Ashley HarrisonDeputy Editor, Education
Ashley is a deputy editor of Education at Forbes Advisor. She graduated from Utah Tech University with a bachelor’s in English with an emphasis in creative writing. Ashley worked as an editorial assistant and then editor on loans and mortgages conten...
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Ashley HarrisonDeputy Editor, Education
Ashley is a deputy editor of Education at Forbes Advisor. She graduated from Utah Tech University with a bachelor’s in English with an emphasis in creative writing. Ashley worked as an editorial assistant and then editor on loans and mortgages conten...
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Written By
Ashley Harrison
Ashley HarrisonDeputy Editor, Education
Ashley is a deputy editor of Education at Forbes Advisor. She graduated from Utah Tech University with a bachelor’s in English with an emphasis in creative writing. Ashley worked as an editorial assistant and then editor on loans and mortgages conten...
See Full Bio
Ashley HarrisonDeputy Editor, Education
Ashley is a deputy editor of Education at Forbes Advisor. She graduated from Utah Tech University with a bachelor’s in English with an emphasis in creative writing. Ashley worked as an editorial assistant and then editor on loans and mortgages conten...
See Full Bio
Deputy Editor, Education
Rachel WitkowskiCorrespondent/Editor
Rachel Witkowski is an award-winning journalist whose 20-year career spans a wide range of topics in finance, government regulation and congressional reporting. Ms. Witkowski has spent the last decade in Washington, D.C., reporting for publications i...
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Rachel WitkowskiCorrespondent/Editor
Rachel Witkowski is an award-winning journalist whose 20-year career spans a wide range of topics in finance, government regulation and congressional reporting. Ms. Witkowski has spent the last decade in Washington, D.C., reporting for publications i...
See Full Bio
Rachel Witkowski
Rachel WitkowskiCorrespondent/Editor
Rachel Witkowski is an award-winning journalist whose 20-year career spans a wide range of topics in finance, government regulation and congressional reporting. Ms. Witkowski has spent the last decade in Washington, D.C., reporting for publications i...
See Full Bio
Rachel WitkowskiCorrespondent/Editor
Rachel Witkowski is an award-winning journalist whose 20-year career spans a wide range of topics in finance, government regulation and congressional reporting. Ms. Witkowski has spent the last decade in Washington, D.C., reporting for publications i...
See Full Bio
Reviewed
& 1 other
Updated: Sep 11, 2024, 7:04pm
Editorial Note: We earn a commission from partner links on Forbes Advisor. Commissions do not affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.
Refinancing your auto loan can help reduce your monthly payments, whether you lock in a lower interest rate or speed up the time it takes to pay off your car loan. Whatever the reason, it’s important to first shop around to find the best auto refinance rates.
Forbes Advisor evaluated dozens of auto refinance lenders based on items including loan costs, eligibility requirements and customer reviews. We also looked at the minimum annual percentage rate (APR) for each lender, though the rate you are offered will depend on your personal financial profile. The following nine lenders scored the highest based on these factors. Keep in mind that the exact loan terms and pricing you receive will depend on your personal financial profile.
Read More
Auto Loan Basics
- Best Auto Loan Rates
- Best Auto Refinance Rates
- Auto Loan Calculator
- Car Loan Payoff Calculator
Why you can trust Forbes Advisor
Featured Partner Offers
1
Gravity Lending
APR range
4.99% to 14.99%
Minimum Credit Score
640
Loan amounts
$10,000 to $200,000
Best Auto Loan Refinancing Lenders of 2024
LendingClub
3.9
Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
APR range
Starting at 4.99%
Loan amounts
$4,000 to $55,000
Minimum Credit Score
510
On MoneyLion’s Website
Starting at 4.99%
$4,000 to $55,000
510
Editor’s Take
LendingClub offers terms from 24 to 84 months and auto loans between $4,000 to $55,000. The maximum amount you can refinance is on the low side compared to other lenders, so keep that in mind if you have a higher loan balance.
To qualify for an auto refinance with LendingClub, you must have at least 24 months of payments left on your current vehicle and it must be for personal use only. The vehicle must also be no more than 10 years old and have mileage under 120,000.
