Best Car Loans in California of April 2024

ElitePersonalFinance
Last Update: September 25, 2023 Car Loans by States and Cities

While it is essential to understand the best practices and regulations for car loans in California, it is equally important to identify the best lenders who specialize in this type of loan. Car loans are handy for those who need quick cash and are willing to use their vehicles as collateral. Most importantly, car loans don’t do credit checks, so anyone can qualify for one.

You can utilize a car loan to purchase a brand-new or previously-owned vehicle, terminate a car lease, or refinance existing auto loans. However, not every bank or credit union will work with borrowers with low credit scores or offer subprime auto loans.

To help you find the best car loans in California for 2024, we have compiled a comprehensive list of lenders offering competitive rates. We’ve researched each lender thoroughly to ensure they meet our financial stability and trustworthiness standards.

We only recommend legit lenders that operate with best practices in mind. We also recommend lenders who offer competitive interest rates, flexible terms and conditions, easy application processes, and quick funding options.

Our Marketplace


ElitePersonalFinance has the largest financial marketplace for car loans in California. It is the best place to compare and find the best loan for you, regardless of your credit score or financial history.

ElitePersonalFinance partners with reliable lenders who provide competitive rates and flexible repayment options.

Whether you have good or bad credit, ElitePersonalFinance will find you the best loan rates and best-suited lenders. All of its partners are vetted to make sure they follow best practices in lending and adhere to the rules and regulations set by California.

Why Trust Our Guides?

We scrutinize over 100 lenders before making a recommendation. We consider customer reviews, the loan terms each lender offers, and other factors like fees and repayment periods. Our team of experts has done their best to ensure you get the best car loans in California for 2024.

We know that getting a car loan can be overwhelming with all the different lenders in the market. That’s why we take the time to weigh all the best deals and options for you. Our team of experienced editors has done their best to provide comprehensive and unbiased reviews so that you make an informed decision.

In addition, our rankings consider customer experience and loan terms, like interest rates and repayment periods. We also ensure our lenders comply with California’s best practices and regulations.

Best Car Loans in California April 2024: Key Findings

CA’s best car loans offer loans between $2,500 and $150,000, with APR rates ranging between 0% and 243.36%. The best loans have flexible repayment periods of up to 85 months.

In addition, the best lenders require a minimum credit score of 560 or higher. Nonetheless, most of these lenders haven’t disclosed their exact credit score requirements.

To qualify for the best car loans in California 2024 for new car purchases or refinancing, you should be 18+ years, have a valid driver’s license and proof of income.

Additionally, you must have documentation of the vehicle’s registration, a clear car with no liens, and a valid auto insurance policy.

Best Car Loans in California of April 2024

Lender:Loan Amount:APR:TermMin. Credit Score:Best For:
Super Money$2,500 – $100,0000% – 243.36%12 – 84 months0Comparing different lenders
Capital OneStarting at $4,000Starting at 2.99%Up to 7 Years560Borrowers buying through Capital One Auto-Navigator
Bank of America$7,500 – $150,000Starting at 4,24%Up to 60 monthsUndisclosedBank of America’s reward members
Lightstream$5,000 – $100,0005.99% – 24.49%24 – 144 months660Used car purchase loan
Pentagon Federal Credit Union$500 -$150,0005.64-11.34%36 – 84 months550Low rates
Loan Center$2,000 – $50,00035.50% – 199.99%Up to 48 monthsUndisclosedSmaller car loans
SouthBay Credit UnionStarting at $2,501+4.49% – 8.99%Up to 85+ monthsUndisclosedLow fees

SuperMoney

Loan Amount:$2,500 – $100,000
APR:0% – 243.36%
Min. Credit Score:0
Approval:Same day
Terms:12 – 84 months
Fees:
  • Loan origination fees range between $100 and $500.
  • Late payment fees range between $5 and $50.
  • Most lenders don’t charge prepayment fees.
  • Ongoing maintenance fees vary by each lender.
Qualification Criteria:
  • Be at least 18 years of age.
  • A maximum D-T-I ratio of 50%.
  • An annual income of not less than $24,000.
  • Has less than 5 credit inquiries in the last 6 months.
  • No bankruptcies have been reported in the last 12 months.
  • Has three open credit lines.
  • Fill out your information through SuperMoney’s online portal.
Average Borrower Profile:
  • SuperMoney connects borrowers with personalized financial product offers from banks and other lenders.
  • Financing options are available if you have bad, fair, good, or excellent credit.
Best For:Comparing various lenders
CHECK RATES

Super Money is one of the best car loan lenders in CA for both good and bad credit because the lender compares different loan products from various lenders.

