Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union,
3305 E Elms Road
Killeen, TX 76542
Telephone: 254-690-2274
www.gctfcu.net

Unsecured Vs. Secured Auto Loans

If you are contemplating on getting an auto loan, there are numerous options available for you. You need to thoroughly research and establish the background of the type of auto loan you want to opt for. Auto loans are basically divided into two categories: secured and unsecured. Before you select an option for yourself, it is better to understand the difference between the two.

Secured Auto Loan:

A secured auto loan is the one in which your asset is used as collateral in case you fail to pay back the mortgage amount along with the interest. In an auto loan, the security is generally your car. This means your lender can sell off your car if you do not return the loan amount.

  • Interest rate: In a secured auto loan, the interest rate does not vary over a period of time. The advantage here is that since secured auto loans are mostly given on a fixed rate and your repayment amounts do not get altered.
  • Loan term: A secured auto loan generally has a shorter repayment term. However, since the risk is minimal in this case, so you are likely to get a lower interest rate.
Unsecured Auto Loan:

If you opt for an unsecured auto loan, you will not be required to give any security from your side. The lender approves the loan on the basis of your current financial resources. Every lending organization has its own criteria to conclude if you are fit for an unsecured loan or not.

  • Interest rate: When it comes to an unsecured auto loan, the rate of interest can either be fixed or variable. This is unlike the secured auto loans where there is only a fixed rate of interest. Although the rate of interest is higher, you can choose between fixed and variable depending on your financial condition. While a variable rate of interest will give you more flexibility, you can also opt for the fixed rate of interest if you have complete control over your finances.
  • Loan term: The loan term for an unsecured auto loan can be short as well as long on the basis of individual assessment.
Both types of loans have their own advantages and you must choose what is best suitable for your individual situation.

We, at Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union, offer unsecured and secured auto loans in Central Texas. For more information, feel free to call us at (254) 690 – 2274.
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GCTFCU Blog | Dos And Don’ts For Buying A New Car
Greater Central Texas Federal Credit Union,
3305 E Elms Road
Killeen, TX 76542
Telephone: 254-690-2274
www.gctfcu.net

Dos And Don’ts For Buying A New Car

The thought of buying a new car can be very enticing, especially if it’s your first car. But before buying a car, you must bear certain important factors in mind. You cannot just go ahead and buy a car instantly. The car you ultimately go in for has to fit within your budget and suit your tastes. Read on to know certain dos and don’ts that you must be aware of before buying a car for yourself. At the end of the day, it is your hard-earned money that you are going to invest, so you have to make sure that it is spent in the best way.

  • Firstly, you must research about the various options available in the market. You should have knowledge about the accessories as well, since they can add up to a significant cost in the end. This research will help you get the best possible price for your car.
  • Do not go in for a luxury car if your budget does not allow you to do so. You should try not to get a loan spanning more than four years. Also, you must keep your monthly payment less than 10 percent of your income.
  •  Remember to keep in mind the fuel costs and maintenance charges. Only if you can afford these, you should go in for a particular car that you desire.
  • Get in touch with your insurance agent to get an idea on the interest rates beforehand.
  • Do a thorough research on the auto loan options online and compare financing terms using an auto loan calculator. Take a print out and carry these documents whenever you make a visit to the car dealer.
  • Also make sure to check your credit rating in advance. This will help you deal better later on. 
  • Don’t fall flat for a vehicle while ignoring other options. Look for various models and then only choose the one that fits your bill.
  • You should also know the incentives being offered by the car dealer. Therefore, researching on the Internet beforehand about these things can help you prepare in a better manner before you go out to buy a car.

These are some of the simple dos and don’ts which if kept in mind can definitely help you grab a better car deal that is light on your pocket and good for your taste! Make sure you take care of these things whenever you think of buying a new car and you will definitely be better prepared.

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