Pros & Cons
- No origination fee or prepayment penalty
- Low minimum credit score
- Fast funding available
- Low maximum loan amount
- Not available in all states
Details
Availability
LendingClub auto loans are available in most states except Alaska, Hawaii, Maine, Mississippi, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Vermont, West Virginia and Wyoming.
Turnaround time
LendingClub offers funding in two days or more.
Credit requirements
LendingClub requires a minimum credit score of .
Consumers Credit Union (CCU)
3.8
Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
APR range
Starting at 6.54%
with autopay
Loan amounts
Up to $600,000 (no minimum)
Minimum Credit Score
None
On Consumers Credit Union’s Website
Starting at 6.54%
with autopay
Up to $600,000 (no minimum)
None
Editor’s Take
Consumers Credit Union (CCU) is an Illinois-based nonprofit organization that provides a variety of banking and lending products, including auto loan refinancing. Borrowers can refinance loan amounts up to $600,000, according to a credit union representative. The high loan limit is helpful if you’re looking to refinance a large amount. Repayment terms are very flexible and go up to 84 months.
If you are approved, CCU will send the funds directly to your previous lender to pay off your old loan. You can also take advantage of a 0.25% rate discount if you sign up for automatic payments.
Keep in mind that while you don’t have to be a CCU member to apply for refinancing, you’ll have to join the credit union if you are approved and want to accept the loan. Anyone who pays a one-time $5 fee to the Consumers Cooperative Association is eligible for membership.
Pros & Cons
- No minimum loan amount
- 0.25% autopay discount
- Same-day funding available
- Must join the credit union to finalize the loan
- Membership requires $5 fee
- Charges late fees
Details
Availability
CCU auto loans are available in all 50 states as well as Washington, D.C. Keep in mind, though, that you’ll have to meet membership eligibility requirements to finalize a loan.
Turnaround time
If you’re approved for a loan, CCU offers funding as soon as the same day. The funds will be sent directly to your previous lender.
Credit Requirements
CCU doesn’t have a specific minimum credit score. Approval will depend on various factors in the applicant’s financial history, such as debt and income.
Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU)
3.5
Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
APR range
Starting at 4.54%
Loan amounts
$5,000 minimum (no maximum)
Minimum Credit Score
Does not disclose
On MoneyLion’s Website
Starting at 4.54%
$5,000 minimum (no maximum)
Does not disclose
Editor’s Take
Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU) was initially founded in 1933 by a group of U.S. Navy Department employees, but has since grown to include members from each branch of the U.S. military as well as their family members. Auto refinancing through NFCU starts at $5,000 with no set maximum, and repayment terms range from 12 to 96 months. A key perk that differentiates NFCU’s auto loan product from competitors is that it offers $200 to qualifying borrowers who refinance their auto loan with NFCU if it came from another lender.
Like other credit unions, NFCU doesn’t require you to be a member to apply for refinancing, but you’ll have to join if you are approved and want to accept the loan. To be eligible for membership, you (or one of your family members) must have ties to the U.S. military, Department of Defense or National Guard.
Pros & Cons
- No set loan maximum
- $200 cashback for refinancing your auto loan from another lender
- Terms up to 96 months
- Must join the credit union to finalize the loan
- Charges late fees
- Autopay discount not offered
Details
Availability
NFCU auto refinance loans are available in all 50 states as well as Washington, D.C. You can also apply online or through their mobile app.
Turnaround time
If you are approved, you can expect your loan to be funded within one to seven days. Keep in mind that a check will be either sent to your address or made available for pick up at a local branch, which could take longer compared to funding from other online lenders.
Credit Requirements
NFCU does not disclose a minimum credit score on its website but you might need a credit score of at least Does not disclose to qualify, according to other external websites that evaluate the lender.
U.S. Bank
3.2
Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
APR range
Starting at 8.71%
Loan amounts
Depends on area you live in
Minimum Credit Score
650
Via MoneyLion’s Website
Starting at 8.71%
Depends on area you live in
650
Editor’s Take
U.S. Bank is one of the largest banks in the country. In addition to banking, wealth management and business services, it also offers several lending products, including auto refinancing. Repayment terms range from 12 to 72 months.
Keep in mind that while you might get approved for refinancing through U.S. Bank with a credit score as low as 650 , you’ll need a score of at least 800 to qualify for the lowest available interest rates. However, you could get a 0.50% rate discount if you have a U.S. Bank checking or savings account and sign up for automatic payments.
