In general, a credit score that is 740 or higher will get you the best interest rate on an auto loan. If you have great credit, you might be able to score an auto loan as low as zero percent (yes, you read that right). If you have terrible credit (lower than 580), you might be looking at interest rates as high as 20 percent or even close to 30 perc

In direct lending, you get a loan directly from a bank, finance company, or credit union. You agree to pay, over a period of time, the amount financed, plus a finance charge. Once you enter into a contract with a dealership to buy a vehicle, you use the loan from the direct lender to pay for the vehicle.

1. Understand your credit score before you go to the dealership. 2. If your credit isn't perfect, get financing quotes before you go. 3. Keep the term as short as you can afford. 4. Put 20 percent down. 5. Pay for taxes, fees, and extras with cash. 6. Gap insurance. 7. When to refinance a car loan.