Smart Car-Buying Strategies for Fall

Consider these strategies to secure your dream car this fall:

1. Know Your Budget Before You Shop

Before stepping into a dealership, take time to review your finances. Remember, it’s not just the sticker price you need to understand, but also ongoing costs like insurance, fuel, maintenance, and registration.

• A good rule of thumb: Your monthly car payment should fit comfortably into your budget without straining other priorities like savings or everyday expenses.
• Online loan calculators: These can give you a clear picture of what your monthly payment will look like at different loan amounts and terms. Check out our handy tools to help you compare!

 

2. Check Your Credit Score

Your credit score will impact the rate you pay for an auto loan. The higher your score, the lower your interest rate is likely to be. If your score is poor, it can affect your payments and overall budget.

• Review your credit report to see your score and check for errors before you apply.
• If your score needs improvement, consider paying down debt or making consistent on-time payments to boost your rating. Depending on your situation and immediate needs, it may be worthwhile to improve your score before applying.
• Ask us for more tips on understanding your credit score and how to improve it.

Did you know? Experian reports that buyers with excellent credit can save over $6,000 in interest on a typical five-year auto loan compared to those with fair credit.²

 

3. Get Pre-Approved for Financing

Walking into a dealership with a pre-approved auto loan is one of the smartest moves you can make.  

• It prepares your budget ahead of time, so you don’t get upsold into more car than you need.
• It gives you bargaining power, enabling you to focus on negotiating the price of the car — not the financing.
• At Advance Financial Federal Credit Union, we’ll help you to get pre-approved quickly and easily, with competitive rates as low as 3.99% APR*.

4. Check Your Credit Score

Both new and used vehicles have benefits:

• New cars come with the latest technology, warranties, and features, but also a higher price tag.
• Used cars often deliver more value, with lower upfront costs and slower depreciation.

Already have a vehicle loan elsewhere? 

Refinancing a high-rate loan at a lower rate can reduce your monthly payment or help shorten your term — saving you money over time. This is one of the most effective ways to lower your monthly expenses.

Buying from a private seller? Keep these tips in mind:

• Always request a vehicle history report (Carfax, AutoCheck, etc.) to confirm mileage and accident history.
• Arrange a pre-purchase inspection with a trusted mechanic.
• Meet in a safe, public place (many police stations provide “safe exchange zones”).
• Double-check the title is clear of liens before you exchange money.

5. Understand the Extras

When it comes to financing, it’s important to research any add-ons that can protect your purchase and give you added peace of mind:

• GAP (guaranteed asset protection) helps cover the difference between your car’s value and your loan balance in the event of a total loss. It’s valuable protection that can ease the cost of replacing your vehicle without adding financial stress.
• Extended Warranty (mechanical repair coverage) helps manage repair costs after the manufacturer’s warranty ends. It provides added peace of mind at a competitive price and can even be added to a vehicle financed elsewhere.
• Debt Protection helps safeguard your loan if the unexpected happens. These plans can reduce the financial burden on you or your loved ones during difficult times.

All of these options are available through AFFCU and can be conveniently rolled into your financing, making them both affordable and easy to manage.

6. Take Advantage of Seasonal Deals

Fall is one of the best times to buy a car. Dealerships often clear out older models to make room for new inventory, which can mean extra discounts. Combine those offers with your credit union’s low financing and special promotions, and you could save significantly.

Right now at AFFCU, you’ll enjoy rates as low as 3.99% APR* on new, used, and refinanced vehicles — plus a $100 cash bonus for every auto loan funded. That’s extra cash in your pocket for gas, insurance, fall fun, or holiday shopping.

 

7. Test Drive and Research Thoroughy

Never rush the process when buying a vehicle. Always:

• Test drive multiple vehicles.
• Compare prices across dealerships.
• Check vehicle history reports on used cars.
• Read reviews and reliability ratings to make sure the car fits your long-term needs.
• Calculate maintenance, insurance, and fuel costs and realize that the vehicle you choose can make a difference in your budget and cash flow.

 

8. Apply with Confidence

Once you’ve done your homework, you’ll be ready to make a confident decision. With AFFCU, we keep the process fast, simple, and focused on you. Applications can be completed online, by phone, or at a branch — and you’ll always get local service from people who care about your well-being.

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Final Thoughts:?

Whether you’re buying your first car, upgrading to something new, or refinancing your current vehicle, we’re here to help. Make this fall the season you drive smarter — and keep more money in your wallet with AFFCU’s great rates and a $100 bonus.
 

¹ Kelley Blue Book (latest 2025 market data reports)
¹ Experian “State of the Automotive Finance Market” report (2024 year-end)

*APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Rates may vary based on the individual’s creditworthiness. Interest rates on new and used vehicles (2021 or newer) are as low as 3.99% APR for 12 to 36 months. Not all applicants will qualify for the lowest rate. Receive $100 when you close on a vehicle loan of $10,000 or more during the promotional period. Incentive will be deposited in your account at the time of loan closing. Refinancing an existing Advance Financial Federal Credit Union vehicle loan does not qualify for the $100 incentive, but may be eligible for a 3.99% APR. Offer valid as of October 1, 2025, and subject to change or cancellation without notice. Visit http://www.advancefcu.org/borrow/vehicle-loans for all rates and terms. Membership eligibility required.

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