Pros & Cons
- 0.50% autopay discount if payments are made from a U.S. Bank checking or savings account
- Funding in as little as one day after approval
- Competitive rates for borrowers with excellent credit
- Must refinance at least $5,000
- Charges early closure fee if you close your account within one year
- Refinance loans only available in 26 states
Details
Availability
While U.S. Bank is a large bank, its auto refinancing loans are reportedly only available in 26 states.
Turnaround time
U.S. Bank funds refinancing loans within one to seven days after approval.
Credit Requirements
You must have a credit score of at least 650 to qualify with U.S. Bank.
LightStream
3.6
Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
APR range
Starting at 7.49*
with AutoPay and Excellent Credit
Loan amounts
$5,000 to $100,000
Minimum Credit Score
660
On MoneyLion’s Website
Starting at 7.49*
with AutoPay and Excellent Credit
$5,000 to $100,000
660
Editor’s Take
LightStream offers auto refinance terms from 36 to 84 months and loan amounts from $5,000 to $100,000 , which could make LightStream a good option if you’re looking to borrow a large amount. The lowest rate above is based on a borrower with excellent credit, and includes a 0.50% discount that LightStream offers to borrowers who sign up for autopay.
You can apply for LightStream auto refinancing online and get funds deposited directly into your account. LightStream does not impose any vehicle restrictions on the borrower, either. No matter the year, make, model or mileage, you could still qualify.
Pros & Cons
- Same-day funding offered
- Offers autopay discount
- No late payment fees or prepayment penalty
- No prequalification process
- Must have good to excellent credit to qualify for best rate
- Poor TrustPilot customer reviews
Details
Availability
LightStream offers auto loans in all 50 states.
Turnaround time
LightStream offers same-day funding and can fund your loan as soon as the same day you apply.
Credit requirements
LightStream requires a minimum credit score of 660. However, you will need an excellent credit score in order to get the lowest interest rate offered. Conversely, the maximum APR is 20.49%.
Bank of America
3.5
Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
APR range
Starting at 7.44%
Loan amounts
$7,500 minimum (no maximum)
Minimum Credit Score
580
On MoneyLion’s Website
Starting at 7.44%
$7,500 minimum (no maximum)
580
Editor’s Take
Bank of America offers auto refinancing terms of 48, 60 and 72 months if you apply online, but the bank says you can discuss other terms with a loan officer after submitting your application. The bank offers loan amounts ranging around $7,500 to $100,000, according to different websites. However, keep in mind that the vehicle you plan to refinance can’t be older than 10 years.
Bank of America offers rate discounts from 0.25% to 0.50% if you already have a relationship with them—like a checking or savings account. You can also apply for an auto refinance loan with the bank completely online.
Pros & Cons
- Rate discount for bank customers
- Fast funding available
- No prepayment penalty
- No prequalification available
- Charges a late payment fee
Details
Availability
Bank of America offers auto loans in all 50 states as well as Washington, D.C.
Turnaround time
Bank of America typically offers funding within one business day.
Credit requirements
Bank of America requires a minimum credit score of 580.
Capital One
3.4
Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
APR range
Capital One does not disclose this information
Loan amounts
$7,500 to $50,000
Minimum Credit Score
540
Via MoneyLion’s Website
Capital One does not disclose this information
$7,500 to $50,000
540
Editor’s Take
Capital One offers auto refinancing loans of $7,500 to $50,000 , but they don’t disclose the term length. The bank does, however, offer prequalification for their auto refinancing loans which will not affect your credit.
To qualify, you must also have a minimum monthly income of $1,500, and your vehicle can’t be more than 10 years old, among other restrictions.
Pros & Cons
- Offers prequalification with a soft credit check
- Fast funding available
- Low minimum credit score
- Low maximum loan amount
- Does not disclose the length of loan terms available
- Can’t refinance a Capital One auto loan
Details
Availability
Capital One offers auto loans in all states except Alaska and Hawaii.
Turnaround time
Capital One offers funding within one business day after approval.
Credit requirements
Capital One requires a minimum credit score of 540 .
