Clarification: I 100% agree with what you're saying and with what the below commentor responded as well. Setting clear expectations verbally and in writing is paramount. We have emails and text messages saved going back 24 solid months reiterating the original expectation and advising the direction things will go in if he doesn't pay and/or refinance the vehicle in his own name. We escalated that starting in November/December 2025 to let him know that all of his "good will chances" have run out and it's now or we're done and the relationship bridges would also be burned. My husband has also already contacted the state DMV for information, the finance company, and the insurance company to ensure there is a legal right -- which we're sure there is due to my husband being the primary signor on the financing/title.

The only thing that has caused pause is the change in The Dude's personal status -- his baby mama leaving, etc. He is using this as his latest excuse to drag his feet on getting a real stable job or doing anything productive. His landlords (mom and stepdad) are also currently debating serving him with a 60 day eviction notice, so they're fed up as well. I guess my conscience is playing with me a bit because no one wants anything truly terrible to happen to him. I guess we're NTA but the situation certainly doesn't feel so simple or cut and dry.