-shopping loans to manage debt and avoid overspending.

SALT LAKE CITY — The average price that drivers pay for their cars has never been higher. Now, Utahns are also carrying nearly the fastest-growing car loan debt in the nation.

Utahns are now carrying an average balance of $20,849 for their wheels. According to WalletHub, that's a jump of 1.49% in the last three months alone. That's enough to rank Utah as the fifth highest in the country for the biggest jump in car loan balances. Most states saw their car loan balanc