PenFed Credit Union
3.4
Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
APR range
Starting at 5.44%
Loan amounts
$500 to $150,000
Minimum Credit Score
PenFed does not disclose this information
Learn More
Read Our Full Review
Starting at 5.44%
$500 to $150,000
PenFed does not disclose this information
Editor’s Take
PenFed auto loans have terms from 36 to 84 months, but if you’re refinancing a used vehicle the maximum term is 72 months. The credit union offers auto refinancing amounts from $500 to $150,000, which is a good option if you need to finance a smaller amount.
PenFed also permits cash-out refinancing, allowing you to borrow more than you currently owe on your car to use for other expenses. You can borrow up to 125% of the amount needed in the U.S. and up to 110% in Puerto Rico and Virgin Islands. You can also apply for a PenFed loan completely online.
Pros & Cons
- Low minimum loan amount for some terms
- Offers cash-out refinancing
- 100% online application process
- Requires credit union membership
- Does not disclose minimum credit score needed to qualify
- Charges a late payment fee
Details
Availability
PenFed offers auto loans in all 50 states.
Turnaround time
PenFed offers funding in one day or less after you close on the loan.
Credit requirements
PenFed does not disclose the minimum credit score needed to qualify for their auto loans.
Digital Federal Credit Union (DCU)
3.4
Our ratings take into account loan cost, loan details, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and application process. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
APR range
Starting at 6.74%
Loan amounts
Up to 130% of book value
Minimum Credit Score
DCU does not disclose this information
Via MoneyLion’s Website
Starting at 6.74%
Up to 130% of book value
DCU does not disclose this information
Editor’s Take
Based in Massachusetts, DCU provides a wide range of banking and lending products, including auto refinancing. You can refinance up to 130% of your car’s value with repayment terms from 36 to 84 months. Additionally, you could qualify for up to 0.50% off your rate if you sign up for direct deposits to and automatic payments from a DCU checking account. Another 0.25% can be taken off your rate if you have an energy-efficient vehicle.
Keep in mind that while you don’t need to be a DCU member to apply for auto refinancing, you’ll have to join the credit union if you are approved and want to accept the loan.
Pros & Cons
- 0.50% rate discount for memberships who sign up for direct deposits to and automatic payments from a DCU checking account
- Terms as short as six months
- No payments required for the first 60 days of the loan
- Must join the credit union to finalize the loan
- Doesn’t disclose minimum credit score requirements
- Charges late fees
Details
Availability
Auto refinance loans from DCU are available in all 50 states. Remember that you’ll have to meet membership eligibility requirements to finalize a loan, though.
Turnaround time
If you are approved and your DCU loan has been finalized, a check will be delivered via FedEx—typically within two to three business days.
Credit Requirements
DCU doesn’t disclose its minimum credit score requirements.
Summary: Best Auto Loan Refinancing Lenders
| Company | Company - Logo | Forbes Advisor Rating | Forbes Advisor Rating - Image | APR Range | Loan amount | Minimum credit score | Turnaround time | Learn More CTA text | Learn more CTA below text | VIEW MORE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LendingClub |  | 3.9 |  | Starting at 4.99% | $4,000 to $55,000 | 510 | 2 days or more | Learn More | Via MoneyLion’s Website | |
| Consumers Credit Union (CCU) |  | 3.8 | | Starting at 6.54% (with autopay) | Up to $600,000 (no minimum) | None | Same-day funding available | Learn More | On Consumers Credit Union’s Website | |
| Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU) |  | 3.5 |  | Starting at 4.54% | $5,000 minimum (no maximum) | Does not disclose | 1 to 7 days | Learn More | Via MoneyLion’s Website | |
| U.S. Bank |  | 3.2 |  | Starting at 8.71% | Depends on area you live in | 650 | 1 to 7 days | Learn More | Via MoneyLion’s Website | |
| LightStream |  | 3.6 | | Starting at 7.49* (with autopay) | $5,000 to $100,000 | 660 | Same day funding offered | Learn More | Via MoneyLion’s Website | |
| Bank of America |  | 3.5 | | Starting at 7.44% | $7,500 minimum (no maximum) | 580 | Within one business day | Learn More | Via MoneyLion’s Website | |
| Capital One |  | 3.4 | | Capital One does not disclose this information | $7,500 to $50,000 | 540 | Within 1 business day of being approved | Learn More | Via MoneyLion’s Website | |
| PenFed Credit Union |  | 3.4 | | Starting at 5.44% | $500 to $150,000 | PenFed does not disclose this information | 1 day or less after closing | Learn More | Via MoneyLion’s Website | |
| Digital Federal Credit Union (DCU) |  | 3.4 | | Starting at 6.74% (with autopay) | Up to 130% of book value | DCU does not disclose this information | 2 to 3 business days | Learn More | Via MoneyLion’s Website |
Tips for Comparing Auto Refinance Lenders
When comparing auto refinance lenders, consider these tips:
- Prequalify with multiple lenders.Some lenders offer prequalification, which lets you see what terms you may receive without impacting your credit score. This can help you compare interest rates, loan terms and other factors to determine your best option before submitting your formal application.
