Auto Loan Rate Calculator

Who will give a better rate on a car loan, the dealer or a bank? If an auto loan is considered high risk, what options are available for a good rate with bad credit? This article gives some insight into these questions and helps to prepare the consumer that’s searching for a car loan.

Car Dealer or Lending Institution for an Auto Loan?

There is no definitive answer as to whether the dealer or a lending institution will have the best rate on an auto loan. It largely depends on certain circumstances like:

  • new car;
  • used car;
  • individual credit score;
  • loan amount;
  • car value to loan amount;
  • estimated depreciation rate; and
  • down payment amount.

When looking for a loan for a new car, the manufacturer will often offer a low financing rate (sometimes a 0% rate). In most instances, the consumer has a choice between a factory rebate or a low financing rate. In some cases, the actual rebate amount could exceed the finance charges.