tips to get the best value on a car loan

The Effects Of Loan Length When Getting Auto Financing

You must make a lot of decisions when buying a car, including what type of car to buy and what price range you can afford. You will also have decisions to make relating to the car loan you choose. One of these is how long you'd like the loan to last. Car loans come with a lot of options relating to time, and here are some factors to think about as you determine the length of your next auto loan.

Ask About Your Options

The shortest car loan you may find is a 12-month loan, but this is not a typical time frame for car loans. Most auto loans have longer payment terms than this, and you will find that they are usually between 48 to 72 months. You can choose a shorter time frame or longer, though. Keep in mind; you will have to make a monthly payment for the entire length of the loan. If you do not want to have to make payments for 72 months, you probably should choose a shorter duration.

The Duration Affects Your Payment Amount

You should understand the effects that duration has on your payment amount. If you finance $15,000 for a new car, your payments would be a lot higher if you chose a 36-month loan versus a 60-month loan. When you repay money you borrow faster, the payments will naturally be higher.

The Duration May Affect Your Interest Rate

You should also know that interest rates correlate with loan duration. If you want the best rate possible, you may need to choose a shorter loan. Shorter-term loans typically have lower rates because there is less risk to the lender.

You Will Pay More in All with a Longer Loan

Another thing to consider is that you will pay more in all for the loan if you select a longer loan duration. You pay more in all because you must pay interest on the loan for more time.

You Can Make It More Affordable by Choosing a Lower-Priced Vehicle

If you want the best deal on an auto loan and have a payment you can afford, you may need to adjust the price you are willing to spend on a car. If you choose a lower-priced vehicle, you will have more affordable payments.

Do you want to buy a car with a loan? If so, start looking at your options with car loans to choose the one that is right for you. Speak with a professional who provides auto lending services to learn more. 


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