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This calculator is for general education purposes only and is not an illustration of current Navy Federal products and offers.

Auto Loan FAQs

What Should I Know Before Applying for an Auto Loan?

Before applying for an auto loan, you'll need to know how much money you want to borrow, how long you want to take to pay it back (the term—typically 36 to 72 months) and how much you can afford to spend each month repaying the loan. As your trusted lender, Navy Federal will determine the interest rate that will apply, based on your credit score and other factors.

If you choose to get preapproved for your auto loan, you can know exactly how much you can borrow toward your new car, and have your financing in-hand before you meet with the dealer. Once approved, you'll have up to 90 days to find the car of your dreams.      
 

Is it Better to Get a Car Loan From a Dealership or a Financial Institution?

Working directly with Navy Federal prior to visiting the dealership could help you get a lower interest rate, not to mention a preapproval. The benefit of a preapproval is that with your financing in-hand, you can negotiate like a cash-buyer. As a member of a credit union, your car loan rate could also be a little lower than what a typical bank offers, thanks in part to the exclusivity of membership.  
 

What Credit Score Do I Need to Get a Car Loan?

There's no minimum credit score requirement to get a car loan, but generally speaking, the higher your credit score, the lower your interest rate could be for an auto loan. We have tools and resources that could help you improve your credit if you don't feel ready to apply for a car loan after checking your credit.

 

Additional Resources

Shop for Your Next Car With Our Car Buying Service

Shop, compare and get up-front price offers through the Car Buying Service, powered by TrueCar®. 

Learn more about Navy Federal's Car Buying Service


Make Sense of the Car-Buying Process

Get clear, step-by-step information on the car-buying process, from understanding car costs to making the deal.

Learn more about the car buying process about the car-buying process


Already Have an Auto Loan with Another Lender?

If you didn't finance your auto loan at Navy Federal, now's your chance! Refinance with us and get $200!1

Learn more about car refinancing rates

Disclosures

1Credit and collateral subject to approval. Existing Navy Federal loans are not eligible for this offer. Auto refinance loan must be at least $5,000. Loan must be open for at least 60 days with first scheduled payment made to be eligible for the $200, which will be credited to the primary applicant’s savings account between 61 and 65 days of the loan origination date. Offer may end at any time. Recipient is solely responsible for any personal tax liability arising out of this incentive.

This content is intended to provide general information and shouldn't be considered legal, tax or financial advice. It's always a good idea to consult a tax or financial advisor for specific information on how certain laws apply to your situation and about your individual financial situation.