The Latest Car Loan News

Auto loan originations see dramatic increase over 2010

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 16:06:13 GMT

With the current economy, many people find themselves unable to afford new vehicles on their own, which is why a number of individuals are turning to car loans. A new report is showing that more people may be looking to get back to spending despite the economic ...

Kelley Blue Book offers tips for first-time car buyers

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 11:41:37 GMT

Buying a car for the first time can be intimidating and scary for many people, but there are plenty of resources available to help shoppers know what to expect and be prepared. Kelley Blue Book, one of the leading automotive information sources for consumers, recently published a list of helpful tip...

The 2011 Motorist Choice Awards approaches cars from a consumer angle

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 11:40:17 GMT

There are plenty of lists of best vehicles for all sorts of qualifications, but rarely do they venture outside of certain classes. However, one list does things a bit differently. Intellichoice and AutoPacific recently announced their 2011 Motorist Choice Awards, which are grouped by unique categori...

Take caution when shopping online for cars

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 15:53:27 GMT

Online shopping isn't just for small purchases anymore. Many people buy and sell cars online, whether buying new cars from dealerships or used cars from private sellers on sites like eBay and Craigslist. This can be a great way to get a good deal on the car you want, if you do your research and ...

California takes a stand against used car "lemons"

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 15:50:59 GMT

A new bill to protect consumers from unwittingly purchasing cars with major problems was just signed into law in California. The bill, which was introduced by Democratic State Assemblyman Bob Blumenfield, requires both new and used car dealers to check every used vehicle with a federal database to d...

Pink Ribbon edition of Fiat 500 supports breast cancer awareness month

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 15:50:18 GMT

FIAT North America recently announced that it will be releasing a limited edition Pink Ribbon 500 just in time for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The Italian automaker worked together with the Breast Cancer Research Foundation to design the special car, of which only 250 will be produced. The specia...

Edmunds.com helps consumers navigate buying new cars

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 15:54:51 GMT

Whether shopping for your first or fifth vehicle, the car-buying process can be complicated and confusing, especially if you want to buy new. This is why Edmunds.com. a leading online automotive information center, recently released a new, comprehensive guide for consumers who want to purchase new. ...

OnStar realizes policy change mistakes and apologizes

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 15:53:03 GMT

A few days ago, OnStar announced changes in the company's policy, and two of the changes caused quite a stir among consumers. The General Motors-supported safety and connectivity system tried to initiate policy changes that would do little more than invade the privacy of GM vehicle owners.
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New vehicle sales are up, used sales drop

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 15:51:10 GMT

Used vehicle sales skyrocketed during the recession, but TrueCar.com's analysis of September sales shows that new vehicles are making a comeback. New light vehicle sales for September 2011 are up 10.1 percent from the same month in 2010, and retail sales are up 10.7 percent over last year. The g...

The 2012 Kia Rio is making big waves with a small price tag

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 16:11:19 GMT

Kia announced on Monday that the price of the all-new Rio will start under $14,000. This is great news for car buyers who are shopping on a budget, or with an auto loan. The 2012 Kia Rio, which was unveiled at this year's New York Auto Show, can help drivers save money after they buy as well. Th...

Year-end car sales provide best driver savings

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 17:07:12 GMT

This holiday season, many drivers are likely to buy themselves a present as December is quite possibly the best month to find a great deal on a new car. Beginning in late summer and early fall, many dealerships offer incentives and discounts for the current model year so they can clear out their inv...

Edmunds.com app update now provides more info for used cars

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 15:34:26 GMT

Trying to decide which car is the right choice can be difficult, especially when searching for a used car. Edmunds.com recently released an update for its Android smartphone app, which improves the user's ability to research information on both new and used vehicles.

The app gives users...

Loose bolts prompt small BMW 3 Series recall

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 15:33:17 GMT

BMW will be recalling a small number of its 3 Series vehicles for an issue with the front drive shaft bolts. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that the bolts in approximately 190 328i and 335i sport sedans from the 2011 model year may not have been tightened properly and may...

