Dealer financing vs bank loans
Dealers often offer 0% APR deals on new cars — but these offers are usually for buyers with excellent credit (720+ score) and may inflate the car price. Always get a pre-approval from your bank before going to the dealership — it gives you negotiating power.
Gap insurance
If you finance a new car, consider GAP insurance. Cars depreciate fast — in the first year, a car can lose 20–30% of its value. If your car is totalled, regular insurance pays current market value, which may be less than what you owe. GAP insurance covers the difference.