How Does Car Financing Work?

couple closing deal at dealership

If you are in the market for a new or used car, you have a few options when it comes to paying for the vehicle you select. You have the option to purchase it outright, lease it, or apply for financing. What is financing a car and what does it mean for your budget? If you have been researching the question, “What does it mean to finance a car?” and “How does financing a car work?”, we would be glad to answer those questions for you.

How Does Financing a Car Work?

If you want to learn how car finance works, your first step is applying for the loan through the dealership, a bank, or a credit union. You can visit the dealership to start the application process or you can expedite the process by getting pre-approved online. Our application is safe, secure, and easy to complete. Here is some of the information you will need to include:

  • Credit Score
  • Loan Amount
  • Length of Loan
  • Debt-to-Income Ratio
  • Age of the Vehicle

If your credit score is less than ideal or you have yet to establish credit, you do still have options. If possible, you could have a family member or close friend co-sign for you.

Select a Lender

Once the approval process is complete, it is likely that you will have a couple of different options available to you. If the dealership offers in-house financing, you can compare their offer to a bank or credit union offer to see which makes the most sense for your needs and budget. Carefully consider your down payment as well as how much you can afford each month before accepting an offer.

Seal the Deal

In most cases, you have the ability to negotiate the terms of your loan before making a final decision. After the negotiation process is complete, you are almost ready to drive home in the vehicle of your dreams. After you sign the paperwork, you are free to drive home!. For more information like used-car financing, where to get auto financing, and other car-buying tips, visit Suntrup Automotive Group.

Suntrup Automotive Group Makes Car Shopping Hassle-Free

If you still have additional questions about car financing, including used car financing, do not hesitate to reach out to the team at Suntrup Automotive Group. Our experts would be happy to walk you through the process. Stressed about making your car payments? Discover your options with our team.


More from Suntrup Automotive Group

  • 2024 Nissan Frontier Colors

      The Nissan Frontier is designed to help you tackle demanding jobs around the St. Louis area. It features exceptional capabilities and an impressive towing capacity so you can have confidence when you’re behind the wheel. While there’s plenty of performance to appreciate in the 2024 Nissan Frontier, you’ll find that it also offers a head-turning…

  • 2024 Volkswagen Atlas Interior

      Need a comfortable SUV with the latest amenities for your St. Louis commutes or weekend adventures? Look no further than the all-new fully-loaded 2024 Volkswagen Atlas interior. This expanded, refreshed three-row VW SUV has more cabin space and the latest interior features to enhance every drive, keeping you comfortable and connected. Learn more about the…

  • 2024 BMW iX Range

      Enjoy a futuristic and efficient vehicle that matches your lavish lifestyle when you decide to lease or finance a new BMW iX. As one of the many BMW electric models, this all-electric luxury SUV will have plenty of room for you and your passengers while offering plenty of range for you to drive around…

Suntrup Automotive Group 38.5214964, -90.3451239.