Contributed by Alix Mcmurray
If you are buying a new or used car through an auto loan, the last thing you probably want to hear is: "If the world gives you lemons, make lemonade! " Now there's no reason to pucker up and take your medicine. You can check out your loan options before even setting foot on the car lot. When you go online to secure an auto loan before purchase, you not only may be able to get a better rate than what the dealership has to offer, but you can do a "lemon check" on that prospective car at the same time!
If you go online, you have a whole array of auto loan options to choose from: car loans, motorcycle loans, person-to-person loans, refinancing and lease buy-outs. Most of these loan websites have handy built-in calculators, where you can plug in the car model and year, loan amount and terms you are considering, and come up with your projected monthly payment. For new cars, you can also browse for incentives and rebates available from the manufacturer. But don't get carried away! As with any product or service on the Internet, use caution and common sense.
You may encounter websites that have an application form on the very first page, some even asking for your Social Security number. Remember,you are shopping for an auto loan, "window shopping" if you like. There is no need for the merchant to know anything about you. Be as discriminating about your auto loan as you are about your car.