- Keep track of your credit score.There’s no standard minimum credit score requirement for an auto refinance loan. However, your credit score can significantly impact the terms you receive, such as your interest rate. We recommend a minimum credit score of 670 but aim for a score of at least 720 to land the best interest rates.
- Account for fees early on.Lenders typically charge fees and expenses up front, including lender, transaction, registration and loan origination fees. You may also encounter unexpected fees during the life of your loan. These can include a late payment fee or a prepayment penalty, which happens when you pay off the loan early. Consider these fees before selecting a specific lender.
What Does It Mean To Refinance a Car Loan?
When you refinance a car loan, you take out an additional loan to repay your existing debt in full. Some refinance lenders repay your old loan automatically while others require that you repay it manually.
Your new loan typically features a new repayment term, interest rate and fees that better suit your payment capabilities. For example, a longer term and lower interest rate could lower your monthly payments, saving you money over time.
Note that refinancing can temporarily hurt your credit score because it requires a hard credit check when you submit your application. Hard credit inquiries typically ding your credit score between one and five points. You can boost your score by repaying your loan on time every month.
Pros and Cons of Refinancing Car Loan
Refinancing your car loan can be financially beneficial if done strategically. The benefits could position you for long-term financial stability and success. However, in some instances, it can also hinder your financial well-being.
Consider the benefits and pitfalls of auto refinancing before deciding if it’s right for you.
Pros
- Better interest rates.If your credit score has improved since applying for your original car loan, refinancing can help you land a lower interest rate. Auto refinance rates change often, so it’s good practice to monitor them to find a rate that’s below the national average or better than your current loan’s rate.
- Lower monthly payments.You can lower your monthly payment by refinancing to a loan with a lower interest rate or longer loan term. However, while longer loan terms result in lower monthly payments, you’ll pay more interest over the life of the loan than you would with a shorter loan term.
- Faster repayment time.If you’ve increased your income and can put more funds toward your monthly loan payment, refinancing to a shorter term with higher monthly payments could allow you to pay off your loan faster.
- Debt consolidation.If you used multiple loans to purchase your car, refinancing is a good way to consolidate your debt, which combines all of your debt expenses into one monthly payment.
Cons
- Higher overall interest.If you choose to refinance into a longer term loan, you’ll pay more interest over the life of the loan.
- Unexpected fees.Auto refinancing comes with additional expenses that blindside some borrowers. Some common fees include a title transfer fee, late payment fee and prepayment penalty—issued by the original lender.
- Vehicle depreciation.A vehicle typically loses 20% of its value in the first year after it leaves the lot and 10% every year afterward. As such, refinancing a vehicle that’s worth less than your loan brings negative equity—also known as being “upside down” on your loan. You won’t be able to trade the vehicle or take out any additional loans until you take care of the negative equity.
When Should You Refinance Your Car Loan?
Here are some instances in which it makes sense to refinance a car loan:
- Your credit or income has improved.If you had bad credit when you took out your original car loan, you likely didn’t qualify for a low rate. But if you’ve been consistently making on-time monthly payments, your credit score might have improved. Or maybe you’ve fixed some inaccuracies on your credit report,improving your score. With better credit, you could qualify for lower rates when you apply to refinance. The new rate could result in a lower monthly payment, shorter loan length, or both.
- Interest rates have fallen.Interest rates fluctuate constantly. If rates have decreased since you took out your original loan, it might be a good time to refinance. A lower rate can reduce your monthly payment and overall interest paid.