Operation Twist drives low long-term interest rates even lower

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 15:35:57 GMT

The Federal Reserve is taking cues from Chubby Checker with its new Operation Twist initiative. The plan is to try to drive down long-term interest rates by selling short-term bonds and buying up long-term ones, which the Fed hopes will stimulate the economy, according to Forbes. Many oppose this mo...

NADAGuide recommends best current cars

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 15:34:03 GMT

When it comes time to buy a car, it's easy to get overwhelmed by all of the car commercials that are aimed at winning over buyers, but it is important to keep your budget in mind when choosing your next vehicle. You should also research cars before going to a dealership to get a good idea of opt...

Allstate survey finds that parents are less willing to buy cars for their kids

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 15:31:52 GMT

The weakening economy and low incomes are having a major impact on how much parents are willing and able to save and spend on their teen's cars and related expenses. Allstate recently conducted a survey, which found that nearly 75 percent of families with an annual income of less than $30,000 ar...

How does marital status affect credit?

Wed, 21 Sep 2011 15:30:25 GMT

What happens when a married couple applies for a car loan and one spouse has decent credit, while the other's score is less-than-desirable? Well, if an individual applies for a loan, their spouse's credit should have no effect on the application process....

German researchers reveal their self-driving car project

Wed, 21 Sep 2011 15:29:25 GMT

Google is not the only one working on driverless cars, even though their research is making the most headlines. Last week, German researchers gave reporters a demonstration of their secretive, self-driving vehicle in Berlin. Much like Google's approach, the German team is using a 360-degree roof...

Your car can influence your reputation at the office

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 15:08:38 GMT

For many people, the car they drive serves as a status symbol, especially in the world of business. A boss who shows up to work in a beat-up old clunker will not likely command the same level of respect from their employees as one who rolls into work in a sleek, classy ride. People who either want t...

Tips for getting the most out of test drives

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 16:10:48 GMT

One of the most important steps in choosing a car to buy is the test drive. No matter how much money you will be spending, if you are paying with a bad credit car loan, if you are buying a compact car or a Ferrari, you should know what to...

NHTSA announces recalls for Kia, Hyundai and Subaru

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 14:49:49 GMT

More car companies have placed recalls on their consumer vehicles this week. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced that Hyundai, Subaru and Kia will be recalling nearly 286,500 vehicles for manufacturing defects that could lead to increased risks of accidents and injuries.

Getting loans before the car can secure lower interest rates and save money

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 14:49:18 GMT

When it comes time to buy a car, many drivers don't consider car financing before they visit a dealership, but this can be a mistake. You should research other financing options, as dealers may not offer the best interest rates. Advertised ra...

Drivers are paying less than they thought during incentive season

Thu, 15 Sep 2011 16:17:09 GMT

The fall season brings cold weather, football and car sales. Dealerships tend to offer lots of incentives during this season in order to clear out their inventories for the next crop of new vehicles. Even in light of all of the deals being offered to car buyers, drivers are still willing to spend mo...

Some new cars no longer come with spare tires

Thu, 15 Sep 2011 16:15:55 GMT

Spare tires are rapidly being replaced with tire repair kits in new cars, but drivers may not take that into consideration when shopping for vehicles. In place of spares, automakers are choosing to include liquid tire sealant and an electric air pump that weight 20 pounds less than a spare, which he...

Loans can help rebuild credit, but take caution

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 16:45:43 GMT

It's an unfortunate truth that no credit is bad credit, but too much debt can have an even more detrimental effect on your credit score. The trick is finding the proper balance of debt without over-burdening your finances. If you have already mucked up your credit scores, as many people are wont...

Volkswagen recalls more than 30,000 Jettas

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 16:05:14 GMT

Volkswagen recently announced a recall for approximately 30,300 Jetta sedans for an issue with the exhaust system. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that certain units manufactured between March 2010 and August 2011 (2011 and 2012 model years) had stainless steel exhaust tip...

