Auto Buying Process

Step 1

Decide what you can afford

Analyze your budget to determine how much you can afford to spend each month on an auto loan. Our calculators may be able to help.

Step 2

Get Preapproved

Before you visit the dealership, apply online or give us a call to get preapproved for an auto loan. A preapproval can help you negotiate a better sales price with the dealer.

Not sure if you’ll qualify? Contact a credit union representative to review factors that go into auto loan preapprovals.

Step 3

Do the Research

In addition to deciding if you want a new or used vehicle, research the vehicle models that fit within your budget and don’t forget to include projected maintenance costs.  Doing your homework and knowing the true value of the car can help you get a much better deal during the negotiation process.

We recommend NADAguides.com for a good place to start your research.

Step 4

Start Shopping

You can save money by shopping for your car at the right time. Sometimes car dealers will reduce prices at the end of the model year (usually late summer) and at the end of the month when they need to reduce stock.

Search through thousands of vehicles available at our CUDL dealer partners.

Step 5

Get Insurance Quotes

Since you’ll need to be insured when you hit the road, now is the time to begin looking for car insurance. Rates can vary considerable between providers, so you’ll want to shop around for the best quote.

Step 6

Negotiate the Deal

Since you’ve done your research and know the value of the vehicle, and you have preapproval in hand, you can negotiate the best possible price for the vehicle.

Step 7

Secure Financing

If you haven’t already been pre-approved, now is the time to work with United Trades FCU to finalize the terms of your auto loan.  At the dealership now?  Just let them know you want to finance with United Trades FCU.

Ready to get started?

Apply Now