Refinancing a Car Loan

Written by Corrina Murdoch
Fact-checked by Caitlin Wood

Refinancing a Car Loan

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Car Financing Car Loan Car Refinancing

Every year, you go through long-term budget arrangements and try to find new ways to save. Car refinancing has the potential to improve your monthly budget. Those who entered into a subprime auto loan and have since gotten a raise, reduced debt, or improved their credit, may be eligible for refinancing. To learn whether refinancing is the right step, it’s important to learn the options available to you. Armed with this information, you can make an informed decision and choose the best possible refinancing arrangement.

Process of Refinancing a Car

The process of refinancing vehicles is actually fairly straightforward. It works in a similar manner to the original purchase. However, unlike haggling about the value of the vehicle, you are locked into the cost associated with the original purchase. Essentially, the new lender buys your debt (pays for the car’s remaining value) and then lends that amount to you, typically at a lower rate and with an improved term.

There is some key information to gather before taking the leap. Approach the lender and discuss the interest rates available, along with any fees you will be expected to pay. Find out if there are penalties associated with refinancing and learn what the term of the new loan will be. Determine whether the costs of refinancing, both immediate and over the long term. From there, you can decide if it is amenable to your financial situation. 

Should You Refinance For a Longer or Shorter Term? 

In order to decide how to approach your refinancing, there are some key things to consider. A key aspect is the duration of the new loan. The term of the agreement dictates what it will cost you in the long run. Loans with a shorter term will cost more on a monthly basis, though will end sooner. This results in less interest payments over time. 

Conversely, longer-term agreements have smaller monthly payments. However, that does not mean you will ultimately pay less. Long-term loans have more time to compound the interest. It results in your paying a significantly higher price for the vehicle than you would with a shorter term.

In order to understand how the term of the loan will play into your household’s larger financial picture, there are other details to consider. 

Financial Situation

Consider your ability to make payments and how much you can afford. Weigh this against your willingness to pay out the loan faster, even if it means some frugality. Additionally, consider whether you will qualify for a better rate. If your credit is better than when you initially entered into the agreement, you should be fine to proceed. 

New Loan Term

When you pay out a loan over a longer term, you are eventually spending more in interest. Depending on how well you are able to make your existing regular payments, it may be worth discharging the loan faster. Conversely, if you’re struggling and don’t have a long-term solution yet, refinancing is a reasonable option.

Monthly Payments

While your monthly payments with a refinance are likely to be lower, if you choose to extend your term. You will end up paying more in the long run. Often, during financially trying times, it is easy to think about the short term. However, it is essential that you factor in your long term goals and how this will affect you both monetarily and in terms of credit.

Interest Rates

In most situations, refinancing is sought to get a lower interest point. Keep in mind that even if you receive a new lower interest rate, if you extend your loan term significantly, you may end up paying more in the long run. When you make your decision, ensure that you have real numbers for the total you will pay so that you can compare the arrangements objectively. 

What Do You Need To Refinance Your Car? 

Since it isn’t much different than making a car purchase, chances are you already have most of the information you need. However, before you take the leap, be certain that you are eligible to refinance. Consider whether you have defaulted on the lease or are in good standing. Be sure that your credit score and working situation are stable and viable for refinancing. Provided you are eligible for the new loan, the next step is getting your documents together. 

Tax information is a common request, so bring your most recent filing records. Additionally, three months of pay stubs from your employer are necessary as well. Plan ahead and bring your banking details. Often, people go with a void cheque to speed up the process and eliminate the chance of errors. You will also need relevant identification. Both a government issued photo ID and a second identification are required. A driver’s licence and a passport are both suitable options. Additionally, be sure to have all the necessary details for your vehicle. Registration documents work well for this purpose. 

Ensuring that you have all the essential documentation is not only important, but it is also a great way to speed up the process and develop a better rapport with the lender. Preparing ahead of time gives you a good opportunity to highlight all reasons for refinancing in an organized manner. 

Car Refinancing Options 

	Amount	Interest	Term (months)
	$7500 – $59,995	3.95% +	12 – 96
	$5,000 – $40,000	–	12 – 72
	–	–	Up to 84
	$500 – $35,000	29.99% – 46.96%	9 – 60
	$500 – $10,000	12.99% – 39.99%	9 – 36

Things to Watch Out For When Refinancing a Car Loan

Just like with any financial arrangement, it is important to keep your eyes out for red flags. Ensure that the lending agency is reputable and offers a reasonable interest rate. Make sure that you are dealing with a proven institution and be sure to read all the fine print. If you are unsure as to the meaning of a phrase, it is better to ask. 

Take a look at the cost of refinancing the vehicle. Are there any upfront expenses? Are you going to be paying more down the line? If so, how much more? Make sure that you have all of the information above before making your decision. As always, avoid deals that seem too good to be true. Understand your rights and the responsibilities of the lender. Be certain that you are comfortable with the arrangement and that it is in your best financial interests. 

When Is It Smart to Refinance Your Car Loan? 

Times when you should consider refinancing your car include various situations. Consider the following:

Consider Your Credit score

Has your credit score gone up significantly in the recent past? If you find that your rating is drastically higher than when you initially took out your car loan, you will likely get a better rate if you refinance. 

Can You Get a Lower Interest Rate?

Did you get your vehicle when interest rates were really high? It happens to countless households across the country. Many chose to refinance their vehicle when interest rates lower.

Where Do You Stand Financially?

If you have recently come across difficult times; situations like unexpected expenses or even a decrease in income, you could find yourself unable to make regular payments. Instead of having a poor payment history on your credit, refinancing can make things more affordable. 

On the other hand, if you have gotten a pay increase which you can substantiate with pay stubs, it can be wise to look into refinancing, too. This means that your income-to-debt ratio has improved and you will better qualify for a loan arrangement. 

Final Thoughts

There is a time and a place for most things, including car refinancing. Whether you signed on with a high-interest rate and want to reduce expenses or simply had a windfall, continual financial assessment is essential to long-term success. So long as you keep your long-term financial goals in mind, refinancing can be a rewarding opportunity. 

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