Category Archives: Auto Loans & Financing News

What You Need To Get A Car Loan

Acquiring a car loan is within the realm of possibility for many drivers, but they have to be equipped with the right materials before they can apply for and receive financing help. Here are a few of the most important materials you will need as you start the process of getting an auto loan: 

Credit score
Drivers should know their credit rating before starting the process of applying for a car loan. Lenders will look at this score immediately, and having a clear picture of what your credit history is and how it affects the loans you receive will make the process go a bit more smoothly. Additionally, those drivers who find their score is less than ideal can take some time to improve the number before applying for a loan, thus improving their chances of getting the financing help they need. 

Miscellaneous 
In addition to knowing their credit score and having proof of insurance, drivers ready to apply for a loan need to arm themselves with a few other pieces of information. For example, prospective buyers need to have proof of identity and residence, which can be supplied in the form of a standard, government-issued photo identification and a utility bill with your name and address on it. Proof of income is also important and can generally be satisfied by pay stubs or bank statements. You should make sure you have all of this information before heading to a bank or dealership to begin the financing process. 

Once you have all of the materials you need, you can head to New Jersey State Auto Auction and begin searching for a used car that fits your style and budget. The auction lot has a variety of CARFAX-certified cars, vans and trucks in price ranges that suit almost any buyer. 

Auto Loan Rates Vary Widely By State

The majority of drivers need the help of an auto loan to complete the purchase of a used car. Despite the fact that this financing option is relatively common, there are many variables that  influence the bottom line and cause uncertainty among motorists. One element to be considered is geography, as the state of residence and purchase can play a role in auto loans, along with various personal factors. 

Rates vary by state
According to a study from GoBankingRates.com, geography plays a major role in the auto loan rates you can expect to receive. In fact, the average interest rates differed greatly by state. Michigan boasted the lowest, with an average of 3.03 percent, while Rhode Island had the highest at 5.11 percent. Other states on the lower end of the spectrum included Pennsylvania and New York, which had rates of 3.84 and 3.51 percent, respectively.

New Jersey was a bit on the costly end of the spectrum, with an average interest rate of 4.47 percent – a fact that makes understanding all options even more vital. 

What you can do
No matter where you are located, there are steps you can take to get your auto loan interest rates as low as possible. Shop around for an auto loan before you check out used cars for sale. That way, you'll have a budget in mind as you research and test drive vehicles. 

If you're searching for an auction lot where you can find quality vehicles at affordable prices, look no further than NJ State Auto Auction. There you can browse through a wide array of CARFAX-certified automobiles, many of which are options that won't break your budget or can be purchased with the help of a car loan. 

Expanding Car Loans Make Purchasing A Vehicle Easier Than Ever

Buying a used car is an expensive endeavor, so there is no shame in needing auto refinancing or a car loan to purchase a vehicle. In fact, more and more drivers are turning to loans to complete an investment, which is having a widespread effect on the auto industry. 

According to a recent study from the informational group Experian Automotive, more than 84 percent of car purchases made in the second quarter of 2013 involved a car loan. That represents a record high and a significant increase from the same time in 2012. 

While more prospective motorists are taking out loans to make a car purchase possible, they are also paying the debts back at a higher rate. The study found that the rate of loans ending in repossession dropped to 0.36 percent, which is a record low. As the number of delinquencies fall, banks are in a better position to offer more loans to subprime borrowers – a fact that should be welcome news for many consumers. 

"Loans have become more accessible in recent years, and we've seen a steady growth in the percentage of consumers financing their vehicles," said Melinda Zabritski, a senior director of automotive credit at Experian Automotive. "Obviously, this is good news for the auto industry, but it's also good news for consumers, because this, combined with the reduction we have seen in delinquencies, shows that they are feeling more confident in their ability to take on more debt and pay it off in a timely manner." 

If you're looking for a used car that won't break the bank, check out the selection at New Jersey State Auto Auction. The lot is filled with CARFAX-certified cars, trucks and vans, all of which can provide a solid choice for the value-conscious consumer. 

Higher Auto Insurance Costs Cause Decline In Customer Satisfaction

Drivers are always on the lookout for ways to save money when it comes to their cars. Whether it's taking a vehicle in for a tune up at a local garage like the Total Car Care Center at NJ State Auto Auction or shopping around for low insurance rates, these motorists know saving money is the key to a happy relationship with an automobile. 

A recent study from J.D. Power and Associates found that customer satisfaction with auto insurance companies decreased from 2012 to 2013. Although it reached an all-time high last year, growing rates have caused some drivers to voice their displeasure. The end result was a 10 percent drop in customer satisfaction – however, it is still at the second-highest level it has reached since 2000. 

