Refinancing is an option to pay off a car loan that you have taken out to buy a vehicle. Refinancing your car loan can help you get a lower interest rate and change your repayment terms, which could be a great way to save money.
However, it is important to not rush the process. Do your research and learn as much as you can about refinancing before you rush to make a decision.
What Is Car Refinancing?
You’ll be able to refinance your existing car loan by taking out a new loan that has different terms and replaces the original loan. You’ll then begin to make monthly payments on your new loan.
After comparing rates, fees, and special offers, you can either refinance with the existing lender or choose a new one.
The lender will inspect your vehicle, conduct a credit check, verify income, and request proof of auto insurance.
4 Things You Need To Know Before Refinancing
While refinancing may make it more affordable to own a car, it can also lead you to pay more over the long term. These are four things you need to know before refinancing.
1. How To Compare Lenders And Shop Around
You should also compare the offers of online lenders, auto finance companies, traditional banks, and credit unions. This will help you to get the best rate.
Remember that an application for a refinance car is a hard inquiry and could result in your credit score dropping by a few points. However, if you submit multiple applications within a given time frame, it will count as one inquiry.
2. How Much You Might Have To Pay
For early repayment of the car loan, some lenders may include a prepayment penalty. You should check whether your current loan is subject to prepayment penalties. This could impact any savings that you make by refinancing.
You might have to pay an application fee or registration fee depending on which lender you are using. Refinancing might also require that you re-register your vehicle. However, the exact cost depends on where you live.
3. The Value Of Your Car
Do your research before you contact any lenders to determine the value of your car. It is often determined by the make, model, year, and mileage of your car. Once you have a clear idea of the value of your vehicle, you can decide whether to refinance or if you want to sell it. Before approving your application for refinance, the lender will assess the car’s worth. You won’t be approved if the car’s value is too low.
4. Refinancing Requirements
Every lender has its refinancing requirements. Ask as many questions as you can while you shop around and make sure you get as much information as you can before applying. The following are the key requirements of most lenders:
What You Owe And Your Car’s History
The amount of your car loan outstanding, the vehicle’s age, and mileage will all affect your ability to refinance. Some lenders won’t finance older vehicles or those with high mileage. Most will also refuse to refinance loans on cars with salvage titles.
Loan-To-Value Ratio
Before you apply for refinancing, it is important to know the loan-to-value (LTV), ratio of your car. The lender will use this information to determine your eligibility and terms.
Your vehicle is collateral for the loan and is often worth less than you paid for it. To reduce the amount of the loan, the lender might require you to make a down payment.
Credit History
Your credit score and credit report play an important role in determining whether you can refinance and how much borrowing costs you will incur. Higher credit scores can make you less risky and help you get a lower interest rate.