Their online portal allows you to fill out your information and get personalized offers from banks and lenders that best match your needs.

SuperMoney also has a wide range of loan amounts, from $2,500 to $100,000. They offer competitive rates with terms ranging from 12 – 84 months.

They are best for borrowers with bad, fair, good, or excellent credit who want to compare the best loan products available in California.

The lender charges origination fees between $100 and $500 and late payment fees between $5 and $50. Most lenders don’t charge prepayment fees, but some may have ongoing maintenance fees.

To qualify for the best car loans with Super Money, you must meet the qualifications listed, including having a maximum D-T-I ratio of 50%, an annual income of not less than $24,000, and three open credit lines.

The best loan option will depend on your situation, so do your research and compare loan offers before applying.

Pros:

  • Compare different loan products from various lenders.
  • Wide loan amounts between $2,500 and $100,000.
  • Competitive rates with terms from 12 to 84 months.
  • No prepayment fees for most lenders.

Cons:

  • Origination fees range between $100 and $500.
  • Late payment fees range between $5 and $50.
  • Some ongoing maintenance fees may apply depending on the lender.

The Impact of Covid-19:

Borrowers impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic can turn to SuperMoney for a number of different financial aid programs. There are programs to help with loan payments, forbearance and deferment, and counselling for free financial difficulties. Feel free to contact SuperMoney for any further assistance you may require.

Capital One

Loan Amount:From $4,000
APR:2.99% – 24.99%
Min. Credit Score:560
Approval:1 – 7 days
Terms:Up to 84 months
Fees:
  • Doesn’t charge loan origination fees.
  • A late payment fee of $41.
  • Doesn’t charge any prepayment fees.
  • Don’t charge ongoing maintenance fees.
Qualification Criteria:
  • Be at least 18 years of age.
  • An average monthly income of $1,500.
  • The vehicle should be less than 10 years old.
  • The vehicle should be less than 120,000 miles.
  • Fill out your information through Capital One’s online portal.
Average Borrower Profile:
  • Capital One doesn’t disclose the average borrower profile information.
Best For:Borrowers buying through Capital One Auto-Navigator
CHECK RATES

Capital One offers some of California’s best car loans for fair credit. The lender offers between $4,000 and $50,000 with interest rates ranging from 2.99% to 24.99%.

The loan terms range from 12 months to 84 months, depending on the amount borrowed. Capital One doesn’t charge loan origination fees and has a late payment fee of $41. There are also no prepayment or ongoing maintenance fees.

To qualify for the best car loans with the best rates through Capital One, you must meet their eligibility requirements which include being at least 18 years of age, having an average monthly income of $1,500, and having a vehicle that is less than 10 years old and 120,000 miles.

Pros:

  • Wide range of loan amounts from $4,000 to $50,00.
  • Interest rates range from 2.99% – 24.99%.
  • Terms up to 84 months are available.
  • No loan origination fees.
  • No prepayment or ongoing maintenance fees.

Cons:

  • Late payment fee of $41.

The Impact of Covid-19:

There is no specialized program at Capital One to aid customers impacted by the pandemic. Still, the financial institution strongly suggests that any affected borrowers contact them directly to see if an arrangement can be made.

Bank of America

Loan Amount:$7,500 – $150,000
APR:Starting at 4,24%
Min. Credit Score:Undisclosed
Approval:Same day
Terms:Up to 60 months
Fees:
  • No loan origination fees.
  • Late payment fees of 5%.
  • Doesn’t charge prepayment fees.
  • Ongoing maintenance fees vary by each lender.
Qualification Criteria:
  • Be at least 18 years of age.
  • You need to be at least 18 years old.
  • Possess the required legal capacity in the state of California to enter into an agreement for auto financing.
  • One must be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States (permanent or non-permanent).
  • Fill out your information through Bank of America’s online portal.
Average Borrower Profile:The Bank of America doesn’t disclose the average borrower’s profile information.
Best For:Bank of America’s reward members
CHECK RATES

Bank of America is another great car loan lender in California for borrowers with fair credit. They offer loan amounts from $7,500 to $150,000, with interest rates starting at 4.24%. The loan terms are up to 60 months, and there are no loan origination fees. There are also no prepayment fees, but late payment fees of 5% may apply, and each lender has their own maintenance fee policy.

