Tips for Auto Loans, Car Finance, and Auto Refinance

Many auto financing and loan companies allow you to apply online or over the phone.

Whether you're looking for a loan for a new or used car, or possibly looking to refinance an existing loan, you may be able to save hundreds or thousands of dollars by applying online.

One advantage provided by online lenders is the speed of application approvals. You can apply online and often receive approval in less than a day. Upon approval, lenders will often send you a check that you may use to purchase your new car. Read on for important auto financing tips.

Auto Loan Tips

Before applying for an auto loan, there are several things that you should keep in mind:

• Your credit score. Your score/history can determine whether you qualify for a loan and what interest rate you will pay. If you're not sure about your score/history (and even if you think you are), you should probably check to make sure that there are no mistakes. You can get a free credit report here. If you have poor credit, there are companies that may lend you money, but be prepared to pay high interest rates.

• Compare rates. Get several quotes before you buy your car. Rates vary and there is no sense paying a dollar more than you have to.

• Gather required information. Lenders will require you to provide your name and address, social security number, employer information (company you work for and salary). They will also require your financial information such as whether you own or rent a home, how much your payment is, how much money you own on credit cards, etc..

Key financing questions
"The single most important thing you can do to ensure you get the best financing deal for your new car is to ask questions. Lots of questions."
By Paige Kroger - Bankrate.com

How to negotiate the best loan with the car dealer
"It doesn't take a rocket scientist to get a good car loan through a dealer, but it does take some preparation, says Joseph Moran, senior vice president of Detroit-based Comerica Bank's national dealer services, which loans money to car dealers."
By Stephen Rothman - Bankrate.com

Buying your first new car
"No more automotive hand-me-downs. No more junkers. It's time to buy your first, brand-spanking-new car."
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Selling your old vehicle
"When you decide to sell your old car yourself, there are some simple procedures and rules of thumb that will help get the job done right."
By Paige Kroger - Bankrate.com