Auto Financing

Auto Financing

Understanding your auto loan options before visiting the dealership puts you in control. Whether you're buying new or used, planning ahead can help you save money, reduce stress, and negotiate with confidence.

Start with a Plan: What Can You Afford?

Use our interactive Best Life Wellness Coach to estimate a monthly payment based on your income and expenses. You'll also learn how down payments, trade-ins, and loan terms affect your total cost.

Launch the Coach Session

Step 1: Prepare to Apply

Check Your Credit
Your credit score plays a major role in determining your loan rate. Review your report for free at AnnualCreditReport.com and correct any errors.

Compare Rates
Loan rates vary by lender. Check offers from credit unions like USSFCU, banks, and trusted online sources. Be cautious when using third-party aggregator sites.

Note: Multiple auto loan inquiries made within a 14–45 day window are usually counted as a single inquiry for credit scoring purposes.

Step 2: Get Pre-Approved

Getting pre-approved gives you a clear rate, term, and budget—so you can shop with confidence and compare dealership offers without pressure.

Benefits of Pre-Approval:

  • Know your rate and max loan amount upfront
  • Strengthen your position when negotiating
  • Focus on getting the best deal, not just the best loan

Apply online, by phone, or in person with USSFCU

Plan for Your Down Payment or Trade-In

  • A down payment reduces your loan amount and total interest paid
  • Use trusted tools like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds to research your trade-in value
  • Trade-ins can be used toward your down payment or loan balance

If you owe more than your trade-in is worth, carefully consider how rolling the balance into a new loan affects your total repayment.

Estimate Your Monthly Payment

Use our Auto Loan Calculator to estimate your monthly payment based on loan amount, rate, and term. Run different scenarios to find the best fit.

Try the Auto Loan Calculator

What a Car Loan Really Costs

Monthly payments don’t tell the full story. Learn how interest, term length, and other factors impact your total cost—not just what you’ll pay each month.

Explore the Loan Cost Breakdown

Loan Term Comparison

Shorter loan terms cost more per month but save you money in interest. Longer terms lower your monthly payment, but increase total loan cost. Choose what works best for your budget and goals.

Need Help Making the Right Move?

Questions about your pre-approval, loan terms, or which route is best for you?
We’re here to help 24/7. Call us at 800.374.2758 or learn more at ussfcu.org/auto.

The content on this page provides general consumer information. It is not legal advice or regulatory guidance. We do not endorse or guarantee the accuracy of third-party information.

Members' Voice Testimonials

This credit union is the best, I love the customer service and you can't beat the interest rates. I'm happy to be a member of this great credit union.

- James · Locust Grove, GA

The branch manager introduced herself and was extremely helpful. She stated that if there is anything we ever need to please let her know. Very positive experience!

- Larry · Cumberland, MD

Greta was absolutely amazing - as always. She makes me and my parents feel valued and supported. We are forever grateful. [The Credit Union] has been hugely supportive over many years. And we feel known and cared for.

- Eliza · Washington, DC

Long as I have been with the credit union, I haven't had any problems. I also like the protection on my account.

- Charles · Upper Marlboro, MD

My overall experience at the credit union was exceptional. The staff was hospitable offering water, my service was timely and professional and the office was well lit and clean.

- Denise · Washington, DC

As a member for more than 40 years, i have always had great service from the USSFCU and know that they stand behind their great reputation.

- David · Silver Spring, MD

A top rate Credit Union, [I'm] privileged to be part of! Thank you for all you do for our family! USSFCU Credit Union was able to resolve our financial situation - vehicle, personal loans, customer service/recommendations, within 6 months. We belonged to another credit union for over 20 years, with results not even close to comparison. We switched ...

- Manuel · Bowie, MD

Your people and products are amazing. The recent [online banking] overhaul is phenomenal. [I've] been electronic banking since Tele action phone banking - paying bills with my push button landline decades ago. USSFCU is light years ahead of everyone else in terms of ease of use and client experience!

- Misty · Brookings, OR

I have been a member for more than 30 years. I no longer reside in the DC area but continue to bank with USSFCU because of the ease and the customer service.

- Tamra · Denver, CO

I have been a member for over 50 years, and I have always gotten good service with loans, when I had to have service at a branch, and when I needed to have money sent to me from my savings account. The personnel have always been friendly and treated me with respect.

- John · Fort Washington, MD

I especially appreciate being able to quickly speak with someone (not a robot) and that person has always been knowledgeable and helpful.

- Bernard · Richmond, VA

Excellent customer service streamlined and transparent process. The representatives are efficient, knowledgeable, and understanding of the type of loans offered by Credit Union.

- Erwin · Ellicott City, MD

The USSFCU behaves as a credit union ought to behave. The staff works with and for the members, not for a corporate board. Interest rates for a car loan, a home improvement loan, and a mortgage are low and terms are transparent.

- Ruth · Takoma Park, MD

Staff are courteous and friendly to work with. Very knowledgeable about services and products offered or available. Excellent follow-up with customers.

- Jacquelyn · Sanford, FL

I have appreciated USSFCU services for many years since I left my work on Capitol Hill. I have appreciated the occasional webinars on purchasing a home or retirement planning.

- Jamie · Washington, DC

I have been a member since 2006, and have always appreciated the customer service response to any concern or query. In addition, as I have traveled extensively, USSFCU has provided support and access.

- Kathleen · Ukiah, CA

I've had a credit union account for decades, even though I no longer work on Capitol Hill. I now have two accounts. I've been able to do all of our banking remotely, by app or by phone.

- Richard · Washington, DC

I have been a USSFCU member for almost 20 years. There is nowhere else I want my money to be. I always receive excellent service.

- Nicole · Alexandria, VA

I deeply appreciate the stellar service, the proficiency, the professionalism, and the kindness. I am truly honored and grateful to bank with a financial institution that treats customers like family.

- Angela · Alexandria, VA

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