Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (2024)

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (1)Written by

Rebecca Betterton

Rebecca Betterton

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (2)Edited by

Pippin Wilbers

Pippin Wilbers

As of April 16, 2024

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Make sure you arrive on the dealership lot with a plan for financing your car. Auto loans are secured loans that help borrowers pay for a new or used car. They are available from dealerships and lenders. It is important to shop around to find the best interest rates and terms for your vehicle.

Bankrate’s best auto loans are selected based on a lender’s available rates and terms, customer experience and transparency. Explore the details to determine which vehicle financing option is right for you.

  • To get the auto loan that’s right for your situation, follow these steps:

    1

    Determine your auto loan budget.

    The first step is to understand what you can truly afford. Consider your current finances along with loan and vehicle upkeep costs to find this number.

    2

    Check your credit report.

    The better your credit score is, the more competitive your rates will likely be. Use your credit score to guide which lenders make the most sense to apply to — based on lender requirements.

    3

    Apply for auto loan preapproval.

    With auto loan preapproval you can lock in a rate before shopping for your car. This extended period allows you time to compare vehicle options and help with negotiating at the dealership.

    4

    Shop for your car.

    Make use of online reviews found on sites like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds to confirm the vehicle meets your needs along with any lender restrictions.

    5

    Compare dealership offers.

    While dealership loan rates tend to be slightly higher than other options it is smart to compare, especially if you have a preapproved option to use as leverage.

    6

    Finalize the auto loan.

    At this point, you’ll need documents like proof of insurance and a vehicle title to seal the deal.

    7

    Start making payments.

    Keeping up with your monthly payments is vital in making sure the vehicle becomes yours and ensuring your credit comes out unscathed. Consider signing off on autopay so you never miss a payment.

  • Choosing the right lender can help you with financing a vehicle you can afford. We recommend you get quotes from at least three lenders beyond your car dealership before deciding which is right for you. Pay special attention to the following factors:

    • Approval requirements.

    Every lender has different requirements to receive approval. Lenders will consider aspects like your credit history, income and debt-to-income ratio. Your credit serves as the primary determinant of potential rates. Keep in mind that typically, the worse your credit score is, the less competitive your rates will be.

    • Annual percentage rate.

    The APR represents the amount of interest and fees that you will have to pay on the loan. Pay close attention to this number — a higher APR means more interest and thus a larger monthly cost. Also remember to shop the total loan amount, not just the monthly payment.

    • Loan terms.

    While a lower monthly payment may seem appealing, pay close attention to available terms, and consider how your loan’s length will impact your overall cost. A longer loan term will lower your monthly cost, but you will pay more interest. Conversely, a shorter loan term means a higher monthly cost but a lower cost over the life of the loan.

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The annual percentage rate (APR) includes your interest rate, plus any loan fees. It reflects the total cost of borrowing.

The period of time until your loan achieves maturity and is paid off in completion. Terms can be expressed in months or years, depending on the details of your loan.

The minimum credit score typically required to qualify for a loan with a given lender. Exact thresholds are not always disclosed by a lender and in certain cases the minimum score is the best estimate based on publicly available information. Credit score refers to FICO 9.0 unless otherwise stated.

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (3)

4.0

Bankrate Review

APR from

4.99-14.99%

Term

36-84mo

Min credit score

640

Apply on partner site

Apply on partner site

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (4)

3.7

Bankrate Review

APR from

4.99%

Term

24-84mo

Min credit score

600

Apply on partner site

Apply on partner site

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (5)

4.0

Bankrate Review

APR from

5.24-24.99%

Term

12-84mo

Min credit score

620

Apply on partner site

Apply on partner site

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (6)

3.6

Bankrate Review

  • Rates as low as 0% on select cars, trucks and SUVs
  • Free Online Quotes - Get Your CarsDirect Target Price Today
  • Local dealers compete to provide the best rates for both new and used vehicles

Apply on partner site

Apply on partner site

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (7)

3.6

Bankrate Review

  • Network of dealer partners has closed $1 billion in bad credit auto loans
  • Specializes in bad credit, no credit, bankruptcy and reposession
  • In business since 1999
  • Easy, 30-second pre-qualification form
  • Bad credit applicants must have $2000/month income to qualify

Apply on partner site

Apply on partner site

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (8)

4.2

Bankrate Review

APR from

4.99%

Term

12-96mo

Min credit score

580

Apply on partner site

Apply on partner site

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (9)

