How Fast Auto Financing Works
Get everything you need to know about securing fast auto financing right here. Here are the five basic steps to fast auto financing. If you want to do your car shopping online, see our Online Car Shopping Guide page.
- Prepare. This is the step where you get started on your fast auto financing. You'll want to do your homework first to understand what you want and how you'd like to pay for it. Here are some tips for the preparation stage:
- Make a budget
- Check your credit report and know your credit score
- Decide on a new or used car
- Determine if you want to buy or lease
- Assess your needs and wants to narrow down your car options
- Go shopping. This step involves not only shopping for your car, but also for fast auto financing and insurance as well. A good way to approach this step is to do some general car shopping to narrow the field down to one or two cars. Once you know the approximate price range of how much your options cost, you can then apply for fast auto financing for that amount. Don't worry if your actual purchase comes out to less than the prequalification amount-you will only pay back what the car costs. Don't forget to begin comparing insurance rates for your new car, as it may influence your final decision.
- The purchase. When you've decided on the car for you and have secured fast auto financing, it's time to buy. Follow these tips:
- Always approach dealer negotiations with prearranged financing
- Don't look too eager...time is on your side
- Never opt for 0% financing. Take the cash rebate instead.
- Invest in an extended warranty only if your monthly budget is too tight to cover repairs every now and then