5 Steps to Get an Auto Loan

When you’re looking to buy a vehicle, the first step should be applying for a preapproved loan. Though the loan process might seem daunting, it’s easier than you think, and getting preapproval before visiting a car dealer can alleviate much frustration.

Here are five steps for securing a car loan:

1. Check Your Credit

Before applying for a loan, review your credit report. Better credit translates to cheaper borrowing costs and easier access to auto financing. A higher credit score and a strong credit history can secure you lower loan interest rates and possibly lower auto insurance premiums.

Examine your credit report for any unusual activity and dispute any errors, such as incorrect balances or late payments. To boost a lower credit score, pay off credit card balances or smaller loans. While a low score won’t prevent you from getting a loan, it may result in a higher interest rate. Consider improving your credit score before applying for loans to secure better rates.

2. Know Your Budget

Having a budget and knowing what car payment you can afford is essential. Ensure your car payment aligns with your other financial goals. For instance, you might afford $400 a month, but that amount could detract from your savings goals.

If you don’t have a budget, start by calculating your monthly income after taxes and subtracting your regular expenses and savings goals. For irregular bills, like annual subscriptions, divide the yearly cost by 12 and add the monthly amount to your budget. Trim your spending if necessary to create room for a car payment.

Plan for additional car costs, such as vehicle registration, insurance, and maintenance. By understanding your budget, you’ll know how much you can comfortably spend on a car payment.

3. Determine How Much You Can Afford

Once you have a clear picture of your finances, determine a reasonable monthly car payment. A common rule is to spend no more than 10% of your take-home income on a vehicle. For example, if you earn $60,000 annually after taxes, limit your car payments to $500 per month.

Use an auto loan calculator to determine the largest loan you can afford by entering your desired monthly payment, interest rate, and loan period. Remember, a larger down payment can reduce your monthly payments. Also, consider how long you want to repay the loan. While longer loan terms result in lower monthly payments, they increase the total interest paid and extend the time you may owe more than the car’s worth.

4. Get Preapproved

Before visiting a car dealership, get preapproved for a car loan. Research potential loans and compare terms, durations, and interest rates to find the best deal. Check with local banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Preapproved loans are only valid for a limited time, so apply when you’re ready to shop for a car.

Applying for a loan triggers a credit check, which can lower your credit score slightly, so keep all loan applications within a 14-day period to minimize the impact. Preapproval indicates your eligibility, the loan amount, and the interest rate you qualify for, helping you know your budget before visiting a dealership. Note that preapproved loans aren’t final; the actual loan amount may be less based on the car you purchase.

If preapproval isn’t possible, consider a larger down payment or ask someone to cosign the loan. A cosigner commits to repaying the loan if you default, providing the lender additional assurance.

5. Go Shopping

With preapproval in hand, start shopping for your vehicle. Research cars that are reliable and fit your budget. Consider factors like size, color, gas mileage, and features. Resources like Consumer Reports offer reviews to help you choose the best car.

Investigate the car’s value using sites like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds to avoid overpaying. Compare prices at different dealerships and check for dealer incentives and rebates.

Final Steps

By following these steps, you’ll be prepared to make a sound financial decision when getting a car loan. Even if you aren’t ready to buy a car immediately, it’s wise to stay prepared. Start by obtaining a free copy of your credit report.

Check your credit reports annually to ensure their accuracy and dispute any errors with the credit bureaus. Each credit report can differ, so obtain all three. For regular credit monitoring, consider tools like Credit.com’s free Credit Report Card, which provides an easy-to-understand summary of your credit report with letter grades.