3.7

Bankrate Review

APR from

6.84%

Term

24-84mo

Min credit score

600

Apply on partner site

Apply on partner site

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (10)

4.5

Bankrate Review

APR from

5.95-28.55%

Term

24-84mo

Min credit score

640

Apply on partner site

Apply on partner site

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (11)

3.7

Bankrate Review

APR from

7.09%

Term

24-84mo

Min credit score

600

Apply on partner site

Apply on partner site

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (12)

3.6

Bankrate Review

  • Network of dealer partners has closed $1 billion in bad credit auto loans
  • Specializes in bad credit, no credit, bankruptcy and reposession
  • In business since 1999
  • Easy, 30-second pre-qualification form
  • Bad credit applicants must have $2000/month income to qualify

Apply on partner site

Apply on partner site

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (13)

4.4

Bankrate Review

APR from

5.49-18.79%

Term

24-96mo

Min credit score

560

Apply on partner site

Apply on partner site

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (14)

4.2

Bankrate Review

APR from

7.49-15.69%

* with AutoPay

Term

24-84mo

Min credit score

Not disclosed

Apply on partner site

Apply on partner site

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (15)

4.2

Bankrate Review

APR from

7.49-15.69%

* with AutoPay

Term

24-84mo

Min credit score

Not disclosed

Apply on partner site

Apply on partner site

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (16)

3.9

Bankrate Review

  • Lower Your Monthly Payment- $150 Avg.
  • Reduce Your Interest Rate
  • Take a Vacation from Your Loan Payment

Apply on partner site

Apply on partner site

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (17)

4.2

Bankrate Review

APR from

4.67%

Term

24-96mo

Min credit score

580

Apply on partner site

Apply on partner site

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (18)

4.2

Bankrate Review

APR from

7.74-15.94%

* with AutoPay

Term

24-84mo

Min credit score

Not disclosed

Apply on partner site

Apply on partner site

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (19)

4.2

Bankrate Review

APR from

4.99%

Term

12-96mo

Min credit score

580

Apply on partner site

Apply on partner site

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (20)

4.3

Bankrate Review

APR from

6.83%

w/0.25% autopay discount

Term

24-72mo

Min credit score

680

Apply on partner site

Apply on partner site

On This Page

On This Page

  • Compare auto loan rates in March 2024
  • Best auto loan lenders in 2024
  • A beginner’s guide to auto loans
  • Current car loan interest rates
  • Auto loan rates by credit score
  • What to know before applying for an auto loan
  • How to manage a car loan
  • FAQs about auto loans

Compare auto loan rates inApril 2024

LenderCurrent APRTermLoan AmountBest for
LightStream7.49%-15.69%* with AutoPay24-84 months$5,000-$100,000Overall auto loan
Bank of AmericaStarting at 5.99%48-72 monthsStarting at $7,500Big bank option
Capital OneNot specified24-84 monthsStarting at $4,000Convenience
Carvana7.95%-27.95%12-72 monthsNot specifiedFully online experience
myAutoLoanStarting at 6.84%24-84 monthsStarting at $8,000Shopping for multiple loan offers
Upstart9.26%-29.99%24-84 months$9,000-$60,000Fair credit
PenFed Credit UnionStarting at 5.24%36-84 monthsNot specified Bankrate 2024 Award winner for best auto loan from a bank
CarputtyStarting at 7.35%24-60 months$25,000-$250,000Bankrate 2024 Award winner for best auto loan for used car purchase
Consumers Credit UnionStarting at 6.84%36-84 monthsNot specified Bankrate 2024 Award winner for best auto loan for new car purchase
Tenet6.49%-15.75%36-84 months$15,000-$95,000Bankrate 2024 Award winner for best auto loan for EV loans
LenderCurrent APRTermLoan Amount
Capital OneNot specified24-84 monthsStarting at $4,000
AutopayStarting at 4.99%12-96 months$8,000-$100,000
CarvanaNot specified12-72 monthsNot specified
iLending5.49%-18.79%12-96 months$5,000-$150,000

For more information on bad credit auto loan rates, check out our page on bad credit auto loans.

LenderCurrent APRTermLoan Amount
LightStream7.74%-15.94%* with AutoPay24-84 months$5,000-$10,000
AutopayStarting at 4.99%24-96 months$2,500-$100,000
Caribou5.95%-28.55%Not specified$10,000-$125,000
Upstart9.26%-29.99%24-84 months$9,000-$60,000
RefiJet5.29%-21.99%24-96 months$5,000-$100,000
LendingClub4.99%-24.99%24-84 months$4,000-$55,000

For more information on auto loan refinance rates, check out our page on auto loan refinancing.