To qualify for the best car loans through Bank of America, you must meet those eligibility requirements, which include being at least 18 years old, having the legal capacity in California to enter into an auto financing agreement, and being a citizen or permanent resident of the United States (permanent or non-permanent).

Even better, Bank of America offers a 0.25% rate discount for Gold, 0.35% for Platinum, and 0.5% for Platinum cardholders.

Pros:

  • Loan amounts up to $150,000.
  • Interest rates start at 4.24%.
  • No loan origination fees.
  • No prepayment fees.

Cons:

  • Late payment fee of 5%.Ongoing maintenance fees vary by each lender.
  • Only offers rate discounts to reward members.

The Impact of Covid-19:

Bank of America doesn’t have specific measures to help customers affected by the coronavirus pandemic. However, you can contact the lender directly at @bankofamerica.com or 888.550.6433  to see if any arrangements can be made.

LightStream

Loan Amount:$5,000 – $100,000
APR:5.99% – 24.49%
Min. Credit Score:660
Approval:1 – 7 Days
Terms:24 – 144 months
Fees:
  • There are no loan origination fees.
  • There are no late payment fees.
  • There are no closing fees.
  • There are no prepayment fees.
Qualification Criteria:
  • Be at least 18 years of age.
  • Have a credit score of at least 660.
  • The maximum DTI ratio is often 45%.
  • Have recurring employment income or government benefits.
  • Fill out your information through LightStream’s online portal.
Average Borrower Profile:
  • Takes a $10,000 3-year term auto loan.
  • Incurs a 5.99% APR.
  • Makes 36 monthly installments of $304.17 for 3 years.
Best For:Used car purchases
CHECK RATES

Lightstream is an excellent credit car loan in CA because they have some of the best rates on the market. They offer loan amounts ranging from $5,000 to $100,000 with APRs between 5.99% and 24.49%. Loan terms are available for up to 144 months, and there are no loan origination fees or late payment fees.

Even better, LightStream doesn’t charge any closing fees or prepayment fees, so you can pay off your loan early and save money. To qualify for the best car loans in California through LightStream, you must meet the eligibility criteria, which include being at least 18 years old, having a credit score of 660 or higher, having a maximum debt-to-income ratio of 45%, and having a recurring employment income or government benefits.

Pros:

  • Interest rates start at 5.99% APR.
  • No loan origination fees.
  • No late payment fees.
  • No closing fees.
  • No prepayment fees.

Cons:

  • Must have a credit score of 660 or higher to qualify.

The Impact of Covid-19:

LightStream has no specific measures to help customers affected by the coronavirus pandemic. However, borrowers in need can contact LightStream directly at customerservice@lightstream.com or 574-278-7121 to discuss any arrangements that may be available.

Pentagon Federal Credit Union

Loan Amount:$5,000 – $150,000
APR:5.64-11.34%
Min. Credit Score:550
Approval:1 – 7 Days
Terms:36 – 84 months
Fees:
  • There are no loan origination fees.
  • A late payment fee of $25.
  • An insufficient funds fee of $30.
  • There are no prepayment fees.
Qualification Criteria:
  • Be at least 18 years of age.
  • Have a credit score of at least 550.
  • A brand-new vehicle must be from 2020 or later.
  • Used cars are not considered “pre-owned” until they have accumulated at least 7,501 miles.
  • Provide a government-issued photo ID.
  • Fill out your information through LightStream’s online portal.
Average Borrower Profile:
  • PenFed doesn’t disclose the average car loan borrower profile.
Best For:Used car purchases
CHECK RATES

PenFed is one of California’s best car loan lenders for bad credit. The lender offers loan amounts up to $150,000 with APRs that range from 5.64% to 11.34%. Loan terms are available for up to 84 months, and there are no loan origination fees or prepayment fees.

