| Okay, first things first. We're going to do a lot of talking about "direct financing" and "direct loans" and when we do what we have in mind is any kind of financing set up by you, without the help of the car dealer.
And we think that direct auto financing is a smart route for almost any buyer in the market for any product. But for new car financing it can be especially crucial.
That's because the potential savings are considerable and the potential risks pretty much non-existent.
The number one strategy you already know: shop for independent new car financing before you haggle price at the dealer's (and even if you don't haggle!)
Secondly strategy: give yourself a little "wiggle room" when it comes to price. If you don't already have a figure set in stone (and an itemized list of additional expenses), apply for a auto loan limit at least a little over what you expect to pay. It means extra flexibility for you at closing time, and you're under no obligation to use your entire loan limit.
Last strategy: If you're comfortable with it, opt to make your payments automatically. Securing your auto loan online usually means rate savings already. But online auto lenders will usually offer even lower rates if you pay electronically.
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