Car Buying: How a Preapproval Can Put You in the Fast Lane

Test driving a car can be so much fun—driving along, picturing all the places you’d go and the things you’d do with a shiny new car. But as you’re imagining the possibilities, make sure you pause to consider priorities like good rates, solid loan terms and a sensible vehicle.

One of the best ways to make sure that you find a car that’s perfect for you and that matches your finances is to get preapproved before you start shopping. Here’s how a preapproval gives you an edge in your auto-buying journey. 

You Know How Much You Can Spend

If you're in the market for a new car and know you’ll need to finance it, your first step should be applying for preapproval with your bank or credit union. It gives you an edge because before you even visit a dealer, you’ll know how much you can finance, your estimated interest rate, how long you’ll have to pay back the loan and an estimate of your monthly payment. That’s powerful knowledge, because you won’t waste your time on vehicles that aren’t a match.

You Can Shop Like a Cash Buyer

When you walk in the door armed with a preapproval, you have the upper hand because you can shop just like a cash buyer. You’ll have more power to negotiate because you’ll know your absolute maximum price and you’ll be able to negotiate price and not payments. That can save you some serious money. How? Because if you try to pick a monthly payment, you could end up with longer terms (a longer pay-back period) at a higher interest rate, which means you could end up spending more for the car in the end.

You May Get a Lower Rate

Getting preapproved from a trusted financial institution will not only tell you how much you can spend, but it also might provide you a lower interest rate than what a dealer can offer. The lower the interest rate, the less you’ll pay overall.

When you find a car you like, most dealers will offer you financing. With a preapproval, you’ll know right away if the rate and terms they’re offering are good for you. You won’t be forced to use their lender and take their deal if you don’t want to because you’ll have already have financing lined up.

When should I apply for preapproval, and does it guarantee I’ll get a loan?

Wait to get preapproval until you’re serious about buying a car and know your credit score, because applying will have an impact on your score. While it may not guarantee funding, it can give a good indication of your ability to get financing and can help you know how much you can finance. That’s important information to have before you start shopping. Some lenders may even provide you with a check worth up to the preapproved amount, so you can take it to almost any dealership and pay for your car just like you would with cash.

Jumpstart Your Car-Buying Process

Before you go car buying, apply online for a Navy Federal Credit Union auto loan or call 1-888-842-6328. With a Navy Federal preapproved auto loan, you’ll be better prepared to drive away in your new car.