auto
Line up financing before car shopping
Dear Terry,
I have received several offers from a certain credit card company for a new car loan. The letters say I'm preapproved. I am currently in the market for a new car, but don't want to lower my credit score by applying for new credit. Is it a good idea to apply for an account this way? Or should I let a dealer find me a finance company?
--
Gladysmaria
Dear Gladysmaria,
While I can't endorse a specific lender, I can tell you that it's always better to go shopping for a new car with your financing already lined up.
The dealer gets a commission for setting you up with a loan and the interest rate may not be as good as you can get on your own.
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