So DH and I need a new car. Mine is slowly dieing - the current repair needed is a $700 heat repair and I can't freeze DD this winter! Just spent $300 for it to pass inspection and I'm sure it will need new tires and windsheild soon. Not to mention a window doesn't work....We are looking at minivans (DH likes the Nissan Quest)...anyways, to the point, any advice on getting a car loan? I see the credit unions advertising them, but I guess I have to apply to find out what my rate would be. Should I just apply at one place?

__________________
Mom to Kaylee (10/2006)
Waiting on our second bundle of joy to arrive January 2009!

I would study them all, Pick one and apply with them. Every time someone runs your credit it can affect you credit score. HTH just read them all and all that lovley fine print before applying. Some will give you a good fair est with out running your credit so you can also try that.

__________________

First, I feel compelled to point out that fixing your current auto will be far cheaper than buying another one. However, I do understand that there comes a point where one wants a new car whether it makes financial sense or not.

Do shop around then apply when you find a deal you like. Getting an auto loan (especially for a new auto) is embarrassingly easy. The loan is secured by the vehicle which the lender owns until it is all paid off.

Of course you'll have your loan all arranged before you do your serious car shopping. You'll have a time limit to fund the loan (about 30 days) so be sure to have narrowed down which vehicle you want beforehand. At the last moment - when you have agreed on the price with the car salesman - ask about the financing deals available through the dealership. You might be pleasantly surprised. Do be cautioned, though, if you end up qualifying for the best financing deal the dealership has available, you're paying too much for the car.

__________________
"I've been rich and I've been poor but independently wealthy is where it is at."

When I say "new car", I mean a "used car". I know I will put much more money into this car than it is currently worth within the next year especially since it is FORD (fix or repair daily - hahaha ) and it has a pretty high milage. It is just time and we are tired of the headaches with it.

I hate the fine print - but thanks for the reminder since I know DH will just skim and sign Thanks for the advice ladies!

__________________
Mom to Kaylee (10/2006)
Waiting on our second bundle of joy to arrive January 2009!