For more information on auto loan refinance rates, check out our page on auto loan refinancing.

Best auto loan lenders in2024

Best overall

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (21)

LightStream

Rating: 4.1 stars out of 54.1Info

Min. credit score:
Not disclosed

Fixed APR From:
7.49%–15.69%

Loan amount:
$5,000– $100,000

Term lengths:
2 to 7 years

Min. annual income:
Not disclosed

Overview: LightStreamoffers unsecured auto loans for drivers online. It covers a range of financing needs including loans for new cars, used cars from a dealer or private seller, lease buyouts and even classic car financing.

Why Lightstream is the best overall: Lightstream offers quick funding for drivers in a pinch and a wide range of loan amounts.

  • Pros

    • Quick funding
    • High loan amount
    • Wide range of repayment options

    Cons

    • Unsecured loan
    • Good to excellent credit required
    • No prequalification offered
  • Who this lender is best for: Lightstream is best for those looking to finance their vehicle as soon as possible and prefer a fully online experience.

    Impact on financial wellness: You will undergo a hard credit check following application submission — you cannot prequalify to check your rates ahead of applying.

    Time to receive funds: Funds become available as soon as the day you apply.

    Fees: Lightstream has no fees.

    Additional requirements: While credit requirements are not disclosed, the most competitive rates will only be offered to those with excellent credit.

    Special features: Repayment terms ranging from 24 to 84 months and the ability to borrow as much as $100,000.

Best big bank option

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (22)

Bank of America

Rating: 3.7 stars out of 53.7Info

Min. credit score:
Not disclosed

Fixed APR From:
6.09%

Loan amount:
$7,500

Term lengths:
4 to 6 years

Min. annual income:
Not disclosed

Overview: Bank of America offers flexible and convenient auto loans you can apply for directly on its website. Rates are competitive, and you can qualify for additional discounts if you are an eligible Bank of America customer.

Why Bank of America is the best big bank option: With over 4,000 brick-and-mortar locations, Bank of America is perfect for an in-person experience coupled with discounts for account holders.

  • Pros

    • Good customer service
    • Long shopping window

    Cons

    • No prequalification
    • Discount for members only
    • High minimum loan amount
  • Who this lender is best for: Best if you intend to finance your vehicle via a dealership rather than fully alone. To receive the most competitive rates, it is also best for those that hold an account with Bank of America.

    Impact on financial wellness: Following the application, you can expect a hard credit check.

    Time to receive funds: Funds will become available as soon as the same business day.

    Fees: You can expect to pay title and state fees in some states

    Additional requirements: Bank of America requires that the car you're financing be no more than 10 years old, with no more than 125,000 miles and valued at no less than $6,000.

    Special features: If you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards customer, you can qualify for a rate discount of up to 0.5 percent off.

Best for convenience

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (23)

Capital One

Rating: 4.1 stars out of 54.1Info

Min. credit score:
Not disclosed

Fixed APR From:
Not disclosed

Loan amount:
Starting at $4,000

Term lengths:
2 to 7 years

Min. annual income:
Not disclosed

Overview: Capital One'sfinancing works as a “one-stop shop” for your auto loan and vehicle purchase. Through one of its partnered dealerships, you can borrow as little as $4,000 with terms from 24 to 84 months.

Why Capital One is the best for convenience: The Capital One Auto Navigator site lets you search for inventory in your area and gives you the ability to see how different makes, models and features will affect your total cost.

  • Pros

    • Prequalification available
    • Auto Navigator lets you shop for your car
    • Perfect credit not required

    Cons

    • Limited vehicle inventory
    • Undisclosed rates
    • Two applications required
  • Who this lender is best for: Best if you are unsure of the state of your credit and want to check your odds for approval prior to a formal application.

    Impact on financial wellness: You can check your rate with a soft credit pull. There is a hard credit pull following the full application.

    Time to receive funds: You can receive funding as soon as the day you apply.

    Fees: Capital One charges late fees.

    Additional requirements: You can use Capital One auto financing to shop only at one of its participating dealerships, which makes this a poor option if you find a car you love elsewhere.

    Special features: Capital One partners with over 12,000 dealerships and you can prequalify online to understand eligibility prior to signing for the loan.

