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New Car Loan: When it comes to purchasing a brand-new vehicle, understanding the intricacies of the landscape can be the key to driving away with the best deal. With research as our compass, we’ve unearthed valuable insights that every Australian should know before taking the plunge.
Our analysis reveals a surprising trend: a significant number of Australian lenders, including some of the most prominent banks, are packaging unsecured personal loans under the ‘car loans’ banner. These unsecured loans, when stacked against secured car loans, can be notably costlier, especially for new cars.
Here’s a scenario to consider: On a typical loan of $35,000, a borrower might end up paying:
A hefty $938 every month on the priciest unsecured loan targeted at new car buyers (with a 20.54% p.a. variable comparison rate). Conversely, the same borrower could be dishing out a mere $692 monthly with a prime lender from Auto Now Credit (at a 6.91% fixed comparison rate). The math is clear: over a 5-year term, this discrepancy can add up to an astonishing $15,000.
So, how can you ensure you clinch the best deal? Let’s gear up and dive deep.
The Essence of a New Car Loan
Determining Your Borrowing Capacity
Mapping Out the Tenure
Steering Clear of Hidden Car Loan Fees
Features to Supercharge Your New Car Loan Savings
Eligibility Checkpoints for a New Car Loan
Accelerating the Approval Process
FAQ
What is a "New Car Loan"?
A “New Car Loan” is a secured personal loan specifically tailored for purchasing brand-new vehicles. The car you buy serves as collateral, ensuring that if repayments aren’t met, the lender can repossess the vehicle.
How do unsecured loans compare to "New Car Loans" in terms of cost?
Unsecured loans can be notably costlier than new car loans. For instance, on a typical $35,000 loan, a borrower might pay $938 monthly on an unsecured loan, whereas with a new car loan, the amount could be as low as $692 monthly.
What factors determine how much I can borrow with a "New Car Loan"?
The loan amount hinges on various factors including your credit history, steady income, monthly expenses, and other financial commitments.
How long is the typical duration for a "New Car Loan"?
The duration for a new car loan typically spans between two to seven years, with five years being the most preferred by borrowers.
Are there any fees I should be aware of when taking a "New Car Loan"?
Yes, borrowers should be vigilant about potential fees such as initial setup or application fees, recurring charges, penalties for additional payments or early settlements, and charges arising from missed repayments.
What features can help me save on my "New Car Loan"?
Opting for features like the ability to make extra repayments without penalties, redrawing surplus repayments, zero charges for early loan closure, and flexible repayment schedules can lead to significant savings.
How quickly can I get approved for a "New Car Loan"?
Many lenders offer same-day pre-approvals, especially if you have all your documentation in order. Typically, you can be driving your new car in just 2-3 business days.
What's the main difference between secured and unsecured car loans?
The primary difference is the collateral. In secured car loans, like a “New Car Loan”, the vehicle serves as security, reducing risk for lenders and usually resulting in a more favourable interest rate for borrowers. Unsecured loans do not require collateral but often come with higher interest rates.