Wednesday, May 20, 2009

What to Know About Automobile Financing

Getting approved for automobile financing can prove necessary when buying a new car -- especially if you don't have cash to pay for a car outright. Acquiring a good deal on an automobile financing package impacts the monthly payment on the car loan. Before meeting with a dealer, educate yourself on different financing options available to you.

Credit and Interest Rates

    Getting the lowest possible payment on your new auto loan involves having a good credit score. A good score persuades auto financing companies to assign a low interest rate on the loan, and this single factor can have a huge impact on how much you spend each month. A good credit score includes a number within the 700 and higher range, says Experian.com. Improve your credit before applying for automobile financing by paying your bills on time and getting rid of credit card debts and other loans.

Auto Loan Term

    Spreading out an auto loan term for 60 months will reduce the monthly payment on the loan. However, you will pay more money in interest over the life of the loan. Pay off an auto loan sooner and acquire a better finance rate by choosing a loan term that's less than five years. Compare the monthly payment for a three- or four-year car loan term to see if you can afford the higher payment. If so, consider a reduced loan term to eliminate the debt quicker.

Comparing Financing Deals

    Talk with more than one bank when seeking automobile financing. Lenders vary, as do the interest rate on automobile loans. Finance companies working with the dealership may increase the rate for the bank and the dealership to make money. On the other, going directly to your personal bank and acquiring automobile financing may result in a cheaper rate because you eliminate compensating the middleman -- the dealership. Get a quote from the dealership's finance department, and then compare this information with quotes from other banks or credit unions.

Understanding the Loan Agreement

    Do not agree to a car loan agreement without completely reading the document and understanding the terms of the agreement. Look at the final price for the vehicle, the loan term, the interest rate and the monthly payment. Ask questions if you're unclear. Agreements may include optional products financed into the loan amount such as gap insurance and extended warranties. Decline these products and have them taken off the agreement before signing. Once you sign the loan agreement, you're obligated to satisfy or make payments on the loan.

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