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Elevate Credit Union
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Elevate Credit Union
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When 0% Interest Isn’t your Best Auto Loan

When it comes to auto loans, a 0% interest rate is a head-turner, but it’s not always the best deal.

Car dealerships generally advertise 0% offers in the summer when they’re looking to make room in the showroom for newer models. The offers come from the financing arms of the large auto manufacturers, which unlike traditional lenders, profit directly off the sale of the car and don’t necessarily need the interest revenue.

But like any great deal—there’s a catch. According to The New York Times, only about 10% of consumers actually qualify for 0% interest loans, which require pristine credit—usually a FICO score of 720 or higher. Those loans typically are reserved for a limited number of models and are not available if you’re shopping for a used car—which cost less than newer models.

These 0% loans often are paired with shorter-term loans, which cost you less overall but mean a higher monthly payment. So, before you head to the dealership chasing a 0% loan, keep these points in mind:

1. Look at all available deals.

Check for other offers, such as cashback. If you can get a rebate—which lowers the overall price of the car—paired with a low-interest loan, it may save you more than the 0% financing. Be sure to crunch the numbers with an online calculator: http://bit.ly/CarloanCalculator 

 

2. Negotiate the price.

Before you get to the interest rate, finalize a sale price and stick to it. Don’t feel pressured to accept expensive add-ons. Once the sale price is established, then talk about financing; and

 

3. Get preapproved for a loan at your credit union.

Heading to the dealership with a firm offer in hand will give you a point of comparison and puts you in a stronger negotiating position. Credit unions, as not-for-profit financial cooperatives, offer competitive rates.

While Elevate Credit Union may not be able to offer 0% interest rates, we can help you get into a car that you can afford at a great rate. Getting preapproved for a car loan will save you interest at the dealers and it puts you in control. Make sure you know before you go! Get preapproved today! You can apply online here: Apply Online or come into one of our two branches and speak to our helpful team members. Find out more here: Auto Loans.

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