- You need to lower your monthly payment.If you need some more wiggle room in your budget after a job loss or other issue, you could refinance for an extended term to reduce your monthly payments. Increasing the length of your loan will cost more in total interest over the life of the loan, but it can relieve the burden on your monthly budget.
- You want to pay off your car sooner.Refinancing into a shorter term typically comes with lower interest rates. So if you have extra cash on hand, you might consider refinancing to a shorter term and paying off the car faster. Not only would you be eliminating the debt sooner, but you’d also save on interest owed and pay less overall.
Car Loan Requirements
Every lender determines eligibility differently, but there are some documents and information they typically require to refinance your auto loan.
- Personal information:You’ll need to prove you are who you say you are, so be prepared with a copy of your driver’s license or proof of residence, phone number and Social Security or another identity number. Lenders want to know that you’ll be able to repay your loan, so they’ll ask about your income, current debt and your employer’s information. They might also ask for a paycheck stub, a tax return or your employment history.
- Vehicle information:The lender will need to make an accurate valuation on the vehicle under consideration for financing, so they’ll want to know the VIN, make, model, mileage, year and registration number. You might also be asked to provide evidence of activeauto insurance.
- Current loan information:Be prepared to provide the name of your current auto lender, loan number, current balance, monthly payment and payoff amount. Typically, lenders like to see an on-time payment history of at least two years before they’re willing to approve you for refinancing. But check with your lender since it can vary.
How To Refinance a Car Loan
Theprocess of refinancing an auto loanisn’t that different from taking out an auto loan in the first place. Whenbuying a car, you’ll want to consider factors beyond the interest rate, like lender fees, how much you can borrow, lender turnaround time and minimum credit score requirements. Here are the steps you can take to refinance:
- Collect your loan documents.Gather your current loan documents and information about your vehicle, like the vehicle identification number (VIN) and current mileage.
- Shop around for a lender.You can refinance an auto loan at most of the same lenders that offer standard auto loans. It might make sense to start with the lender who services your current loan or a bank or credit union you already have a relationship with.
- Complete the loan application.Filling out an application is typically a simple process. The lender will explain the loan terms before you’re required to sign anything.
- Review the terms before you sign.Don’t rush into signing anything. If you’re uneasy or unclear, ask questions. Make sure you understand the terms clearly before you agree, including any fees and charges.
- Close on the loan.Once your loan is approved, the lender willpay off your old auto loanand provide you with all of the signed documents. All future payments will now go to the new lender. Make sure to keep a copy for your records.
Methodology
We reviewed 22 popular auto refinance lenders based on 16 data points in the categories of loan details, loan costs, eligibility and accessibility, customer experience and the application process. Lenders who did not publicly disclose basic information of loan terms, like how many years they will finance or dollar minimums and maximums, were disqualified. We chose the best lenders based on the weighting assigned to each category:
- Loan cost:30%
- Eligibility and accessibility:25%
- Loan details:20%
- Customer experience:15%
- Application process:10%
Within each major category, we also considered several characteristics, including available loan amounts, repayment terms, APR ranges, applicable fees and available discounts. We also looked at minimum credit score requirements, maximum accepted mileages, whether each lender accepts co-signers or co-borrowers and the geographic availability of the lender.
Finally, we evaluated each provider’s customer support tools, borrower perks and features that simplify the borrowing process—like online application options, mobile apps and turnaround time.
Where appropriate, we awarded partial points depending on how well a lender met each criterion. Note that these rankings only comprise lenders that offer direct lending to consumers; companies that partner with multiple lenders or offer a lending marketplace were not included.
To learn more about how Forbes Advisor rates lenders, and our editorial process, check out our.
Forbes Advisor Contributor Jamie Young and Contributor Jeanie Correa contributed to this article.
What happens when I refinance a car loan?
When you refinance a car loan, you essentially apply for a new auto loan, which pays off your current loan. This results in a completely new loan agreement, with a new interest rate and new loan term (the length of your loan in months).
Once your original loan is paid off, you’ll resume making monthly payments—this time on your new loan. Make sure to verify the old loan was paid off; you’ll need to contact your previous lender and make sure that it’s been paid in full.