Best fully online experience

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (24)

Carvana

Rating: 4.2 stars out of 54.2Info

Min. credit score:
Not disclosed

Fixed APR From:
7.95%–27.95%

Loan amount:
From $1,000

Term lengths:
1 to 6 years

Min. annual income:
$5,100

Overview: ​​Carvana lets you shop for a car online and pick up your purchase from a giant “car vending machine” or choose from its other delivery options. Its process lets you enjoy a unique experience, and Carvana also offers competitive car loan rates and terms.

Why Carvana is the best fully online experience: Carvana offers a streamlined online experience where you can shop for and finance your new vehicle all from the comfort of your own home.

  • Pros

    • Advanced underwriting criteria
    • Money-back guarantee
    • Prequalification available

    Cons

    • Limited vehicle inventory
    • Not available in all states
    • Down payment required
  • Who this lender is best for: Carvana holds loose requirements, you must be at least 18 years old, make $4,000 in yearly income and have no active bankruptcies — making it great for those with no credit or poor credit.

    Impact on financial wellness: Prequalification available, with a hard credit pull expected following application.

    Time to receive funds: Funds can be available as soon as the same day.

    Fees: Fees vary.

    Additional requirements: After you prequalify, you have 45 days to make a purchase from Carvana's inventory and either pick up the car, have it delivered to you or fly to the car and then drive it back.

    Special features: Carvana lets you shop for a car online and pick up your purchase from a giant car vending machine.

Best for shopping for multiple loan offers

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (25)

MyAutoLoan

Rating: 3.9 stars out of 53.9Info

Min. credit score:
600

Fixed APR From:
6.84%

Loan amount:
$5,000

Term lengths:
2 to 7 years

Min. annual income:
$5,000

Overview: With no application fee and convenient online application myAutoLoanworks with an expansive network of lenders to enable you to compare offers and find the right lender for your needs. It also offers loans for refinancing and lease buyouts.

Why myAutoLoan is the best for shopping for multiple loan offers: You can easily compare multiple loan offers all on the myAutoLoan platform with no hard credit pull. This platform lets you enter your information once and receive multiple loan offers in one place.

  • Pros

    • Flexible acceptance criteria
    • Fast funding
    • Transparent rates

    Cons

    • Limited state availability
    • Only online customer support
  • Who this lender is best for: For those who do not have their sights set on a specific lender and want to compare options all in one place.

    Impact on financial wellness: Hard credit pull only following formal application.

    Time to receive funds: Funding is available as soon as the following business day.

    Fees: Fees with myAutoLoan are not specified.

    Additional requirements: If you have poor credit, your interest rate could be on the higher side. Also note that you can use this platform if you live in most states, but not in Alaska or Hawaii.

    Special features: One application will present you with up to four quotes from different lenders. By comparing multiple auto loan offers at once, you can pick the one with the interest rate, loan term and conditions that work for you and your budget without having to shop around.

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (26)

Bankrate 2024 Award winner for best auto loan for auto refinance

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (27)

LendingClub

Rating: 4.3 stars out of 54.3Info

Min. credit score:
600

Fixed APR From:
8.98%–35.99%

Loan amount:
$1,000– $40,000

Term lengths:
2 to 5 years

Min. annual income:
Not disclosed

Overview: LendingClub, typically recognized for its personal loan products, is a great option for borrowers looking to refinance their current loan. Financing is provided by LendingClub Bank.

Why LendingClub won for best auto loan for auto refinance: LendingClub doesn’t charge an origination fee. Combined with their competitive rates, customers with strong credit have a good chance of saving with LendingClub.

  • Pros

    • No fee to originate loan
    • Option to prequalify
    • Early loan pay off

    Cons

    • Potential late payment fees
    • Range of vehicle restrictions
    • Not available in all states
  • Who is this lender best for: LendingClub is a great route for a borrower who’s comfortable navigating loan options online.

    Impact on financial wellness: Before final approval, you will undergo a hard credit pull. However, you can prequalify without damaigng to your credit.

    Time to receive funds: Up to 15 days following approval.

    Fees: You can expect to pay vehicle title transfer fees. LendinClub may charge llate payment fees.

    Additional requirements: Your vehicle cannot be more than 10 years old; it must have fewer than 120,00 miles; the balance must be between $4,000 and $55,000; the loan must be at least one month old, have 24 months remaining and be registered within your current state of residence. LendingClub also has a long list of ineligible vehicles.

    Special features: Borrowers who choose to pay off their loans early can do so without a prepayment penalty, a perk not all lenders offer.

