Where Can I Refinance My Auto Loan?
When it comes to refinancing your auto loan, you have several options to consider. Refinancing can help lower your monthly payments, reduce your interest rate, or even give you cashback if you’ve built equity in your car.
But where should you go to refinance?🤔
here's a quick look at what we'll cover
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credit unions
pros
- Credit unions, like Skyla Credit Union, are member-focused, which often translates to better customer service and more flexible terms.
- They may offer lower interest rates, especially if you’re a member.
- Refinancing with credit unions is convenient and fast. Psst... when refinancing with Skyla, you can apply from your couch! Here's more>
- Quick decisions on loan applications – many credit unions, like Skyla, offer fast approvals.
- Lower costs on extras like GAP coverage, extended warranties, and credit insurance.
- Personalized service – you’ll work with the same lender from start to finish.
cons
- You usually need to be a member of the credit union to qualify for refinancing. Psst...there's a good chance you either live in an area or work for an employer that qualifies you for a Skyla membership. If not – no worries! You're eligible to join via our partner association – Carolinas Credit Union Foundation. The best part? It's at no cost or obligation to you. Here's more >
banks
pros
- Banks often offer competitive interest rates for customers with good credit.
- Established financial institutions can provide a wide range of services, making it convenient if you already bank with them.
Cons
- Banks tend to have stricter lending requirements.
- If your credit score is less than stellar, you might not get the best deal, or you might not qualify at all.
online lender
pros
- The process is usually quick and convenient. You can apply and get approved without leaving your home.
- Many online lenders specialize in auto loans, so they might offer competitive rates even if your credit isn’t perfect.
cons
- Rates can vary widely between lenders, so it’s important to shop around and ensure you’re not getting stuck with a higher-than-necessary rate.
- Some online lenders may charge origination fees or other hidden costs that increase the total loan amount
dealership
pros
- Dealerships may have partnerships with lenders and can offer you attractive refinancing options as part of an incentive.
- It’s convenient if you’re already working with a dealership for other services.
cons
- Dealership refinancing options tend to come with higher interest rates compared to credit unions or banks.
- Be careful of extra fees added by the dealership, as they can increase the total cost of your loan over time.
- Dealership loans are often handled by third-party lenders after the deal is closed, meaning the dealership may not be involved in servicing your loan, making you less of a priority for future support.
how can i get cashback (cash out) when refinancing?
When refinancing, you can receive cashback but, you’ll need to have equity that you’ve built into your car. So, if you refinanced and received a new auto loan that’s worth more than what you have to pay on the balance of the previous auto loan, then you can keep the difference if needed.
Let me explain...
Say your car is worth $13,500, and you’ve paid $7,500 (with a remaining balance of $6,000). Lenders allow you to borrow different amounts, such as 90% of your car’s value. This rate would mean you’ll qualify to refinance your auto loan for as much as $12,150 ($13,500 - 90%), which leaves you with $4,650 in equity on your car that you could cash out if needed.
Psst... cashing out can be risky due to having additional debt with your lender, which you’ll have to eventually pay back. |
is there a limit on refinancing my auto loan?
There isn’t a legal limit on how many times you can refinance, but you have to make a financial decision that works best for you. As mentioned above, lenders review your credit report, and they’ll notice inquiries such as how many loans you have and the attempts you’ve refinanced if you’ve refinanced more than once.
Try to avoid refinancing more than once by doing some research first. Using the examples above, you can contact a lender and see how much a new loan would be, then you can compare offers and select one that works for you.
when is the best time to refinance?
The common recommendation is to wait 60-90 days after getting your original auto loan. This allows time for your vehicle title to transfer properly, making refinancing smoother. If you've had your loan for more than three months, the best time to refinance depends on your current loan balance.
Curious about when to refinance or when to hold off?
can i refinance my auto loan with skyla?
Of course! If you already have the perfect car and are financed with another lender, you can refinance with us where we can beat your current lender’s interest rate up to 1% APR1 reduction for loans up to $24,999 and up to 1.5% APR1 reduction for loans above $25,000!
here's what's next:
If you’re ready to refinance, take the time to explore all of your options and calculate how much you could save. Whether you want lower payments or cashback, refinancing might be the right move for you.
If you need help with some auto loan terms or need ideas with some auto loan questions to ask a lender or dealer you can also grab the free Auto Loan 101 Guide.
Need additional help refinancing your car?
Our Customer Service Representatives are here for you and ready to assist! You can send an email or give us a call at 704.375.0183.
ok, so here's the fine print:
1APR=Annual Percentage Rate. Please review our current rate list for the lowest Steal the Car Loan rate available. Rates shown are for qualified borrowers only. Existing Skyla auto loans are not eligible.
As the Content Specialist and author of the Learning & Guidance Center, Yanna enjoys motivating others by uncovering all that's possible in the world of finance. From financial tips and tricks to ultimate guides and comparison charts, she is obsessed with finding ways to help readers excel in their journey towards financial freedom.
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