When it comes to buying a car, the process can seem complicated. There are many options, but very few ways to find out which one is best for you. Yet, most of us need a car to get to work and earn a living. This is where auto-financing comes in. Try thinking of a car loan as another purchase. It comes at a cost, payable through any interest and fees charged by a lender.
So how does car financing work? How does your credit health affect your finance options for a car? Is financing a car a good idea? Read on to find useful answers.
How Does Car Financing Work?
A financial institution lends you money to buy the car you want. In exchange, you pay the interest and other additional fees over a specified period. You can get a car loan from banks, credit unions, online lenders, finance companies, and even car dealerships.
Begin by shopping around for the best deals and apply for a loan. Once you get approved, you’ll make monthly payments until the loan is paid off. Each payment will be split into the principal amount, the interest payment, and additional fees that might be due. Once you repay the loan completely, you should get a release document and your car’s title in your name.
How Healthy Does Your Credit Need to Be?
There isn’t one universal number that will work every time. Each lender sets their minimum credit scores and appetite for risk. Still, the average credit score was 718 for new-car loans and 662 for used-car loans at the tail end of 2019. Building your credit before applying for car financing is an excellent idea so that you get more offers, pay lower interest, and get approved quickly.
Is It a Good Idea?
Well, that depends on how you are financially placed. While paying in cash is best, financing may be your best and the only option sometimes. Pay attention to how much you finance versus the value of the car you’re buying and make the biggest downpayment you can afford. This is so that you don’t end up paying more than the vehicle is worth in a couple of years.