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (28)

Bankrate 2024 Award winner for best auto loan for used car purchase

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (29)

Carputty

Rating: 4.2 stars out of 54.2Info

Min. credit score:
680

Fixed APR From:
6.83%

Loan amount:
Up to $250,000

Term lengths:
3 to 5 years

Min. annual income:
Not disclosed

Overview: Carputty is a direct lender that allows borrowers to finance multiple vehicle purchases at once via a single line of credit.

Why Carputty won for best auto loan for used car purchase: The lender took first place due to its V3 valuation tool, which helps customers determine the best times to buy and sell vehicles.

  • Pros

    • High maximum financing amount
    • Quick funding timeline
    • Loan preapproval

    Cons

    • Not available in all states
    • Atypical repayment structure
    • Vehicle restrictions
  • Who is this lender best for: Carputty is ideal for drivers who like to frequently swap their vehicles.

    Impact on financial wellness: You will undergo a soft credit pull when you first apply and a hard credit pull before final approval.

    Time to receive funds: Funds will be available as soon as the same day you apply.

    Fees: Carputty charges 1 percent of the financed amount when a car is added to your line of credit. If you remove a car from your line of credit you will pay a $250 removal fee.

    Additional requirements: You need a minimum credit score minimum of 680. The vehicle must be under 85,000 miles and eight years old with a clean title. Your loan-to-value (LTV) ratio must not exceed 110 percent for used vehicles or 100 percent of MSRP for new.

    Special features: The V3 valuation tool Carputty provides can help you gauge the right time to sell or buy.

A beginner’s guide to auto loans

Before exploring the right auto loan for your needs, it’s important to understand the ins and outs of the financing option and where to secure them.

What are car loans and how do they work?

Auto loans let you borrow the money you need to purchase a car. Since car loans are typically "secured,” they require you to use the automobile you are buying as collateral for the loan. You are typically asked to pay a fixed interest rate and monthly payment for 24 to 84 months, at which point your car will be paid off. Many dealerships offer financing, but you can also find auto loans at national banks, local credit unions and online lenders.

When shopping for an auto loan, compare APRs across multiple lenders to make sure you are getting a competitive rate. Look for lenders that keep fees to a minimum and offer repayment terms that fit your needs.

Loan details presented here are current as of publication. Check the lenders’ websites for more current information. The auto loan lenders listed here are selected based on factors such as APR, loan amounts, fees, credit requirements and more.

Types of auto loans

Car loan options go beyond just new and used. Each auto loan type has specific uses that cater to certain types of borrowers, and knowing what type you need can make the loan shopping process easier.

New car loan

If you are looking to purchase a new car, you should seek out a new car loan. Dealerships offer new car financing on the lot, but you can also get them from banks, credit unions and online lenders. Shop around for your best interest rate and terms.

Used car loan

Buying a used car from a dealership will require a used car loan. You can get them at the same places you would get a new car loan. Lenders often limit cars’ age and mileage.

Auto refinance

If you originally took out a loan at a dealership, or just didn't get a good rate, you may want to refinance your car and get a better interest rate. Or you can rework your terms to get a lower monthly payment. This process simply replaces your current auto with a new one. These loans aren't available through dealerships.

Cash-out auto refinance

To get a little extra cash with your refinance, you can take out a cash-out refinance loan. Along with the balance you are refinancing, you can borrow against the equity you have in your car.

Private party

When you are buying a used car from an individual seller and do not have the cash on hand, you will need a private party auto loan. These are less common, but available at some banks, credit unions and online lenders.

Lease buyout

Leasing a car can come with the option to buy the vehicle at the end. You can take out a lease buyout loan to finance that purchase. Lease buyout loans tend to be similar to used car loan rates.

Pros and cons of auto loans

An auto loan can be a great way to get behind the wheel. But cars are big purchases, and these loans can impact your finances for years. It’s important to weigh auto loans’ advantages and disadvantages before opting in.

Pros

  • Spreads out expenses. Securing a loan cuts down the amount of money you have to spend unfront for your vehicle, instead you will pay across the course of your agreed loan term.

  • Afford a better car. With more time to repay your lender, you may be able to afford a nicer vehicle than what you could buying outright.

  • You own the car at the end. Unlike with leasing, the vehicle will be yours once the loan is fully paid off.

  • May improve your credit score. Payment history makes up 35 percent of your FICO score. If you have proven loan pay-off history, your score could improve.

