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How can I estimate a car loan interest rate?

I’ve been shopping around for a used car, but I’m on a tight budget. I want to ensure I’m only looking at vehicles I can afford. Is there a way I can estimate the interest rate for a used car loan?

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Jack Walsh · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Determining your budget when shopping for a car can be challenging, but you can estimate a
car loan
interest rate using your credit score.
That said, this is a very rough estimate. Lenders determine rates on a case-by-case basis using many factors, so the only way to truly know the interest rate you’ll receive is to submit an application or get preapproved.
When applying for a used car loan, you can expect an interest rate of:
  • 3.66% for scores between 781 and 850
  • 5.49% for scores between 661 and 780
  • 10.49% for scores between 601 and 660
  • 17.11% for scores between 501 and 600
  • 20.58% for scores between 300 and 500
Additionally, to ensure you’re getting the best rate, you should shop around and compare offers from multiple lenders, including:
  • Local and national banks
  • Credit unions
  • Dealerships
  • Online lenders
Finally, when setting your budget, don’t forget to include your
car insurance
costs. If you want to make comparing quotes and purchasing a new policy simple, use
Jerry
.
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MORE: 7 things to look for when buying a used car
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