What Requirements are There to Get an Auto Loan?

Financing a car is the process of applying for an auto loan from a bank, credit union, online lender, or through your dealership. However, qualifying for a car loan isn’t something that happens automatically. The lender will need to feel certain that you have the means to pay back the money you borrow. They’ll look to the following factors when making their decision:

• Credit Score
• Loan Amount
• Length of Loan
• Debt-to-Income Ratio
• Age of the Vehicle

If you think you don’t have what you need to qualify for a car loan, don’t give up yet! Even if you have a low credit score, qualifying for a car loan is still possible. Many lenders are willing to work with you and may even bend the requirements if you can prove that you have the means to pay back your loan.

In this guide from the Toyota of Santa Fe finance department, we’ll look in detail at what you need to qualify for a car loan in Albuquerque, and what route you should take for the highest chance of approval.

How to Qualify for a Car Loan

If your credit score isn’t where you’d like it to be, but you’re wondering how to get a car loan anyway, you’re definitely not alone! We hear all the time from Rio Rancho-area drivers who worry that a low credit score will prevent them from qualifying for a car loan. 

Yes, you can get a car loan with bad credit—but you’ll need to adjust your expectations. Learning how to qualify for a car loan may involve a few extra steps, and it’s likely that you will pay a higher interest rate. Here’s what you need to know before you apply:

• Ask a family member or close friend to cosign your loan. If you know your credit score is low or you don’t have a strong credit history, a cosigner may assure your lender that you’ll be able to pay back the loan.
• Set your budget. Be honest with yourself about how much you can pay each month without stretching your budget. Remember to consider expenses like registration fees, insurance costs, maintenance, and gas. 
• Make a bigger down payment. One way to assure your lender that you can meet your monthly payment schedule is to make a large down payment. Doing so will also lower your monthly bill.
• Boost your credit. Check your credit report for any errors or outstanding debts that you can pay off right now. You may be able to boost your score by a couple of points!
• Find the right lender. A lower credit score doesn’t mean that you won’t get a decent offer! Apply to multiple lenders and then compare offers.
• Apply for financing online to get pre-approved. Then, you can work directly with our finance experts to hammer out a payment plan that fits your needs.

Want to Know More About Qualifying for a Car Loan in Santa Fe?

Connect with our team to learn more about the process of applying for and qualifying for a car loan in the Espanola area! Plus, be sure to take advantage of our online car-buying tools to estimate your monthly payments and value your trade-in vehicle.