Tuesday, July 16, 2019

Car loan interest rates: Everything you need to know!


There was a time when owning a four-wheeler was a luxury quotient, and not all could afford it. But with the means of car loans, everyone can purchase their dream vehicle. This is because the car has become a necessity and you cannot imagine your life without one, considering you require a four-wheeler to go to work, complete duties, or drive leisurely.

Auto loans are secured, and hence, you do not need not mortgage any property or asset for the same. Your vehicle acts as the security. It allows you to purchase both used and new cars. Such loans are available under two types of interest rates – floating and fixed. 

Let us learn about these types in detail – 

Fixed rates: A fixed car loan interest rate remains constant throughout or for a part of the duration. Hence, the payment remains the same as well. This allows the applicants to plan their finances as well. 

Floating rates: Also known as variable car loan interest, is the one which varies from time to time. The rates fluctuate owing to the market conditions and are decided based on the current Floating Reference Rate (FRR). There is always a risk associated with floating rates since they fluctuate when the market conditions change. 

How does eligibility factors affect your interest rates? 

Although many lenders offer a predetermined interest rate, they can increase or decrease owing to the inability to match the eligibility conditions. 

Credit score: As aware, the required credit score range is between 300 to 900. If your rating is around 740, you are likely to receive lower interest rates. A good score is an indication that the lender considers you less risky since you have been obedient with your previous repayment. In case you want a lower car loan interest rate, it is better to keep your credit score healthy. Good credit ratings also fetch you additional benefits. 

Repayment tenure: The duration also affects your interest rates. The longer the mandate, the EMIs lower and interest rates increase. On the other hand, shorter tenure lowers the prices and increases EMI. This is why you should opt for a balanced term. 

Loan amount: The credit amount also hurts the interest rates. If you go for a high amount, you may receive lower car loan interest and vice versa. This, however, varies from lender to lender.

Relationship with the lender: If you share a good rapport with the lender, regarding payments and other transactions, you may receive the credit at lower rates. Before approaching other lenders for the loan, check the interest rates with your existing lender. 

Income: If your salary is towards the higher side, you may benefit from low-interest rates. It indicates a higher repayment capacity. 

What about interest rates for used car loans? 

Do you know lenders offer auto loans for used four-wheelers as well? The interest rates are usually lower than the ones for new investments. The detrimental factors here are the age of the vehicle, duration, etc. The best part about the used car is you can own an expensive vehicle for a lesser price.

How do you choose a suitable lender for your financial requirements?

 Banks have traditionally conventionally issued personal loans. These are known as "Vanilla" personal loans because they have a r...