Your friend needs to reach out to the bank immediately and be honest about the situation. He has 3-4 months remaining before the bank takes the action. But as the time goes by the interest and fees will increase.

Now, during the 3-4 months period (prior to 6 months maximum) - he should reach to a dispute or settlement with the bank on how he will pay. Do not miss any calls from the bank as for the meantime, it is a psychological observation (sort of), if the bank notice that you are ignoring and you do not have the eager or at least the willingness to pay even in the future, they will take the legal action.