In addition, PenFed doesn’t charge late payment fees, so you can make late payments without worrying about being charged an extra fee. To qualify for a car loan through PenFed, you must meet the eligibility criteria, including being at least 18 years old, having a credit score of 550 or higher, and providing a government-issued photo ID.

Additionally, for new car purchases, the car must be from the model year 2020 or later, and for used cars, they must have accumulated at least 7,501 miles.

Pros:

  • Affordable interest rates start at 5.64% APR.
  • No loan origination fees.
  • No prepayment fees.
  • Wide loan amounts up to $150,000.
  • No late payment fees.
  • Provides loans for the purchase of second-hand vehicles.
  • Provides a convenient and inexpensive way to purchase a car online.
  • Makes available as many as six different deals with varying interest rates and terms, all based on a minimal review of your credit history.

Cons:

  • You need to be a member of the credit union in order to apply for a loan.
  • For the discounted rate, you must use PenFed’s online auto-buying service.
  • Initial applications must include a social security number.

The Impact of Covid-19:

PenFed has various hardship programs available to help customers affected by the coronavirus pandemic, including loan extensions and payment deferrals. Customers in need can contact PenFed directly at 1-800-247-5626 or through their website.

Loan Center

Loan Amount:$2,000 – $50,000
APR:35.50% – 199.99%
Min. Credit Score:Undisclosed
Approval:1 – 7 Days
Terms:Up to 48 months
Fees:
  • A loan origination fee of $75.
  • A late payment fee of $10.
  • An insufficient funds fee of $30.
  • There are no prepayment fees.
Qualification Criteria:
  • At least 18 years old.
  • Certificate of ownership for a car, RV, or motorcycle.
  • Your driver’s license or another form of official identification that proves your identity.
  • In addition, you may be asked to provide additional documentation such as vehicle registration, proof of income, or proof of residency, depending on the laws in your state.
  • You need to be in possession of a clear, lien-free to your vehicle.
  • The automobile also requires an examination.
  • Fill out your information through Loan Center’s online portal or visit their branch.
Average Borrower Profile:
  • Loan Center doesn’t disclose the average car loan borrower profile.
Best For:Smaller car loans
CHECK RATES

Loan Center is a local lender headquartered at 849083 Los Angeles, CA 90084. Loan Center is one of the best car loans in California 2024 because they offer larger loan amounts than most lenders, ranging from $2,000 to $50,000. Loan Center also offers competitive APRs between 35.50% and 199.99%.

Even better, Loan Center doesn’t charge prepayment fees but charges an origination fee of $75, a late payment fee of $10, and an insufficient funds fee of $30.

To qualify for a car loan through Loan Center, you must meet the eligibility criteria, which include being at least 18 years old, holding a clear, lien-free to your vehicle, providing proof of identity, and having an automobile that passes the examination.

Pros:

  • Offers competitive APRs between 35.50% and 199.99%.
  • No prepayment fees are charged.
  • Provides larger loan amounts ranging from $2,000 to $50,000.

Cons:

  • An origination fee of $75, a late payment fee of $10, and an insufficient funds fee of $30 are charged.
  • Initial applications must include a social security number.
  • You must possess a clear, lien-free to your vehicle, and the automobile must pass an examination.

The Impact of Covid-19:

Loan Center doesn’t have specific forbearance programs for customers affected by the coronavirus pandemic. Customers are encouraged to contact Loan Center directly at 1 (877) 624-7594 or via email at WilshireCustomerCare@WilshireConsumer.com for more information about their offerings.

SouthBay Credit Union

Loan Amount:Starting at $2,501+
APR:4.49% – 8.99%
Min. Credit Score:Undisclosed
Approval:1 – 7 Days
Terms:Up to 85+ months
Fees:
  • No loan origination fees.
  • No late payment fees.
  • No insufficient funds fees.
  • There are no prepayment fees.
Qualification Criteria:
  • At least 18 years old.
  • Be a member of the credit union.
  • Be a US citizen or a resident alien.
  • Proof of income.
  • Prof of residence.
  • Fill out your information through SouthBay Credit Union’s online portal or visit their branch.
Average Borrower Profile:
  • SouthBay Credit Union doesn’t disclose the average car loan borrower profile.
Best For:Low fees
CHECK RATES

SouthBay Credit Union is a local credit union headquartered at 312 N Pacific Coast Hwy Redondo Beach, CA. The lender is one of the best car loans in California 2024 because it provides car loans with APR rates ranging from 4.49% to 8.99%. SouthBay Credit Union offers loan amounts starting at $2,501 and loan terms of up to 85+ months.

