Best auto loan rates in August 2022
Rebecca Betterton is the auto loans reporter for Bankrate. She specializes in assisting readers in navigating the ins and outs of securely borrowing money to purchase a car.
Rhys has been editing and writing for Bankrate since late 2021. They are passionate about helping readers gain the confidence to take control of their finances by providing clear, well-researched information that breaks down otherwise complex topics into manageable bites.
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What To Know First
How to get an auto loan
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The annual percentage rate (APR) includes your interest rate, plus any loan fees. It reflects the total cost of borrowing. | The period of time until your loan achieves maturity and is paid off in completion. Terms can be expressed in months or years, depending on the details of your loan. | The minimum credit score typically required to qualify for a loan with a given lender. Exact thresholds are not always disclosed by a lender and in certain cases the minimum score is the best estimate based on publicly available information. Credit score refers to FICO 9.0 unless otherwise stated. | |||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
APR from 2.79% | Term 24-60mo | Min credit score 680 | Apply on partner site | Apply on partner site | |
APR from 3.19% | Term 48-60mo | Min credit score 700 | Apply on partner site | Apply on partner site | |
APR from 4.99% | Term 60mo | Min credit score 700 | Apply on partner site | Apply on partner site | |
APR from 6.74% | Term 36-72mo | Min credit score Not disclosed | Apply on partner site | Apply on partner site | |
APR from 2.49% | Term 36-60mo | Min credit score 700 | Apply on partner site | Apply on partner site | |
APR from 3.99% | Term 60mo | Min credit score 700 | Apply on partner site | Apply on partner site | |
APR from 2.69% | Term 60mo | Min credit score 700 | Apply on partner site | Apply on partner site | |
APR from 2.49% | Term 60mo | Min credit score 700 | Apply on partner site | Apply on partner site | |
APR from 3.12% | Term 48-60mo | Min credit score 700 | Apply on partner site | Apply on partner site | |
APR from 3.99% | Term 60mo | Min credit score 700 | Apply on partner site | Apply on partner site | |
APR from 2.20- 29.99% | Term 24-84mo | Min credit score Not disclosed | Apply on partner site | Apply on partner site | |
APR from 2.49% | Term 36-60mo | Min credit score 700 | Apply on partner site | Apply on partner site | |
APR from 2.49% | Term 36-60mo | Min credit score 700 | Apply on partner site | Apply on partner site | |
| Apply on partner site | Apply on partner site | |||
| Apply on partner site | Apply on partner site | |||
APR from 4.99% | Term 60mo | Min credit score 700 | Apply on partner site | Apply on partner site |
The Bankrate guide to choosing the best auto loan
Auto loans let you borrow the money you need to purchase a car. Since car loans are typically “secured,” they require you to use the automobile you’re buying as collateral for the loan.
This is both good news and bad news. The fact that your loan, or financing, is secured does put your car at risk of repossession if you don’t repay the loan, but having collateral often helps you qualify for lower interest rates and better auto loan terms.
Auto loans usually come with fixed interest rates and loan terms ranging from two to seven years, but it’s possible to negotiate different terms depending on your lender.
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When shopping for an auto loan, compare APRs (annual percentage rates) across multiple lenders to make sure you’re getting a competitive rate. Look for lenders that keep fees to a minimum and offer repayment terms that fit your needs. Loan details presented here are current as of May 27, 2022. Check the lenders’ websites for more current information. The auto loan lenders listed here are selected based on factors such as APR, loan amounts, fees, credit requirements and more.
