Our reviewers evaluate products and services based on unbiased research. Top Consumer Reviews may earn money when you click on a link. Learn more about our process.

What To Look For When Shopping For An Auto Loan

Monday, February 10th

What to Look for When Shopping for an Auto Loan

Shopping for another vehicle can be a very stressful experience. Finding a vehicle you can afford and that meets your needs is a tough combination in this economy. Nothing complicates the process more than finding a loan with an interest rate that you can afford.

While individuals shopping for a new vehicle will spend days or weeks looking for the best deal for their money, they often do not put the same kind of research and time into the loan they will use to finance their purchase.

Auto dealers are not interested in getting you the best interest rate or the best deal for you. They are interested only in selling a vehicle and will put their interests ahead of your own. That's why it's best to have resources and knowledge prior to shopping for a vehicle.

So what do you look for when shopping for an auto loan?

For most shoppers, the ultimate goal when looking for a good deal on an auto loan is to find a monthly payment that is affordable to them. However, focusing solely on a monthly payment that is within your price range is a mistake if you fail to factor in the other loan terms, including the interest rate. With a high interest rate, in conjunction with payments that are spread out over five years or more, it can actually end up costing twice as much to finance a vehicle as the vehicle actually is worth. While higher monthly payments up front may seem like a bad deal, they actually save you money in the long run by lowering the amount you repay in interest.

So the first piece of advice when shopping for auto loans is to look at all factors, not just a monthly payment.

Now that you understand which financial factors to look for when shopping for an auto loan, we can discuss the best options for finding a good deal.

The best place to start looking for an auto loan is through online auto loan stores. These sites have access to a variety of bank car loan rates and can automatically deliver the best loan deal to you. Organizations like TopConsumerReviews.com have reviewed and ranked the best online auto loan stores available today. You can save time and money by checking out these reviews prior to making your auto loan decision.

Another place to look for an auto loan is your own financial institution. If you are a longtime customer in good financial standing with your financial institution, they may negotiate with you for a loan at a decent interest rate. Local banks and credit unions are known for their ability to provide good loan rates for long-time customers.

Most bank websites provide information on their current loan rates. Individuals can take that information, and then compare it with what is listed on other websites to determine what interest rates they can find no their own. There are online tools available where you can enter your zip code to find out the current interest rates for your area. You can find out what your monthly payment would be, as well as accrued interest payments, over the term of the loan.

The last place to consider securing a loan is through the auto dealer; however, this is usually the most expensive option. While auto dealers may have a variety of financial institutions to tap in order to get a variety of interest rates and offers, they also tend to add a fee on to the total in order to compensate themselves for securing the loan. So as a general rule, auto dealers should be the last place you look for a loan.

The Best Auto Loan Companies Compare Auto Loan Companies Compare Auto Loan Company Reviews What are the best Auto Loan Companies Best Auto Loan Company Reviews

Auto Loan Company FAQ

Most auto loans are funded by smaller banks and credit unions. But, as you look for an affordable auto loan, you might see some familiar names like Capital One and Southeast Financial.
That depends on several factors, including your credit history and the amount you need to borrow. Searching for a car loan online gives you the advantage of comparison "shopping" for the best rate available to you.
No problem! There are many lenders that are willing to work with you even if your credit score isn't the best. You'll probably pay higher interest rates than a borrower with an 800+ credit score, but you'll still be able to get a loan.
When you request a rate quote online, most lenders perform a "soft pull" of your credit history: checking the information you provide against the credit bureaus' records to verify your identity. That doesn't affect your credit score. But, if you go through the entire process and actually submit a loan application, it'll temporarily lower your score.
You can get an auto loan without ever setting foot in a bank! Many of us have used a car dealer to obtain financing but, obtaining a car loan online is a smart and empowering option.
Auto loans are available in amounts ranging from $1000 to $100,000. To determine your eligibility for a loan, the lenders will take into account your credit history, current debts, and income.
Is 24 hours soon enough? While most auto loans take a few days to a week to be funded and deposited to your account, at least one lender has a one-day turnaround for most customers.
No, not when you choose a reputable provider! It's easy to find an auto loan from a lender with a strong reputation. Positive customer comments and a high rating from the Better Business Bureau are two indicators that the company is a trustworthy option for your loan.
See the Best Auto Loan Company
The Best Reviews of Auto Loan Companies