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Car Loan Refinancing: A Guide for Students

Car Loan Refinancing Explained

From ABC Loan Guide, for About.com

When you're a student, you’re constantly looking for different ways to save a buck or two. If you have a car loan, one of the easiest ways to save money is through car loan refinancing.

Why Car Loan Refinancing?

When most people think of refinancing, they think of mortgages. This might be because car loan refinancing is one of the best kept secrets in the lending industry. Your current lender, who gave you that less than desirable interest rate to begin with, surely isn’t going to tell you how refinancing can save you thousands of dollars over the life of your loan. After all, the more interest you pay, the more the lender benefits. But, the fact is, car loan refinancing is available and it does work.

By refinancing, you can get a lower interest rate, and in turn, lower your monthly payment. Even if the rate differs by only one or two points, you can still save hundreds of dollars. If you had bad credit when you got the loan, but have since improved your credit score, that 18 percent rate could be dropped to 6 or 7 percent. Depending on the size of your loan, that could save you as much as $100 every month.

Tips for Using Car Loan Refinancing

Car loan refinancing can save you a lot of money—when it’s done right. You will need to find the right lender and the right loan terms if you want your refinance to really pay off. Here are some car loan refinancing tips that may help:
  • Find a reputable lender
  • Get free rate quotes online
  • Compare several car loan refinancing quotes to get the best deal
  • Get the lowest interest rate possible
  • Look over the loan terms carefully
  • If you have questions—ask
  • Do not sign any documents you do not understand
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