To qualify for a car loan through SouthBay Credit Union, you must meet the eligibility criteria, including being at least 18 years old and being a credit union member. You will also need to provide proof of income, residence, and other standard documentation.

Pros:

  • No loan origination fees.
  • No late payment fees.
  • No insufficient funds fees.
  • No prepayment fees.

Cons:

  • You must be a member of the credit union to qualify for the loan.
  • Initial applications may require additional documentation like proof of income and residence, among other standard documents.

The Impact of Covid-19:

SouthBay Credit Union has a loan forbearance program for customers who are experiencing financial hardship due to the coronavirus pandemic. Customers are encouraged to contact SouthBay Credit Union directly at 800.234.6999 or via email at SBCU@southbaycu.com for more information about their forbearance program.

Best Car Loans in California 2024

Here are the best car loans in CA 2024:

  • Montana capital car loans.
  • Loan center.
  • Fast loans.
  • Prestamos El Compita.
  • Logix – Burbank Branch.
  • Payday Plus.
  • CLS Credit Lending Services.
  • Southbay Credit Union.
  • Arrowhead Credit Union.
  • Culver City Toyota.
  • Lendmark Financial Services.
  • Credit Union of Southern California.
  • Speedy Cash.
  • Bank of America.
  • Chase Bank.
  • Wells Fargo.
  • University Credit Union.
  • Hanin Federal Credit Union.
  • Carvana.
  • Lightstream.
  • Super Money.
  • Capital One.
  • PenFed Credit Union.
  • My Auto Loan.
  • Consumers Credit Union.

These lenders offer competitive rates and terms and can provide you with the best car loan to meet your needs. With various options, it’s important to compare lenders to find the best one for you. Be sure to read all documents carefully before signing any agreement, and be aware of any fees or additional requirements associated with getting a car loan.

Best Car Loan Rates for Good Credit in California 2024

If you have good credit, you may qualify for lower interest rates on car loans in California. Here are some of the best loan rates offered by lenders:

  • Lightstream.
  • My Auto Loan.
  • Bank of America.
  • Chase Bank.
  • Wells Fargo.
  • University Credit Union.
  • Hanin Federal Credit Union.
  • Carvana.

California’s best car loan lenders offer competitive rates and terms to borrowers with good credit. You may be able to get an APR as low as 4.49% or even lower. Be sure to read the loan documents carefully and understand all fees and additional requirements associated with getting a car loan.

Best Car Loan Rates for Bad Credit in California 2024

If you have bad credit, you may still be able to get a car loan in California. Here are some best loan rates offered by lenders:

  • Prestamos El Compita.
  • Logix – Burbank Branch.
  • Payday Plus.
  • CLS Credit Lending Services.
  • PenFed.
  • Super Money.
  • Capital One.

These great bad credit car loan lenders in California offer competitive rates and terms to borrowers with bad credit. You may be able to get an APR as high as 8.99% or even higher. Be sure to read the loan documents carefully before signing any agreement and understand all fees and additional requirements associated with getting a car loan.

Best Car Loans for Refinance for Good Credit in California 2024

If you have good credit and need to refinance your car loan in California, here are the best options:

  • Montana Capital Car Loans.
  • Loan Center.
  • Fast Loans.
  • Southbay Credit Union.
  • Arrowhead Credit Union.
  • Culver City Toyota.
  • Lendmark Financial Services.
  • Credit Union of Southern California.
  • Speedy Cash.

California’s best car loan lenders offer competitive rates and terms to borrowers looking to refinance their existing auto loans.

Best Car Loans for Refinance for Bad Credit in California 2024

If you have bad credit, there are still the best loan rates offered by lenders to refinance a car loan in California. Here are some of the best auto loans for refinancing for bad credit:

  • Prestamos El Compita.
  • Logix – Burbank Branch.
  • Payday Plus.
  • CLS Credit Lending Services.
  • PenFed.
  • Super Money.
  • Capital One.

