Blog > Recent Articles In Financing

Different types of car loans explained

  Although not quite as varied as cars themselves, auto loans come in many shapes and sizes according to the lender, the needs of the borrower and the vehicle in question. So many variables can result in greatly different loan processes and structures, but here are the main types of car loans explained.   Secured auto loans The car acts as collateral for the debt so, if the borrower fails to make payments, the lender can repossess the vehicle and resell it to recoup its losses. A lien is the legal arrangement that makes this possible. The lender is listed… Read More

Car terms to know when you’re a first-time buyer

Even if you’ve been driving for a little while, taking the step of buying your first car is likely to throw out some terminology you haven’t come across before. Here are 13 terms it’s useful to know, and which may help you land the right car at the right price.     Sticker price – The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for a new car. A dealer could sell the car for more or less than the MSRP. There may be an opportunity to negotiate down from here toward the factory invoice price, which is what the dealer paid the… Read More

When to buy another car, top-rated used vehicles and more

Shopping for a used vehicle? Trying to decide whether now is the time for another car – new or used? If you answered “yes” to either question – or want to learn more about Ford pickup trucks’ 100th anniversary or which cars get the most traffic tickets – the Santander Consumer USA blog can provide some useful information. While there’s lots of great information on the RoadLoans blog, following are some links to the best recent content on the related SC blog if you want to read more:     The right time for another car? Is it time to… Read More

Should you buy a certified used vehicle?

  No car buyer wants to pay good money for a vehicle only to be lumbered with reliability problems. So how to do you make a good buy? If you’re purchasing a used car, you’ll probably encounter the option of choosing a certified preowned (CPO) vehicle. These cars are typically models that have been thoroughly inspected and reconditioned by a factory-trained mechanic to meet manufacturer guidelines, and come with an extended warranty. Most automakers offer certified preowned programs, and when someone returns a lease vehicle or trades in, the dealership will consider it for the CPO program. Not all certified… Read More

6 Ways to avoid a bad car loan

Buying a car can be fun and exciting. However, getting a car loan can be anything but. After all, the auto loan process can be confusing and intimidating, causing buyers to make mistakes that result in a bad car loan. If you’ve got bad credit,* dealers or insurance agents may take advantage, and you could be stuck with a car loan that will end up costing you tons in the long term. So if you’re in the market for a new or used car, don’t get swindled into having to pay more than you really need to. Here’s a look… Read More

Know your options when shopping for car financing

  Finding a car loan can seem like a daunting task to many potential car buyers. With a wide variety of options to choose from and factors to take into consideration, car loan shopping can be overwhelming. However, finding financing options doesn’t have to be so scary. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) advises consumers to shop around for their financing, and here is some information that may help you find the best car loan for you. Hopefully, the following tips can help narrow down your car loan options and give you a positive shopping experience.* Auto loan options Dealerships Getting… Read More