So how do you find the best auto finance rate? The first place to start is Bankrate's daily update of loan rates. These are averages and will give you a starting point to determine what's high or low when it comes to APR (annual percentage rate), the best yardstick for loan comparisons.
But loans vary greatly, depending on the lender, the borrower's credit and regional factors. This Bankrate.com search tool will help you compare car-loan rates in your area.
Then there are online lenders like E-Loan and Capital One Auto Finance (formerly PeopleFirst), which have been offering highly competitive rates.