When should I not refinance my car loan?
While refinancing a car loan can be a smart opportunity to save money, there are some situations in which refinancing is not financially sound:
- Your car is almost all paid off.Refinancing a loan has more bang for the buck when you’re in the early stages of repayment. At the beginning of your loan, most of your payment goes toward interest with a little going toward equity. But as the loan nears the end of its life, that flips; more of the payment goes into equity than interest. So any savings that you might achieve from refinancing to a lower rate would be negligible.
- You’ll incur a prepayment penalty.Some lenders charge a fee for paying off a car loan early, so you’ll want to carefully read your contract before you refinance. The prepayment penalties are designed to dissuade you from refinancing too early.
- Your credit has taken a hit.If you had good credit when you took out the original car loan but it has dipped into the fair or poor range, refinancing will likely cost you more than it will save you. Plus, when you apply for a refinance, the lender will pull your credit, which can lower your credit score even further.
- Your car has excessive mileage.Excessive mileage is one of the indicators of auto depreciation. If your car’s odometer reading is unusually high, the depreciation will affect its value and refinance potential. You might find that you can’t get a better rate than what you currently have, making it pointless to refinance.
- You owe more money on your car than it’s worth.If this is the case, it’s probably not a good idea to refinance. You might be able to get the funding, but your interest rate will probably be higher and will cost you more in the long run.
- You’re applying for a mortgage.If the credit bureaus see simultaneous inquiries for an auto loan and a mortgage, it can impact whether or not you get the home loan. To avoid a credit reporting hit, try spacing the two loans out by several months. Plus,getting a mortgageand a car loan in the same year can change yourdebt-to-income (DTI) ratioand affect the amount of loan you qualify for.
Can I refinance a car loan with bad credit?
It’s possible to get anauto loan with bad credit, but just like with any loan your credit score matters. And if you have bad credit, it could be more difficult to find a lender willing to refinance your car with good terms.
Credit score requirements are unique for each lender, but some work with scores as low as 520. However, it’s recommended that you have a credit score of 670 or higher to get a good interest rate.
Can I refinance if I owe more than my car is worth?
If the outstanding loan amount on your car is higher than the car’s market value, you’re said to have negative equity or to be “upside down” on your loan. And if you’re thinking of refinancing that loan, it might be tough to find a willing lender.
If interest rates are lower than what they were when you originally took out the loan, you’re more likely to get lender approval, allowing you to pay off the car faster and with some equity.
Some lenders might suggest other options like deferrals or penalty fee waivers. The idea, though, is when you find yourself in a tough financial situation or an upside-down loan, pick up the phone and call. Lenders will usually do their best to help.
How much does it cost to refinance my car loan?
Just like with any loan, an auto refinancing loan has added costs, including potential fees and charges to close the refinancing.
- Transaction fee:This might also be labeled processing or application fee and can be charged by both your current lender and the new refinancing lender. Always ask the lender if they’ll waive this fee; it’s not uncommon for them to do so.
- Title transfer fee:Some states charge you to move the title from your old lender to the new one.
- Registration fee:You might be required to re-register your car when you refinance. Check with your state DMV.
- Late payment fee:Your lender can (and usually does) penalize you when you’re late with a payment. Note your due date and how long the grace period is. Anything past that is considered late and will likely cost you.
- Early termination fee:Not as common, but some lenders charge an early termination fee, or prepayment penalty, if the loan is paid off early.
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How soon can you refinance an auto loan?
Generally, you can’tapply for a refinance loanuntil you receive your vehicle’s title from the dealership or the previous owner. This process can take between 60 and 90 days, according to J.D. Power. Some lenders, however, have a minimum repayment period, which can range from a few months to multiple years before you’re eligible for a refinance.
It’s essential to note that prequalifying and applying for auto financing can negativelyimpact your credit score. Therefore, letting your credit recover from your initial loan application may be wise before applying for a refinance loan.
How many times can you refinance an auto loan?
You can refinance your loan as often as you qualify with a lender that offers auto refinancing. However, some lenders may reject your application if you’ve refinanced too many times, which can indicate poor repayment habits. Refinancing also requires a hard credit inquiry, which can ding your credit score.
We recommend limiting the number of times you refinance and select the best loan for your financial situation.
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