Used cars offer a lot of perks for drivers, but one of the biggest is affordability. However, the bottom line can creep higher and higher if you find yourself stuck paying off an auto loan with a high interest rate. To avoid this, most people try to get the lowest rates possible – but figuring out how to accomplish this can be tough. You should keep a few tips in mind as you mull over your loan options. 

Check your credit 
The first thing you should do when considering auto financing is learn your credit score. This is going to impact many aspects of your loan – including the interest rate – so it's in your best interest to know what it says. Looking at the report ahead of time also gives you the chance to scope out any errors. 

If there are any glaring problems or red flags on your credit report, do your best to have proof of improvement on hand when you discuss options with a financing department. You can also conduct some prior research to familiarize yourself with what to expect. 

Take a look at loan length
You probably have a few ideas in mind regarding the type of loan you're looking for. Some people want shorter loans to get the debt over with as soon as possible, while others might want longer terms that allow for lower monthly payments. If your priority is low interest rates, however, you may want to give shorter loans a second look. Cars.com reported that longer loans tend to have higher interest, so choosing the shortest length you're comfortable with may be beneficial. 

Find relief in your budget
A higher interest rate than you were hoping for isn't the end of the world. If you think it'll strain your budget, look around for other areas where you can save. For instance, an auto auction gives you a chance to bid on the used car of your choice, allowing you to save on the sale price of a vehicle and potentially decrease your bottom line. 

Use a trusted company
The company you secure financing from should be one you can trust. At New Jersey State Auto Auction, we know that buying a used car is a big commitment that can get confusing. That's why we have our financing department on site, ready to help you complete the necessary paperwork and get credit approval quickly.