The initial stages of applying for an auto loan are similar to the process of applying for any other form of unsecured credit. The most important decision to make before buying your new car is whether to shop by lender or dealer. If you find a car at a dealership that insists you use a specific lender, the terms may be less favorable than those offered by a major bank. Authorized Dealer Many lenders will lend you money to buy a car only if...