"In 2013, there is a sharp rise in the number of customers who have experienced premium increases," said Jeremy Bowler, senior director of the global insurance practice at J.D. Power and Associates. "The dollar amount of those increases is also larger, averaging $153 in 2013, compared with an average rate increase of $113 reported in the 2012 study."

While many customers saw their insurance rates go up, only 16 percent spoke to their provider about the increase. Many others opted to change insurers as rates soared, with the majority of the drivers unhappy with how their insurance provider went about implementing the change. 

The study found the  Mid-Atlantic region voted State Farm as the top insurance provider with regard to customer satisfaction. Erie Insurance, GEICO and The Hartford were also well received across the area. 

The lot at New Jersey State Auto Auction is filled with CARFAX-certified cars, trucks and vans, all at an affordable price. These reliable vehicles can help drive down average vehicle maintenance costs, saving drivers money in the long run. 

CarFinance Reveals Top 10 Most Refinanced Vehicles

Below-prime car buyers are usually tuned into the financial aspect of purchasing a used automobile. They frequently search for the best interest rates and manageable monthly payments, but some motorists who invested in cars over the past few years are now attempting to refinance their auto loans and payments. 

Refinancing offers drivers a chance to lower interest rates, which is why more than 14 percent of existing auto contracts could be redone in 2014. That would mark a 12 percent increase from 2012. 

According to a new study from CarFinance, the Nissan Altima, Ram 1500 and Honda Accord were the three most frequently refinanced vehicles in 2012.  Other models on the list include the Toyota Camry, Dodge Charger, Ford F-150 and Toyota Corolla. While these are among the most popular automobiles on the market, they are also some of the most reliable and fuel efficient – meaning drivers are investing in cars that are built to last. 

"As this list indicates, these are generally sensible consumers owning practical vehicles and making prudent choices to help them weather and survive an economy that has challenged so many," said Jim Landy, CEO of CarFinance. "This is not a list dominated by luxury vehicles – quite the opposite – and, with longer ownership cycles and the quality of even the most economical of vehicles higher than ever before, making that investment work for the long term can make a lot of sense in the current economic climate." 

Drivers who are ready to invest in their next vehicle can head to NJ State Auto Auction as they search for the right ride. The lot is filled with CARFAX-certified cars, trucks and vans, all at affordable prices, making it manageable for any motorists to invest in a new automobile. 

More Deals To Be Found For Used Cars

Want to find a great deal on a used car? Most people who are looking for a pre-owned vehicle do, but not everyone knows about the best strategies to use when trying to pinpoint the best possible price. Luckily, the current market is primed to provide drivers with great buys. 

According to CBS News, motorists can now take advantage of good values for used cars. With the sales of new cars growing, more and more people are being drawn to the falling price of pre-owned vehicles. Even a one-year-old car being sold as used is retailing for only about 81.5 percent of its new car price, which translates to a savings of more than $100 per month for many, the news source reports. 

There are still certain segments that offer better value than others. WSPA News reports that crossovers and minivans are among the most affordable used cars available – especially when compared to popular sedans that are always in demand. Similarly, automobiles like the BMW 7Series or Volkswagen Jetta are an intriguing option for drivers who want higher-end vehicles at a more affordable price. 

"High-end luxury cars present the most affordable buying opportunity used," Alec Gutierrez, an analyst with Kelley Blue Book, told CBS News. 

It's also important to check out other money saving options like car rebates and inter loans before deciding on a car, as these factors could affect the bottom line. 

If you're in the market for a used car, you can check out the selection at places like NJ State Auto Auction. The lot is packed with CARFAX-certified cars, trucks and vans, any one of which could be your next vehicle. No matter what type of automobile you're looking for, there's a good chance you'll be able to find a top-of-the-line deal at this New Jersey establishment. 

Consumer Credit Levels Improve In April

There's good news for people who need a little financial help to help them purchase a used car. The first few months of 2013 have seen some of the strongest credit health since the recession, giving more individuals access to automobiles than the same time last year. 

In fact, one auto leasing website had more than 77 percent of its customers achieve credit approvals in April, which is up from 70 percent in March. The total approval rating for the first four months of 2013 sits at 73.6 percent – significantly higher than the 57.5 percent rating during the same time period in 2012 and the 68.3 percent approval in 2011. Although this is just one site's data, it does reflect an improvement in the overall market. 

"The automotive industry has continued to grow in 2013, with new sales expected to be marginally higher than 2012 levels," said Scot Hall, executive vice president of a car leasing marketplace. "Above this, key economic factors such as continued job growth, low gas prices and a healing housing market have all helped personal credit levels, allowing more consumers with credit approvals." 

Getting a credit approval is just the first step toward investing in a vehicle, but it's one of the most important processes to complete. Having your finances in order can get you closer to driving the car of your dreams – as long as you continue to shop smart. 