How to choose the best auto loan lender
Compare auto loan rates in August 2022
Lender | Current APR | Term | Loan Amount | Best for |
---|---|---|---|---|
LightStream | 3.99% to 9.49% (with autopay) | 36 to 84 months | $5,000 to $100,000 | Overall auto loan |
Bank of America | Starting at 3.79% | 48 to 72 months | Starting at $7,500 | Big bank option |
Capital One | Not specified | 24 to 84 months | Starting at $4,000 | Convenience |
Carvana | Starting at 3.90% | 12 to 72 months | Not specified | Fully online experience |
myAutoLoan | Starting at 1.90% | 36 to 84 months | Starting at $8,000 | Shopping for multiple loan offers |
Upstart | 2.20% to 29.99% | 24 to 84 months | $9,000 to $60,000 | Fair credit |
Lender | Current APR | Term | Loan Amount |
---|---|---|---|
Capital One | Not specified | 24 to 84 months | Starting at $4,000 |
Autopay | Starting at 1.99% | 24 to 96 months | $2,500 to $100,000 |
Carvana | Starting at 3.90% | 12 to 72 months | Not specified |
iLending | Starting at 1.99% | 12 to 84 months | Starting at $7,500 |
Lender | Current APR | Term | Loan Amount |
---|---|---|---|
Lightstream | 4.99% to 10.49% (with autopay) | 36 to 84 months | $5,000 to $10,000 |
Autopay | Starting at 1.99% | 24 to 96 months | $2,500 to $100,000 |
Caribou | 2.79% to 36.00% | 24 to 60 months | Not specified |
Upstart | 2.21% to 29.99% | 24 to 84 months | $9,000 to $60,000 |
RefiJet | Starting at 2.49% | 48 to 60 months | Not specified |
Best auto loan lenders in 2022
LightStream: Best overall
Overview: Lightstream offers unsecured auto loans for drivers online. It covers a range of financing needs including loans for new cars, used cars from a dealer or private seller, lease buyouts and even classic car financing.
Why Lightstream is the best overall: Lightstream offers quick funding for drivers in a pinch and a wide range of loan amounts.
Pros
- Quick funding
- High loan amount
- Wide range of repayment options
Cons
- Unsecured loan
- Good to excellent credit required
- No prequalification offered
Who this lender is best for: Lightstream is best for those looking to finance their vehicle as soon as possible and prefer a fully online experience.
Impact on financial wellness: You will undergo a hard credit check following application submission — you cannot prequalify to check your rates ahead of applying.
Time to receive funds: Funds become available as soon as the day you apply.
Fees: Lightstream has no fees.
Additional requirements: While credit requirements are not disclosed, the most competitive rates will only be offered to those with excellent credit.
Special features: Repayment terms ranging from 36 to 84 months and the ability to borrow as much as $100,000.
LENDER | LightStream |
---|---|
MIN. CREDIT SCORE | Not specified |
STARTING APR | 3.99% (with autopay) |
LOAN AMOUNT | $5,000 to $100,000 |
TERM LENGTHS | 36 to 48 months |
MIN. ANNUAL INCOME | Not specified |
FEES | None |
Bank of America: Best big bank option
Overview: Bank of America offers flexible and convenient auto loans you can apply for directly on its website. Rates are competitive, and you can qualify for additional discounts if you are an eligible Bank of America customer.
Why Bank of America is the best big bank option: With over 4,000 brick-and-mortar locations, Bank of America is perfect for an in-person experience coupled with discounts for account holders.
Pros
- Good customer service
- Long shopping window
Cons
- No prequalification
- Discount for members only
- High minimum loan amount
Who this lender is best for: Best if you intend to finance your vehicle via a dealership rather than fully alone. To receive the most competitive rates, it is also best for those that hold an account with Bank of America.
Impact on financial wellness: Following the application, you can expect a hard credit check.
Time to receive funds: Funds will become available as soon as the same business day.
Fees: You can expect to pay title and state fees in some states
Additional requirements: Bank of America requires that the car you're financing be no more than 10 years old, with no more than 125,000 miles and valued at no less than $6,000.
Special features: If you’re a Bank of America Preferred Rewards customer, you can qualify for a rate discount of up to 0.5 percent off.
LENDER | Bank of America |
---|---|
MIN. CREDIT SCORE | Not specified |
STARTING APR | 3.59% |
LOAN AMOUNT | Starting at $7,500 |
TERM LENGTHS | 48 to 72 months |
MIN. ANNUAL INCOME | Not specified |
FEES | Title and state fees in some states |
Capital One: Best for convenience
Overview: Capital One’s financing works as a “one-stop shop” for your auto loan and vehicle purchase. Through one of its partnered dealerships, you can borrow as little as $4,000 with terms from 24 to 84 months.
Why Capital One is the best for convenience: The Capital One Auto Navigator site lets you search for inventory in your area and gives you the ability to see how different makes, models and features will affect your total cost.
Pros
- Prequalification available
- Auto Navigator lets you shop for your car
- Perfect credit not required
Cons
- Limited vehicle inventory
- Undisclosed rates
- Two applications required
Who this lender is best for: Best if you are unsure of the state of your credit and want to check your odds for approval prior to a formal application.
