At a glance

- Availability
- Affordability
- Customer Experience
- Transparency
About LightStream
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Loan amount
$5,000 to $100,000
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Min. credit score
Not specified
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APR from
3.99%
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Funds available in
As soon as the day you apply
Loan amount
$5,000 to $100,000
Min. credit score
Not specified
APR from
3.99%
Funds available in
As soon as the day you apply
Consider these benefits and drawbacks of an auto loan with LightStream before applying.
Good user experience
Fast funding timeline
Many term options
No prequalification
High minimum loan amount
Unsecured loan
LightStream is an online lender that offers unsecured auto loans for new car purchases and used car purchases, as well as auto loan refinancing. Because LightStream’s auto loans are unsecured, your car is not used as collateral; however, LightStream still offers competitive rates and a variety of repayment options. Along with this, LightStream can give you the funds to finance your vehicle the day that you apply.
Here are some of the benefits and drawbacks of LightStream auto loans.
LightStream is best for drivers who are looking to finance or refinance their vehicle quickly. LightStream boasts an easy-to-navigate website with a streamlined online application process and same-day funding in some cases.
LightStream offers auto loans for new, used and refinancing vehicles. The terms for all three options are the same: You can borrow anywhere from $5,000 to $100,000, with terms from 36 to 84 months.
If you’re buying a used car, you can choose from either a dealer purchase or a private party purchase. LightStream also offers loans for an auto lease buyout if you’ve been leasing your car and decide that you want to purchase it.
LightStream offers one discount: a 0.5 percent discount for autopay. The rates below reflect this discount.
Loan product | Interest rate |
New car | 3.99% to 9.49% APR |
Used car from a dealer | 3.99% to 9.49% APR |
Used car from an individual | 5.99% to 10.49% APR |
Lease buyout | 5.99% to 10.49% APR |
Auto loan refinance | 4.99% to 10.49% APR |
You can apply for a loan with LightStream on its website. In the application, you’ll need to provide:
You may need to provide identifying documents after completing your application. If you apply within business hours, you could receive a response, sign your loan documents electronically and receive funding within the same day.
LightStream does not provide specific eligibility requirements for its loans. However, the company does look for borrowers with several years of credit history, a credit history with a variety of account types, a good payment history, a proven ability to save and stable income. The lowest rates go to borrowers with an excellent credit score, which is typically defined as a FICO Score above 740.
LightStream earns an “A+” rating from the Better Business Bureau, which is the highest possible rating. Its parent company, Truist, has the same rating. The BBB measures companies’ complaint history, how well they’ve responded to customer complaints and how transparent their business practices are.
LightStream offers customer assistance via an online form but does not have a phone number for general queries. Business hours are Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET and Saturday 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. ET. Information regarding your application or loan can be found 24/7 on LightStream’s website or app.
Overall score | 4.2 | |
Availability | 4.7 | LightStream has a high minimum loan amount but lets you choose from a wide range of repayment terms. |
Affordability | 4.2 | While LightStream offers low APRs, it does not disclose its eligibility requirements. |
Customer experience | 4.8 | LightStream stands out for its fast funding timeline, but it does not have customer support via phone, and its support hours are limited. |
Transparency | 3.0 | Fees are listed on its website, but LightStream does not offer prequalification. |