If you're in the market for an affordable used car, you may want to check out the selection of CARFAX certified vehicles at NJ State Auto Auction. With cars, trucks and vans available on site, drivers will be able to choose the perfect automobile for their needs without breaking the bank. 

New Jersey Could Implement An Electric Car Tax

States have collected money to maintain roads from gas taxes for quite some time. As more drivers turn to fuel efficient options like hybrid or electric cars, however, the revenue coming in from these fees is dropping. To help prevent funds from running dry, New Jersey is looking into the possibility of taxing electric vehicle owners on the miles they drive. 

James Whelan, a state senator from Atlantic City, N.J., is sponsoring the bill. If enacted, owners of electric vehicles would be charged 0.00839 cents per mile driven, AutoBlog reports. The average electric car notches about 12,000 miles a year, which would bring the annual tax to around $100. However, gas-powered cars currently face a state tax of 14.5 cents per gallon, and if those automobiles also drive 12,000, the cost for taxes is only around $69. 

While this may irk electric vehicle owners, the proposition is more affordable than similar taxes in other states, many of which are considering flat fees and mileage taxes. Of course, it also means drivers would have more paperwork to deal with, as they would have to track and report mileage of their cars, face audits and even pay fines if calculations turn out to be incorrect. 

"Currently in New Jersey, alternate-fueled and electric vehicles don't pay a gas tax," Whelan told USA Today. "For 98 percent of the drivers with gas-powered cars, they pay a 14.5 cent-per-gallon tax to support the upkeep of roads. The guy driving an electric car doesn't pay anything." 

If you're searching for any type of vehicle with great fuel economy, you'll want to make your way to New Jersey State Auto Auction. With a wide selection of CARFAX certified cars, trucks and vans, drivers can easily find the right automobile at the right price. 

Below-Prime Buyers Provide Insight To The Auto Industry

Being on a budget can drastically affect how you go about shopping for something you need. That's certainly the case when looking for a new car purchase, as most prospective drivers need to search for a vehicle that combines safety, technology and performance in one affordable package – especially if they are a below-prime buyer who needs a car loan to complete the transaction. 

According to a report from CarFinance.com, below-prime buyers account for 43 percent of all auto loans and are constantly searching for great value and longevity in their vehicles. As a result, the most popular models in this segment may reflect the extensive warranties, special features and attractive price range many people are looking for. 

"While compact sedans rule the CarFinance.com new vehicle list, when it comes to used, pickups and midsize/large sedans dominate, with no compacts making the top 10," said Jim Landy, president and CEO of CarFinance.com. "This is a consumer looking for multi-use trucks and larger, fit-the-whole-family vehicles, but seeking those relatively high-cost vehicles at a significantly lower used price point." 

The most popular used car for below-prime buyers was the Ram 1500 truck. That was followed by the Nissan Altima, Ford F150 and Dodge Charger, while several Chevrolet models – the Silverado 1500, Impala, and Malibu – the Toyota Camry, Chrysler 300 and Ford Mustang rounded out the top 10. 

Prospective car owners don't have to be classified as below-prime to be on the hunt for a great deal. Almost all drivers are trying to get the most bang for their buck while shopping around for a new ride, and taking cues from below-prime buyers may help them find some hidden gems. Of course, savvy drivers can always head to NJ State Auto Auction to check out the selection of CARFAX certified cars, trucks and vans. If you're looking for a great deal on a used car, the selection at New Jersey Auto Auction could have just what you need. 

Fewer Young Adults Own Cars After Recession

While the recent recession has ended and the U.S. economy is slowly recovering, the aftereffects of the economic dip are still making waves, and the most recent report reveals car ownership is down among those 35 and younger. The Pew Research Center analyzed Federal Reserve Board and other government data that spanned 2007 through 2010 and then compared it to the numbers from 2011.

The researchers found that the amount of debt among those under 35 fell 29 percent between 2007 and 2010, while those over 35 only saw a decline of 8 percent. This is believed to be due in part to the fact that those in the younger group are less likely to own homes and cars, which means they are not paying off auto loans or mortgages. In 2007, 73 percent of those younger than 25 owned or leased cars, but this fell to 66 percent by 2011. 

As the economy continues to recover, the lending environment is more welcoming to those looking to purchase cars. The federal interest rate remains low, which means banks and other lenders are willing to be more lenient with those who don't have perfect credit. Car shoppers in the New York/New Jersey area who are in the market for used vehicles can ask about their financing options at NJ Auto Auction. The dealer accepts all credit backgrounds and partners with a number of major lenders to help customers get approved for financing. 

Once a driver secures his or her financing, it is time to pick out the perfect ride. NJ Auto has a wide selection of makes and models for shoppers to choose from, whether they're looking for SUVs with lots of cargo space like the Chevy Tahoe or they would prefer smaller, more fuel-efficient models such as the Honda Accord.