The percentage of auto-loan applications by prime borrowers that were approved rose to 91% in December from 82% a year earlier, said CNW Research.

WSJ: Banks Loosen Purse Strings

Borrowers who are behind on their student loan debts are far more likely to also be late on auto-loan, credit-card and mortgage payments, according to the report.

WSJ: Student-Loan Delinquencies Among the Young Soar

Morgan, auto-loan originations fell 19% year-over-year, due to more competition.

WSJ: Banks Loosen Purse Strings

It includes -- both sides include very strong consumer protections, which in many ways is where middle-class families interact with the financial system -- getting an auto loan, getting a college loan, getting a credit card.

WHITEHOUSE: Press Briefing

The consumer-loan uptick is most pronounced in the auto sector, where the dollar value of loans originated last year topped the 2009 total, Equifax estimates.

WSJ: Banks Loosen Purse Strings

"We are now actively calling on Congress to pass legislation next week that will amend the loan program and help accelerate much-needed funds to auto companies that can show long-term viability, " says White House spokeswoman Elizabeth Chervenak.

FORBES: Magazine Article

For example, FICO scoring models treat any inquiries within a 30-day period as one, if made for a mortgage, auto or student loan.

FORBES: Credit Scores Often Unreliable, Warns Consumer Financial Protection Bureau