How Are San Diego, CA Car Loan Rates Determined?
Various factors impact your California car loan interest rate, including the loan amount, your credit score, your income, the down payment, the age of the car, and your loan's term (the length of the loan). A low credit score, high debt-to-income ratio, or purchasing an older vehicle from your San Diego dealer could mean a higher interest rate. But why worry about a high interest rate? The higher your interest rate, the higher your monthly payment is and the more you spend over the life of your loan. A difference of just one or two percent could mean spending hundreds more overall.
Is There a Way to Lower My San Diego Car Loan Rate?
Online tools like our Interest Rate Estimator will give you an idea of what your rate might look like before you begin applying for auto loans in San Diego, CA. If you've supplied your information and are unhappy with the percentage you see, what steps can you take to lower it?
The loan term is one aspect you have a lot of control over. Most San Diego auto loans are available with terms in 12-month increments between 2 years (24 months) and 7 years (84 months). Many borrowers take longer terms because they usually mean a lower monthly payment. But longer terms are also likely to come with higher interest rates. If you can afford a higher monthly payment, it's smart to choose a shorter term. The Auto Payment Calculator shows what your monthly payment might be with different interest rates and terms to help you determine what might work for your budget.
If you have less than ideal credit, improving your score could decrease your interest rate. Our Guide to Better Credit for Auto Financing walks you through what determines your credit score and how you can quickly bring it up. It may take some time and work to better your credit score, but it's worth it to get those lower California car loan rates.
Taking the time to hunt down the right lender can also help you snag a lower rate. While lenders will use the same information, you'll likely receive a different interest rate from each one. You need to compare offers and shop around for the best auto loan rate in San Diego, CA — even if you don't have the highest income or best credit. You shouldn't automatically choose the first offer you get because there might be a better one just around the corner. Plus, some lenders will negotiate, so you can take your offer from one lender to another to see if they're willing to give an even lower rate.
Find the Best Auto Loan Rates in San Diego, CA with myAutoloan
myAutoloan is dedicated to helping you find the lowest car loan rates in San Diego, CA no matter your credit score or the type of car you're buying. You can look at up to four loans at once so you can find the best deal. Fill out our secure online application, choose the best loan for you, and head down to a dealer in San Diego to purchase a new ride. Apply now to see today's lowest interest rates!