Impact on financial wellness: You can check your rate with a soft credit pull. There is a hard credit pull following the full application.
Time to receive funds: You can receive funding as soon as the day you apply.
Fees: Capital One charges late fees.
Additional requirements: You can use Capital One auto financing to shop only at one of its participating dealerships, which makes this a poor option if you find a car you love elsewhere.
Special features: Capital One partners with over 12,000 dealerships and you can prequalify online to understand eligibility prior to signing for the loan.
LENDER | Capital One |
---|---|
MIN. CREDIT SCORE | Not specified |
STARTING APR | Not specified |
LOAN AMOUNT | Starting at $4,000 |
TERM LENGTHS | 24 to 84 months |
MIN. ANNUAL INCOME | $18,000 |
FEES | Late fee |
Carvana: Best fully online experience
Overview: Carvana lets you shop for a car online and pick up your purchase from a giant “car vending machine” or choose from its other delivery options. Its process lets you enjoy a unique experience, and Carvana also offers competitive car loan rates and terms.
Why Carvana is the best fully online experience: Carvana offers a streamlined online experience where you can shop for and finance your new vehicle all from the comfort of your own home.
Pros
- Advanced underwriting criteria
- Money-back guarantee
- Prequalification available
Cons
- Limited vehicle inventory
- Not available in all states
- Down payment required
Who this lender is best for: Carvana holds loose requirements, you must be at least 18 years old, make $4,000 in yearly income and have no active bankruptcies — making it great for those with no credit or poor credit.
Impact on financial wellness: Prequalification available, with a hard credit pull expected following application.
Time to receive funds: Funds can be available as soon as the same day.
Fees: Fees vary.
Additional requirements: After you prequalify, you have 45 days to make a purchase from Carvana's inventory and either pick up the car, have it delivered to you or fly to the car and then drive it back.
Special features: Carvana lets you shop for a car online and pick up your purchase from a giant car vending machine.
LENDER | Carvana |
---|---|
MIN. CREDIT SCORE | None |
STARTING APR | 3.90% |
LOAN AMOUNT | Not specified |
TERM LENGTHS | 12 to 72 months |
MIN. ANNUAL INCOME | $4,000 |
FEES | Varies |
myAutoLoan: Best for shopping for multiple loan offers
Overview: With no application fee and convenient online application myAutoLoan works with an expansive network of lenders to enable you to compare offers and find the right lender for your needs. It also offers loans for refinancing and lease buyouts.
Why myAutoLoan is the best for shopping for multiple loan offers: You can easily compare multiple loan offers all on the myAutoLoan platform with no hard credit pull. This platform lets you enter your information once and receive multiple loan offers in one place.
Pros
- Flexible acceptance criteria
- Fast funding
- Transparent rates
Cons
- Limited state availability
- Only online customer support
Who this lender is best for: For those who do not have their sights set on a specific lender and want to compare options all in one place.
Impact on financial wellness: Hard credit pull only following formal application.
Time to receive funds: Funding is available as soon as the following business day.
Fees: Fees with myAutoLoan are not specified.
Additional requirements: If you have poor credit, your interest rate could be on the higher side. Also note that you can use this platform if you live in most states, but not in Alaska or Hawaii.
Special features: One application will present you with up to four quotes from different lenders. By comparing multiple auto loan offers at once, you can pick the one with the interest rate, loan term and conditions that work for you and your budget without having to shop around.
LENDER | myAutoLoan |
---|---|
MIN. CREDIT SCORE | 575 |
STARTING APR | 1.90% |
LOAN AMOUNT | Starting at $8,000 |
TERM LENGTHS | 36 to 84 months |
MIN. ANNUAL INCOME | $24,000 |
FEES | Not specified |
Upstart: Best for fair credit
Overview: Upstart is an online lender that utilizes the intelligence of AI technology to cater to drivers looking to refinance their car loans. It factors a driver's work and education history for its loans that can be refinanced up to $60,000.
Why Upstart is best for fair credit: Drivers with fair credit scores, 510 to 669, may not receive competitive rates from traditional lenders. But Upstart's smarter rate approach will give any driver a better chance to receive decent rates to save money.
