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Five common car loan mistakes to avoid

01/09/2025

Five common car loan mistakes to avoid

Buying a car is exciting, but rushing into finance can be costly. A car loan is a long-term commitment, so it pays to avoid slip-ups that could add unnecessary stress or expense.

Common mistakes include:

  1. Focusing only on the monthly repayment. A low repayment might look appealing, but if the loan term is too long, you could end up paying far more in interest.
  2. Ignoring fees and charges. Application fees, account-keeping fees and early repayment penalties can add up.
  3. Not shopping around. Dealer finance is rarely the cheapest option. Comparing a range of lenders can save you money.
  4. Borrowing more than you need. Financing extras like insurance or accessories may increase your debt and interest costs.
  5. Skipping pre-approval. Without pre-approval, you risk overcommitting or missing out on negotiating power with the dealer.

By steering clear of these mistakes, you can secure a loan that fits your budget and goals.

Thinking about buying a car? I can help you compare lenders and find a loan that suits your goals and budget.