Auto
Before setting your sights on your dream car it’s important to secure financing and insurance to ensure your vehicle is paid for and protected for miles to come.
Auto resources 101
Before setting your sights on a sedan or convertible, you must first sign off on the perfect auto loan for your financial needs. Take the following steps before getting behind the wheel of your new vehicle.

Shop around to find the best rate
Before you sign off on dealership financing, it is important to consider other sources of funding like banks, credit unions or online lenders.

Lock in a rate by getting preapproved
Preapproval gives you a firm idea of how much you will be spending each month and lets you compare offers from multiple lenders.

Be prepared for signing
To sign off on your new loan, you will likely need information like proof of income, address and insurance, along with your driver's license.

Begin making loan payments
You're now one step closer buying your vehicle! Now you'll just need to handle your monthly payments.
RECOMMENDED READING
Auto loan refinancing guide
How much car can I afford?
Auto loan reviews
Car insurance is a way to protect yourself financially if you are involved in a car accident or suffer a loss through fire, theft, vandalism or an act of nature. Car insurance is one of the most important parts of your financial portfolio, but how do you make sure you choose the best company for your needs?
Determine how much coverage you'll need
Evaluating your circumstances may help narrow down the selection of carriers and help you focus on one offering the coverage options you need.

Shop rates and compare quotes
Find the right provider for you by shopping around
Once you know your needs, you can begin seeking out insurance companies that might align with your circumstances.

Ready for your rates?
While the rates shown are a helpful starting point, they’re no substitute for personalized quotes. Answer a few questions to start your quotes in 3 minutes or less.
Check reviews and ratings to see what others are saying
Verified third-party ratings available to take the guesswork out of finding companies with strong customer service and financial strength ratings.

Bankrate Award winners
Bankrate Rating = 4.4/5
Bankrate scores are objectively determined by our editorial team. Our scoring formula weighs several factors consumers should consider when choosing financial products and services.
Bankrate Rating = 4.0/5
Bankrate scores are objectively determined by our editorial team. Our scoring formula weighs several factors consumers should consider when choosing financial products and services.
Bankrate Rating = 3.7/5
Bankrate scores are objectively determined by our editorial team. Our scoring formula weighs several factors consumers should consider when choosing financial products and services.

Bankrate Rating = 3.8/5
Bankrate scores are objectively determined by our editorial team. Our scoring formula weighs several factors consumers should consider when choosing financial products and services.
Find your best quote based on coverage
Comparing carriers highlights the difference in rates, but it also shows which carriers offer the coverage options and discounts you are looking for based on your needs.

Estimate your car insurance cost
Calculate your monthly car insurance payment
Get a quick estimate to make sure you're not overpaying.
Your estimate awaits...
Answer a few questions to reveal your payment
The results are in...
Your estimated payment
Ready for real rates?
Crunching the numbers...
An error occurred...
We're unable to estimate your payment
Ready for real rates?
Editor's Picks
Latest Articles
-
Pros and cons of financing a car
Consider the advantages and disadvantages of buying a car with an auto loan.
4 min read May 18, 2023 -
Driving without insurance in Virginia
What happens if you drive without insurance in Virginia? Learn more with Bankrate.
7 min read May 18, 2023 -
Best cheap car insurance in El Paso
We found and compared the best cheap car insurance companies in El Paso.
5 min read May 18, 2023 -
Best cheap car insurance in Fresno
Looking for the best cheap car insurance in Fresno? Bankrate can help.
8 min read May 18, 2023 -
Should you refinance or trade in your car?
Both options can be good for different situations. Find out which is right for you.
6 min read May 17, 2023 -
Factors that impact your cost of car insurance
Knowing the factors that impact your auto insurance rate can guide where to save.
11 min read May 17, 2023 -
Best cheap car insurance in West Palm Beach
Find the cheapest car insurance rates in West Palm Beach with help from Bankrate.
7 min read May 17, 2023 -
Best cheap car insurance in San Francisco
Bankrate can help you find the cheapest car insurance companies in San Francisco.
8 min read May 17, 2023 -
Best cheap car insurance in Orlando for 2023
Bankrate helps drivers in Orlando find the best cheap car insurance.
6 min read May 16, 2023 -
Act of God insurance
Find out what act of god insurance is, how you’re covered and who needs it.
4 min read May 16, 2023