Pros
- Convenient online application
- Prequalification
- Smarter rate approach
Cons
- Limited state availability
- No co-borrowers allowed
Who this lender is best for: A driver with less than excellent credit looking to refinance fully online.
Impact on financial wellness: Drivers that accept a loan quote will receive a hard inquiry.
Time to receive funds: Upstart offers instant approval and funding available within days.
Fees: Fees are incurred only if the vehicle is repossessed.
Additional requirements: The refinanced vehicle must be less than 10 years old and have under 140,000 miles.
Special features: The Upstart website can be fully translated into Spanish and with bilingual loan officers, it can be a great option for Spanish-speaking users.
LENDER | Upstart |
---|---|
MIN. CREDIT SCORE | 300 |
STARTING APR | 2.21% |
LOAN AMOUNT | $9,000 to $60,000 |
TERM LENGTHS | 24 to 84 months |
MIN. ANNUAL INCOME | Not disclosed |
FEES | None |
What are car loans and how do they work?
Auto loans are secured loans that use the car you’re buying as collateral. You’re typically asked to pay a fixed interest rate and monthly payment for 24 to 84 months, at which point your car will be paid off. Many dealerships offer their own financing, but you can also find auto loans at national banks, local credit unions and online lenders.
Because when you finance a car it’s a secured loan, they tend to come with lower interest rates than unsecured loan options like personal loans. As of July 27, 3033, the average APRs according to a Bankrate study are the following.
New car
- 36-month term: 4.79 percent.
- 48-month term: 4.82 percent.
- 60-month term: 4.84 percent.
- 72-month term: 5.28 percent.
Used car
- 36-month term: 5.11 percent.
- 48-month term: 5.37 percent.
- 60-month term: 6.58 percent.
Types of auto loans
Car loan options go beyond just new and used. Each auto loan type has specific uses, and knowing what type you need can make the loan shopping process easier.
- New car loan: If you are looking to purchase a new car, you should seek out a new car loan. Dealerships offer new car financing on the lot, but you can also get them from banks, credit unions and online lenders. Shop around for your best interest rate and terms.
- Used car loan: Buying a used car from a dealership will require a used car loan, and you can get them at the same places you would get a new car loan. Limits are often placed on how much mileage can be on the car and how old it can be.
- Auto refinance: If you originally took out a loan at a dealership, or just didn't get a good rate, you may want to refinance and get a better interest rate. Or you can rework your terms to get a lower monthly payment. These loans aren't available through dealerships.
- Cash-out auto refinance: To get a little extra cash with your refinance, you can take out a cash-out refinance loan. Equity you have in your car can be borrowed against along with the balance you are refinancing.
- Private party: When you are buying a used car from an individual seller and don't have the cash on hand, you will need a private party auto loan. These are less common, but available at some banks, credit unions and online lenders.
- Lease buyout: Leasing a car can come with the option to buy the vehicle at the end. To do so, you can take out a lease buyout loan.
What to know before applying for an auto loan
When looking for a car loan, it's best to shop around with a few lenders before making your decision. Each lender has its own methodology when reviewing your application for a loan and setting your interest rate and terms.
Generally, your credit score will have the biggest effect on the rates offered. The higher your credit score, the lower APR you'll receive. Having a higher credit score may also allow you to take out a larger loan or access a broader selection of repayment terms, but there are still ways to finance a car with bad credit. Choosing a longer repayment term will lower your monthly payments, although you'll also pay more interest overall.
If you find a few lenders that you like, see if they offer preapproval — going through this process will let you see which rates you qualify for without impacting your credit score.
Auto loan rates by credit score
CREDIT SCORE | AVERAGE APR NEW CAR | AVERAGE APR USED CAR |
---|---|---|
781-850 | 2.47% | 3.61% |
661-780 | 3.51% | 5.38% |
601-660 | 6.07% | 9.8% |
501-600 | 9.41% | 15.96% |
300-500 | 12.53% | 19.87% |
How the 2022 Fed hikes impact the cost to finance a car
- Apply for preapproval. By walking into the dealership with financing in hand you garner negotiating power and come equipped with a firm understanding of how much you can afford to spend.
- Trade-in your current vehicle. Consider trading in your current vehicle. You can save money on the vehicle down payment and don't have to hassle with selling it yourself. Depending on the state you're buying in, you may also be able to save on taxes.