California’s best car loan lenders offer competitive rates and terms to borrowers with bad credit who are looking to refinance their existing auto loans. Be sure to read the loan documents carefully before signing any agreement and understand all fees and additional requirements associated with getting a car loan refinancing.

Best Auto Loans for First-Time Buyers in California 2024

If you are a first-time auto loan buyer in California, here are the best loan rates offered by lenders:

  • My Auto Loan.
  • Lightstream.
  • Bank of America.
  • Chase Bank.
  • Wells Fargo.
  • Lightstream.
  • Capital One.

California’s best car loan lenders offer competitive rates and terms to first-time auto buyers. Be sure to read the loan documents carefully before signing any agreement and understand all fees and additional requirements associated with getting a car loan for a new vehicle.

Best Banks for Auto Loans in California 2024

For those looking for the best banks for auto loans in California, here are the best options:

  • Bank of America.
  • Wells Fargo.
  • JP Morgan Chase.
  • Citibank.
  • U.S. Bank.
  • Banco Popular de Puerto Rico.
  • SunTrust Banks Inc.
  • UBS Financial Services Inc.

Check out our marketplace for the best auto loan rates from banks.

Best Credit Unions for Auto Loans in California 2024

For those looking for the best credit unions for auto loans in California, here are the best options:

  • University Credit Union.
  • Hanin Federal Credit Union.
  • TruWest Credit Union.
  • California Coast Credit Union.
  • Premier America Credit Union.
  • American Heritage Credit Union.
  • Golden 1 Credit Union.
  • LBS Financial Credit Union.
  • Star One Credit Union.
  • Arrowhead Credit Union.
  • Los Angeles Teachers Credit Union.

Check the best auto loan rates from credit unions at our marketplace.

Best Used Car Loans in California 2024

For those looking for the best used car loans in California, here are the best options:

  • RV Loans.
  • Auto Refinance Loans.
  • Capital One Auto Finance.
  • Wells Fargo Auto Loan.
  • Chase Bank Auto Loan.
  • USAA Car Buying Service.
  • Santander Consumer USA.

California’s best car loan lenders offer competitive rates and terms to borrowers looking for best-used car loans.

About Car Loans in California

The average car loan in California is around $30,000, and online lenders, banks, and credit unions offer the best car loan rates. Car loans in California can be used to purchase new or used vehicles, lease buyouts, and refinance existing auto loans.

The average APR for car loans in CA range from 5.99% to 35.99%. In addition, most lenders will require a minimum credit score of 560-660.

The average loan terms for car loans in California range from 24-85+ months, depending on the lender and type of loan.

Pros and Cons of Auto Loans in California?

Pros:

Better deals are often available.

Some online loan companies in CA are able to provide better rates on auto loans, both new and used because they don’t have to cover the costs of maintaining a physical branch network. It’s not always the case, but you should see what kind of auto loan rates virtual banks (lenders without physical branches) can offer you.

Due to the high level of competition in the online market, many banks now offer more attractive interest rates for customers who bank online rather than visiting a physical location. And while interest rates are important, you should also compare other terms, such as the loan term, maximum loan amount, and down payment policy.

Quick Approval is Possible.

Loan approval from many online lenders in CA can be processed in a matter of minutes, rather than the days it could take at a traditional bank. When purchasing a car on the fly, such as when you’re out car shopping on the weekend, that’s a huge plus.

However, when using the word “approval,” you should exercise caution. It’s possible that before they’ve had a chance to thoroughly examine the loan, some lenders will give you a conditional approval. When people tell you they are prequalified for a loan, they aren’t telling the whole story.

Even though online loan approvals may be instant, you should still set aside some time to fill out the lender’s application thoroughly and accurately. It may take more time to complete some online applications for auto loans than others.

There Are Many Financial Institutions That Would Consider Loaning You Money.

When you make a purchase from a website, you aren’t restricted to stores in your immediate area or even your state. Numerous online financing companies exist, ready to provide loans to customers anywhere in the country. Going beyond your immediate area for financial aid could help you secure a lower rate of interest, more favorable repayment terms, or lower overall costs.