Edmunds.com provides technology guides for auto shoppers

Tue, 13 Sep 2011 16:01:19 GMT

It seems like every day there is new technology cropping up across the board, and one of the areas that has seen a world of change and innovation recently is the automotive industry. On-board navigation centers, brake assist systems and other safety and entertainment technologies are beginning to be...

Safety features to look for in a family car

Tue, 13 Sep 2011 16:00:35 GMT

Having a TV in the family car can be great for road trips, but when parents are shopping for a new vehicle, entertainment takes a back seat to safety. It seems like every day car companies are introducing new safety technology, and some of these features are standard while others are optional. Drive...

What to consider when buying a car

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 15:59:58 GMT

Buying a car is not just about finding the right vehicle to suit your budget - it's also important to love the car you wind up buying. This can be especially true if you are planning to use a car loan, because those monthly loan payments will just be a recur...

Honda announces more recalls

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 15:59:13 GMT

Shortly after recalling about 100,000 CR-V and CR-Z vehicles, Honda recently announced that more than 310,000 Pilot SUVs will also need to receive some mechanical attention. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that there may be defects in the front seat safety belts in models ...

Best cars under $5,000

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 09:16:53 GMT

Just because you're shopping for a car on a budget, doesn't mean you have to wind up behind the wheel of some old beater that barely runs. There are plenty of affordable options for motorists who want decent cars for their money, and Jalopnik recently asked its readers to recommend their top...

New 2012 Toyota Tacoma priced under $18k

Fri, 09 Sep 2011 09:10:40 GMT

Drivers who are looking to buy a new truck with an auto loan should consider the 2012 Toyota Tacoma. The pickup will start at $17,685, which is about $500 more than last year's model, according to Autoweek. The Japanese automaker has redesigned the grille, front and rear fascias, headlights and ...

Don't forget about insurance and repair costs when buying a car

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 17:05:45 GMT

Finding the least expensive car may not be the best way to shop for a vehicle, especially when you factor in car insurance. If you are buying a car with an auto loan, you should consider how much the insurance will cost you. If the vehicle you want has a low price tag, but is expensive to insure, it...

Considerations when buying hybrids

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 17:04:54 GMT

Drivers who are thinking about buying an electric or hybrid car have more to consider than they may be aware of. Hybrid vehicles tend to be more expensive than their gasoline-engine counterparts, but the money drivers save at the pump could eventually make up the initial cost. If a consumer wants to...

BMW recalls 241,000 more vehicles

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 15:42:21 GMT

BMW is recalling 241,000 3 Series sedans from the 2002 through 2005 model years to fix a potential issue with the rear lights. Over time, the taillights, brake lights or turn signals could stop working due to resistance in electrical contacts in the 325I, 325XI and 330XI models, The Detroit News rep...

Honda issues recalls for CR-V, CR-Z and Fit

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 15:41:17 GMT

When the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration receives enough complaints about an issue with a vehicle, they will open an investigation. If the organization finds a problem, the automaker will issue a recall on the product to make any necessary repairs.

Honda had to recall nearly ...

New survey shows that drivers are adapting to safety technology

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 16:25:14 GMT

Automakers are beginning to include more technology in their new vehicles as standard. From GPS systems to rear-view cameras and electronic stability control, advances in safety equipment are making driving safer, and the recent MetLife Auto and Home American Safety Pulse Poll reveals that drivers a...

Vehix recommends best used cars for teen drivers

Fri, 02 Sep 2011 14:49:05 GMT

When kids pass their driving test and are legally able to take to the roads on their own, parents will want to make sure that they are safe. The cars that kids drive play a big role in their safety behind the wheel, and Vehix recently released its top eight choices for suitable cars for teenage driv...

Domestic automakers fare well in August sales, Japanese struggle

Fri, 02 Sep 2011 14:48:29 GMT

Overall, new car sales in the U.S. for the month of August saw a 7.5 percent improvement over the same month in 2010. Japanese automakers, such as Toyota and Honda, experienced declines compared to last year's numbers, but domestic companies improved substantially, according to The Detroit News....

