How to Get the Best Auto Loan Rate
Shop before you shop: how pre-approval saves you thousands.
October 16, 2026 · 5 min read
Dealers often mark up financing. Getting pre-approved first puts you in control.
Steps
- Check your credit score
- Pre-qualify with two or three lenders
- Choose the shortest term you can afford
- Negotiate the car price separately from financing
Terms matter
A 72 or 84-month loan lowers the payment but costs far more in interest and risks owing more than the car is worth.