Some services will submit your application to multiple lenders at once so you can easily compare rates and get multiple preapprovals with just one form.

Refinancing Online is Easy

Refinancing your car loan can help you save money in a number of ways, including the interest rate and the monthly payment amount. Many financial institutions in CA now provide convenient online refinancing options, making it simple to switch lenders. When filling out a new credit application, you need only have details about your existing auto loan handy.

Cons:

Possibility of Higher Rates.

Car loan lenders in CA may offer the best rates on auto loans, but they are not immune to market conditions. When interest rates rise, you may find that the best online car loan rate is higher than a rate offered by your local bank or credit union.

Difficulty Negotiating Terms.

It can be difficult to negotiate terms with online lenders compared to traditional banks or credit unions, where you have more personal contact and understanding of who you’re negotiating with and their policies. That said, if you research and shop for the best deal, it’s still possible to secure an attractive car loan through an online lender in CA.

Fees Can Add Up.

Car loan lenders in CA may charge origination fees, prepayment penalties, and other fees which should be considered when weighing the best deal. Make sure you understand which fees are associated with your loan before signing on the dotted line. Additionally, some online lenders will require an automatic payment set up from a bank account each month, so make sure to factor that into your budget.

Laws about Car Loans in California

Rate caps will be imposed on “covered loans,” or car loans with principal amounts of $2,500 or more and less than $10,000. Rates on loans to consumers for non-business purposes with balances below $2,500 were already capped by the CFL prior to the passage of AB 539.

Any covered loan cannot have interest added to it at a rate higher than the sum of the Federal Funds Rate plus 36% per year. Although the definition of “charges” is beyond the scope of this Alert, please be aware that finance lenders may still impose some administrative fees in addition to permitted charges.

To be eligible, covered loans must have a term of at least 12 months. There is a 48-month and 15-day cap on the length of time you can pay back a covered loan of $2,500 or more but less than $3,000. Loans between $3,000 and $10,000 have a maximum term of 60 months and 15 days.

Lenders in California have the right to repossess vehicles for as little as one day past due on loan payments. The lender has the right to remove the collateral from any open space, including your driveway. An agent of the legal owner or a repo company may repossess your car.

Refinancing or reinstating the loan, selling or surrendering the vehicle, or contacting your lender to discuss other options are all ways to prevent repossession.

You may want to consider filing for bankruptcy if you’re having trouble making car loans or other debt payments. To a large extent, debtors can keep their vehicles and other property in Chapter 7 bankruptcies.

How to Find the Best Car Loan in California?

When looking for the best car loan in California, it’s important to do your research and compare rates. Shopping around can significantly affect the amount of interest you’ll be paying on your loan.

Start by getting pre-approved from multiple lenders. This will give you an estimate of what kind of loan terms and interest rates you may qualify for. You should also consider both traditional lenders like banks and online providers specializing in car loans. To get the best deal, make sure to compare the total cost of a loan from each lender, including origination fees, prepayment penalties, and other additional charges.

Another factor to consider when searching for a car loan is the length of time you plan to repay it. Before signing on with any lender, ensure that you understand how long their term limits are and what happens if you go beyond them. It’s best to look for flexible repayment options that allow you to choose when and how much you want to pay each month to stay on track with your financial goals.

Finally, don’t forget that most lenders impose some type of penalty if you default on your payments or fail to meet your obligations under the loan agreement. Make sure to read over all the fine print before making any commitment so you know exactly what is expected of you and what could happen if something goes wrong down the line.

By taking the time to find out more about the best car loan options available in California

How to Qualify for the Best Car Loan in California?

You’ll need good credit to qualify for the best car in California. Most lenders require at least a score of 560, though some may accept lower scores depending on the type of loan you’re applying for. You should also have a stable income and a reasonable debt-to-income ratio.

Additionally, many lenders will require you to provide proof of employment and other financial documents such as bank statements or pay stubs. Be sure to bring all relevant documents with you when applying for a car loan so that the lender can accurately picture your financial situation.

Finally, make sure to shop around and compare different loans before making any commitments. Different lenders offer different terms and interest rates, so spend some time researching each one before settling on an option that best fits your needs.

By learning more about the best car loan options and qualifying criteria, you can be sure to get the best deal on your next car loan in California.

