Planning Ahead: The Key to Easier Auto Buying

The weather is warming up – and it’s beginning to feel like road trip season! And, according to researchers, 78% of Americans are more likely to use their car to travel in a post-pandemic world.¹ 

If you are ready to upgrade your road trip ride, Sunward can help you prepare before you go vehicle shopping. Here are our tips to make your next auto buying experience go smoothly.

• Use the Quick Apply widget in Sunward online or mobile banking to get pre-approved for your loan. “Knowing what you can afford ahead of time will help keep your purchase within your budget and assist you in making a smart, responsible decision,” advises Sunward Consumer Lending Manager Lisa Bohannon.
• Take some time before you shop to do your research. AutoSmart is a great place to begin looking at vehicle details, and it is both free and available at gosunward.org/AutoSmart. Consumer Reports is another great resource for vehicle safety ratings and fair pricing. Access to the website isn’t free, but the information it provides could potentially save you headaches and money.
• Consider all factors before you buy. “I have had folks come in and purchase a two-seater convertible, then return it later after they got it home and their spouse asked where their children’s car seats would go,” says one auto advisor. “I believe that guy was in a bit of hot water with his wife!” While a practical vehicle may not always be exciting, buying the right vehicle for your needs is always a smart choice. 

Purchasing a vehicle should be fun – not stressful. Make financing your next vehicle the smoothest part of the journey. Get your auto loan with Sunward. You can apply anytime through the Quick Apply widget in online or mobile banking. 

Want to learn more about Sunward’s smart auto loans? Visit gosunward.org/auto-loans. 

1 . EY Global, November 12 2020. https://www.ey.com/en_gl/news/2020/11/millennials-to-lead-covid-induced-car-ownership-boom-ey-survey