Buying the car of your dreams isn’t cheap. And for most buyers, financing the vehicle is a necessity. But before you go to a dealership or an online car retailer, know your options and how you can save.
First, check your credit scores to make sure you qualify for an auto loan. Then, shop around for the best interest rate. Many lenders have minimum credit score requirements, but some work with people who may have bankruptcies or repossessions in their credit histories. You’ll also want to consider whether you’re getting a new or used car and what your budget is. Then, decide if an auto loan or a lease makes the most sense for your budget.
Auto loans typically have a fixed interest rate and a set repayment term. But the APR (or annual percentage rate) you pay can vary based on other factors, including your credit rating, the amount of money you borrow and the length of the loan.
A personal loan might be a better option for some shoppers who want to finance a new or used car. With a personal loan, you’ll still build equity in the car and at some point own a larger percentage of it than what you owe on it. Unlike leasing, a personal loan typically includes simple interest costs, not compound interest, which can make your payments grow faster.
You can get preapproved for a car loan before you head to the dealership by applying online or with a lender like Carvana, which performs a credit check and provides you with personalized loan terms on every vehicle it shows. It’s also helpful to ask dealers for a written “out-the-door” price on vehicles you’re interested in, which includes the vehicle’s price, taxes and fees. cars on finance