How to Refinance an Auto Loan in California?

Not everyone is offered competitive rates when getting a car loan for the first time. You may be able to save money on your car loan by refinancing. Refinancing entails exchanging an existing loan for a new one of a different term length, interest rate, or both.

Paying less interest on a loan can reduce both your monthly payments and the total amount you spend. However, you’ll need solid credit and a history of on-time payments to reap the benefits of refinancing.

Here are the 7 steps to get an auto loan to refinance loan in CA in 2024:

1. Figure out if refinancing is a good idea.

You should refinance if you can do so at a lower interest rate or if you are having trouble keeping up with your payments.

The first is typical if you obtained your auto loan at a time of high-interest rates or a low credit score. Your loan’s interest rate and payment schedule may be revised upward if your credit score has increased since you first took out the loan.

On the contrary, you can refinance your car loan to a longer-term if you find that your monthly payment is too high. A lower monthly payment can be achieved by extending the repayment term, which usually results in higher interest costs.

2. Review your current loan.

You need to know how much you owe, the interest rate on your loan, and other details before beginning to look for a refinancing option.

3. Review your credit score.

Checking your credit score is essential since it can help you determine which lenders might be willing to refinance your loan. Additionally, it will help you find out what type of interest rate and loan term you might qualify for.

4. Estimate your car’s value.

Your car’s current market value can help you negotiate a better refinancing deal.

5. Shop around for the best rates and terms.

Compare lenders online to find the best rates and loan terms available for your situation. You should also read through the fine print of each loan offer to ensure you understand all the fees and charges associated with your loan.

6. Determine your savings.

Compare the new loan terms to your current loan and figure out how much you are saving by refinancing.

7. Finalize the paperwork.

Once you have selected your best option, sign all of the necessary paperwork and send it back with any required documents. After everything is finalized, you can start making payments on your newly-refinanced loan.

By following these steps, you can secure the best car loans in California in 2024 and save money on your auto loan. Make sure to do your due diligence before making any commitments so that you find the best deal for your financial situation.

How do We Find These Lenders?

To find the best car loans in CA 2024, we scrutinized over 50 lenders, comparing rates, terms, and loan amounts to identify the best providers for each type of borrower. We looked for lenders that offered competitive rates, easy access to customer support, and a track record of customer satisfaction when evaluating them.

Additionally, we sought out lenders with flexible repayment options and those who may be willing to work with people with less-than-perfect credit histories. The best car loans in California are offered by lenders that meet all of these criteria while also providing great value to their customers.

Ultimately, you’ll want to shop around and compare different loans before making any commitments. Different lenders offer different terms and interest rates, so spend some time researching each one before settling on an option that best fits your needs.

We only work with legit lenders and ensure that they follow best practices and offer competitive rates to our customers. Our goal is to ensure you get the best car loans in California in 2024, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need additional help finding a loan. In addition, we also choose lenders that follow CA laws on car loans. With our help, you can get your best car loan in California for the best possible terms and rates.

FAQs

Can I get an auto loan with a low credit score?

Yes. Some lenders are willing to work with people with low credit scores, and you may be able to secure a loan with less-than-perfect credit. However, it’s important to note that you’ll likely have higher interest rates and lower loan amounts than those offered to borrowers with better credit histories.

Can I refinance my existing car loan with bad credit?

Yes. If your current terms aren’t ideal or you feel like you’re paying too much interest, you can qualify for a car loan refinancing option. Make sure to review all of the terms of your new loan before signing any paperwork so that you know exactly what kind of deal you’re getting.

How fees will I get paid if I have bad credit?

If you have bad credit, you may pay a higher interest rate than someone with better credit. However, if you shop around and compare different lenders, you can still find competitive rates for your loan. You should also make sure to read through the fine print of any loan agreement so that you understand all of the fees and charges associated with the loan.

Conclusion

Whether you are looking for a lease buyout, new car purchasing, preowned car purchasing, or refinance of an existing loan, the best car loans in California in 2024 can be the best way to get you the best deal. Making sure that you have done your research and understand all of the terms and conditions of each loan is key to making sure that you are getting the best rate for your new or refinanced loan.

MEET THE AUTHOR

ElitePersonalFinance

Recommended Articles

AS SEEN ON