Cars and car loans have become equivalent. If you want to buy a
new car, an auto loan has become a complete necessity. With growing need
of auto financing and increasing competition in the car loans market,
lenders are constantly trying to innovate. Past several years have seen
pioneering ideas like no money down auto loans and no co-signer car
loans. This year has been no different in terms of innovation because
lenders have brought highly unconventional "8 Year Loan Terms".
Auto
lenders have become increasingly enthusiastic in offering car loans
with unexpectedly longer terms. Experian Automotive March 2013 report
divulged information about the average loan terms. The average terms
have increased to an all-time high of 65 months. And, now the experts
are predicting that 96 month loan term will become popular.
Why are Loan Terms becoming longer?
The
report also disclosed the rise in new car loan amount. The average new
auto loan amount for Q4 2012 has increased by $272. This shows that car
prices are rising steadily which makes it difficult to buy a new car.
But, if the new car sales dip, it would affect the automobile industry.
So, lenders have started offering longer terms to help Americans fulfill
their new car dream.
Also, there is a growing appetite of
consumers for car loans. The current economic period is better compared
to the recessionary years. Credit borrowers have performed exceptionally
well in making regular payments. This allows the lenders to have faith
in car buyers.
Benefits of Longer Car Loan Terms
Buying your Dream Car
It
is not possible for everyone to buy a new car because of high monthly
payments. But, longer terms ensure affordability. This gives you the
opportunity of buying any car you want.
Lower Payments
If
you opt for shorter term, you have to deal with high payments. But,
longer loan terms allow you to lower your monthly payments. This means
you will experience considerable ease in making payments. An example
will make things clear. If you buy a car for $35,000 at 4% for 4 years,
monthly payments will be $790.27. And, if you extend the term to 8
years, payments will be approximately $426.62.
Regular Payments can improve your Credit Score
A
7-8 year loan term is a big responsibility. If you are able to make
regular payments, your credit score will definitely increase. It will
also show other lenders of your commitment and financial capacity.
Problems with Extended Loan Terms
Pay More towards Interest
Longer
loan terms give you flexibility by offering affordable payments. But,
you have to pay a price for it. Over the entire term, your total
interest amount will be on the higher side. Let's use the same example
of $35,000 car at 4% for 4 years and calculate your total payment
towards interest. It will be $2,932.81. And, if you opt for 8 year loan
term, it will be $5,955.97. This means you will have to pay $3023.16
more.
Higher Chances of Upside Down
A car is a
negative asset because its value decreases over the period of time. The
depreciation rate of a new car is phenomenal which means there are
higher chances of an upside loan. If such a car is stolen or is involved
in an accident, the insurance amount won't cover your loan amount. This
will be detrimental to your financial condition.
Maintaining your Car
If
your car has warranty, your maintenance cost will be low. But, when you
opt for 8 year term, your car will not have any warranty in the last
few years. This is because most new automobiles come with warranty of
3-5 years.So, your maintenance cost will increase in the future.
Every
innovation has its pros and cons. And, its importance is going to be
different for every individual. So, think through and decide whether "8
Year Loan Term" is a stunning opportunity for you.
Best of luck in choosing the best auto loan term!!!
