Credit unions may be gearing up to assist members even more given that the sale of new cars experienced a 25% increase in January.

That's the assessment from John Lederer, president/CEO of the $1 billion Credit Union of Texas, who said that with the recovery, credit unions are poised to empower their members with advice and assistance better than ever before, the Texas Credit Union League reported.

"The auto market does appear to be rebounding to some degree, but the competition for auto financing has become much more competitive," Lederer said. "As a result, this is a great opportunity with regard to refinancing loans once consumers get to take a careful look at comparative financing. We make ourselves available to explain dealer incentives before the member makes their purchase, but we also work to improve their position if they have financed elsewhere."