Cons

  • Monthly payments can be expensive. Due to a number of factors, interest rates are high right now. The average new car payment is $726 per month, according to Experian data.

  • Risk of damaging your finances. If you struggle with keeping your finances in order, beware of how missed payments may affect your credit and your ability to drive your car.

  • Your vehicle’s value depreciates. Your vehicle will start to depreciate the moment you exit the dealership.

  • Stuck with the same car for longer. If you like to switch up your vehicle every couple of years, leasing may be a better option.

Current car loan interest rates

Car loan interest rates change frequently and impact how much you’re going to pay each month. So it’s important to track them when comparing auto loan rates. Bankrate surveys top banks across U.S. markets and crunches the numbers to find average interest rates for common loan terms. Use the below table, which updates weekly, to help you know the best time to buy a used or new car.

Average rates as of April 10, 2024

60-month new car7.81%
48-month new car7.71%
48-month used car8.47%
36-month used car8.36%

What factors contribute to auto loan interest rates?

While it is true that the interest rate you will receive varies depending on the lender and is somewhat out of your control, there are still choices you can make to increase approval. Consider these aspects and how they will affect loan approval and rates:

  • Your credit history. Lenders use credit scores to measure the risk that borrowers carry. Very simply, the lower your credit score is, the higher your interest rate will be.
  • Vehicle down payment. Putting down a large down payment will not only bode well with lenders but will decrease the amount you are borrowing — saving you more money down the line.
  • Loan term. Typically, a longer-term loan will equate to higher interest rates and more interest paid over the life of the loan. But a longer-term loan will decrease your monthly payment.
  • Education and work history. Many lenders are expanding underwriting criteria outside of the sole measure of your credit score. This means you can still benefit from a competitive rate if you have a strong profession or educational background — with or without a perfect credit score.
  • Vehicle age. An older vehicle can carry additional risk of issues for both you and your lender. So, you can expect an older car to carry higher rates.

How to calculate auto loan interest

It’s smart to determine your expected monthly payment prior to signing off on your next loan. Not only will it put you in control of your finances, but it can ensure that you don’t end up paying more interest than you should. Use our tool below to determine how different interest rates will impact your monthly payment.

Auto loan rates by credit score

As mentioned, lenders use credit score as the primary determinant of a potential borrower's ability to pay off a loan. So, the better your credit score is, the more competitive interest rates you will receive. Below are the average APRs for new and used vehicles in the fourth quarter of 2023, according to Experian.

CREDIT SCORENEW CAR LOANSUSED CAR LOANS
781 to 850 (super prime)5.64%7.66%
661 to 780 (prime)7.01%9.73%
601 to 660 (nonprime)9.60%14.12%
501 to 600 (subprime)12.28%18.89%
300 to 500 (deep subprime)14.78%21.55%

What to know before applying for an auto loan

When looking for a car loan, it is best to shop around with a few lenders before making your decision. Each lender has its own method when reviewing your application for a loan and setting your interest rate and terms. Check your credit ahead of shopping to ensure you qualify for lenders you may have your sights set on.

Generally, your credit score will have the biggest effect on the rates you're offered. The higher your credit score, the lower APR you will receive. Having a higher credit score may also allow you to take out a larger loan or access a broader selection of repayment terms, but there are still ways to finance a car with bad credit. Choosing a longer repayment term will lower your monthly payments, although you will also pay more interest overall.

If you find a few lenders that you like, see if they offer prequalification — going through this process will let you see which rates you qualify for without affecting your credit score.

How to manage a car loan

The key to managing your car loan is sticking to a budget and understanding how your agreed-upon payment timeline impacts it. Otherwise, you can put yourself at risk of losing your vehicle and running into trouble. If you are on the brink of missing a payment, reach out to your lender as soon as possible to seek a solution.

You can you make extra payments to pay off your loan earlier to save on interest. But consider how early payoff can impact your credit — it can drop your score by a few points. Not all lenders allow early loan payoff. Approach your auto loan pay-off with care to ensure it fits best with your financial situation.

FAQs about auto loans

How we choose our best auto loan lenders

Bankrate's trusted augo loans industry expertise

Read our full methodology

57years

in business

37

lenders reviewed

18

loan features weighed

666

data points collected

The Bankrate team assessed more than 35 auto lenders to find the best. Bankrate considered 18 criteria, such as acceptance criteria, loan amounts and APR range. These scores are broken into four categories.

Auto Loan Rates & Financing in April 2024 | Bankrate (2024)
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