auto loan rates

Expand the description and view the text of the steps for this how-to video. Check out Howcast for other do-it-yourself videos from Dynamic and more videos in the Car Finance category. You can contribute too! Create your own DIY guide at www.howcast.com or produce your own Howcast spots with the Howcast Filmmakers Program at www.howcast.com Make sure you get the best possible terms on your car loan by doing your homework. To complete this How-To you will need: Your credit rating A pre-approved car loan Math skills On-time payments A down payment (optional) Step 1: Get your credit rating Request a copy of your credit report by logging onto annualcreditreport.com or by calling 1-877-322-8228. You are entitled to one free copy per year. Car loans are based on your credit rating, so make sure there are no mistakes. Tip: Try to scrape together a down payment of at least 15 percent, which will greatly reduce your financing costs. Step 2: Shop before you shop Once you figure out how much you can afford to spend on a monthly payment, and before you set foot on a car lot, get a bank or credit union to pre-approve you for a car loan. Tip: Search online for sites that compare current auto-loan rates. Step 3: Focus on the APR When comparing loans, focus on the APR—annual percentage rate—rather than the monthly payment. It’s more important to have a low interest rate, as long as you can make the payment each month. Tip: Resist the temptation to finance a car for longer than 48 months …

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