- Compare at least three different lenders. Shopping around to different lenders ensures that you are getting the best deal available. It may take time to find the right lender for your needs, so be patient.
- Calculate the true cost of ownership. Purchasing a vehicle is made up of more than just the price of the vehicle and monthly payments. So instead, you must do the math so that you only purchase what you can afford.
- Consider buying electric. Although EVs can be priced a bit higher than traditional gas vehicles, the cost over the lifetime of the loan tends to be less expensive. Along with this, there are green loans and many states offer tax credits.
Can I get an auto loan with bad credit?
It is possible to get a car loan with bad credit, although having bad credit will raise the rates you're offered. If you are having trouble getting approved or finding acceptable rates, try taking these steps:
- Make a large down payment: Making a larger down payment will lower your monthly payment, but it could also help you qualify for better rates.
- Consider a co-signer: A co-signer with good credit will take on some responsibility for your loan if you default, but they can also help you qualify.
- Reduce existing debt: Before applying for an auto loan, pay down as much debt as you can and avoid opening new accounts, like credit cards.
FAQs about auto loans
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The company that is able to offer you the lowest rates for an auto loan can vary depending on where you live, your credit score, your employment history and other factors. Your best bet is shopping around among at least three auto lenders until you find the best deal.
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One problem with longer car loans is the fact that you often wind up “underwater” or "upside-down" on your loan. This is because cars tend to depreciate faster than you can pay off your loan.
A 72-month car loan means you’re paying off your loan more slowly and have the potential to owe more than your car is worth for the first few years. However, longer car loans let you secure a more affordable monthly payment, which is likely an important consideration for your budget.
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Used car interest rates range from 3.61 percent to 19.87 percent for most borrowers, according to the most recent statistics from Experian. Used car finance rates tend to be higher than those offered for new car purchases.
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Super prime borrowers with credit scores above 781 are most likely to qualify for 0 percent APR offers that sometimes come with a new car. However, you may be able to qualify if you’re a prime borrower with a score between 661 and 780.
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You can get prequalified for an auto loan online and without ever leaving your home. All you have to do is select one of the lenders on this list and choose its online option to “get prequalified” or “apply for a loan.” Many lenders let you get prequalified for an auto loan without a hard inquiry on your credit report.
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Refinancing a car loan is essentially just taking out a new car loan — so the steps for applying are mostly the same. You'll need your driver's license, Social Security number and proof of income, as well as details about your car. If approved, you'll use the funds from your new loan to pay off your old car loan, then begin making monthly payments with your new interest rate and terms.
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It is possible to sell your car with an outstanding loan, but you may have to go through a few extra steps. If your car is worth less than what you currently owe on the loan, you have what's known as negative equity — meaning you may need to pay the difference out of pocket or refinance the remaining amount with a different type of loan.
If your car is worth more than what you currently owe, on the other hand, you may be able to pocket the difference in cash when you sell the car. Whatever your situation, reach out to your lender about your options, as each lender sets different rules for selling a car with a loan.
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Choosing between a dealership and a bank for an auto loan is complicated. In general, dealerships may offer higher rates than banks — but this may not be the case for used cars. Regardless, it's important to get quotes from a few banks or online lenders first; that way you can come to the dealership prepared. Ask for a quote from the dealership as well, comparing rates, terms and any additional fees.
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Auto loan interest rates vary based on a number of factors, including the amount you are borrowing, the loan term, loan type and your credit history. The average interest rate for a new car is 3.86 percent, and the average interest rate for a used car is 8.21 percent according to the Experian State of Automotive Finance Market report from the fourth quarter of 2021.
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The credit score required for an auto loan varies based on where you buy and how much you borrow. At a buy-here, pay-here lot you may not need as strong of a credit score as you might elsewhere. Typically, however, you should aim for a credit score of 670 or higher to get close to average rates.
Methodology
Bankrate considers 18 different factors when selecting top auto loans. Acceptance criteria, whether rates and fees are available and APR all influence lender scores. These scores are broken up into four categories.
- Availability: Loan amounts, repayment options, dealership requirements and state availability all contribute to this category.
- Affordability: This section houses APR ranges, acceptance criteria, fees and discounts.
- Customer experience: How long you have to shop, customer service availability, whether there’s an app and autopay availability are accounted for in this section.
- Transparency: This category accounts for the availability of fees and rates along with whether prequalification is available.