Diesel-engine 2009 BMW X5 recalled for faulty fuel filter heater

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 16:09:21 GMT

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recently announced that BMW is recalling about 2,000 X5s from the 2009 model year that are equipped with diesel engines. The organization claims that the fuel filter heater, which warms diesel fuel during low outside temperatures, in the affected mo...

Weak improvement in August car sales possibly due to Hurricane Irene

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 15:48:40 GMT

August car sales showed improvement over last year's numbers, especially in the domestic sector. General Motors reported that their sales were 18 percent higher last month than they were in August 2010, and Volkswagen of America said August sales of its brand in the U.S. rose 10.4 percent over l...

Forbes reveals its picks for the best used cars

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 14:35:37 GMT

The latest issue of Forbes features a list of the publication's picks for best used cars, which can be a great resource for drivers who are shopping for a vehicle with a used car loan. New cars often lose about half of their value after the first three years...

Gender makes a difference when it comes time to buy a car

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 14:34:10 GMT

Men and women tend to look for different options when they are buying cars. Forbes recently analyzed new car registration data from September 2009 to January 2010 to determine which cars were being purchased by either gender. They found that women were more likely to purchase smaller, practical vehi...

NTHSA finds no need for Ford or GM recalls

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 14:32:47 GMT

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recently announced that its investigations of more than 500,000 Ford and General Motors vehicles will not require a recall. The Detroit News reports that the NTHSA was looking into the Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey for a potential link between ...

Small cars grow in popularity

Mon, 29 Aug 2011 15:46:15 GMT

Quicks, one of the leading car retailers in the UK, recently examined car purchase data to determine the difference between men and women when it comes to buying cars. What they found is that, regardless of gender, people are opting for affordable cars that have good fuel economy. Ford made the top ...

More electric options to come to American dealerships

Mon, 29 Aug 2011 15:39:07 GMT

The Nissan Leaf was once the only all-electric vehicle on the U.S. Market, but the 2012 model year is bringing a slew of other options. Drivers who are shopping on a budget or with a car loan but still want to buy electric have other options to save money. The U...

TrueCar.com: New and used vehicle sales are up 8 percent over last year

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 15:48:55 GMT

TrueCar.com recently released its forecast for August car sales in the U.S., and overall sales are increasing. New vehicle sales are estimated to be 8 percent higher than they were in August 2010. Jesse Toprak, the vice president of industry trends and insights for TrueCar.com, said that the improve...

Fiat 500 is affordable and economical for city driving

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 16:05:10 GMT

Drivers who are in the market for a new car, but are shopping on a budget, can consider the Fiat 500. The Italian subcompact car is affordable with a starting price around $15,500, which is nearly $5,000 less than the comparable Mini Cooper, U.S. News reports. The average price actually paid for the...

More drivers are making loan payments on time

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 16:09:31 GMT

The national rate of auto loan delinquency dropped again in the second quarter of 2011. This marks the seventh consecutive quarter that posted good results as reported by TransUnion, one of the three major credit bureaus. The decline in delinquencies - being 60 days or more past due on a loan paymen...

Best family cars from the 2011 model year

Tue, 23 Aug 2011 15:45:08 GMT

Families who are shopping for new cars can look to the U.S News Rankings and Reviews for a comprehensive list of the best vehicles for families. The 2011 U.S. News Best Cars for Families awards choose vehicles in every category that are best-suited for families - based on safety and reliability rati...

Cool, affordable cars for college

Mon, 22 Aug 2011 17:13:13 GMT

Consumer Reports keeps a running list of suitable cars for teen drivers, and this year they've expanded to include suitable rides for college. The choices are based mainly on reliability, so college students will be able to get to class and come home for holidays without stressing about whether ...

High-performance vehicles for low budgets

Mon, 22 Aug 2011 17:06:40 GMT

If you are in the market for a used car but you don't want to settle for an economy car, there are a few high-performance options available for drivers who are shopping with an auto loan. Popular Mechanics (PM) recently compiled a list of fun used vehicles that won't break the bank. The publ...

Industry experts downgrade their new-vehicle sale expectations

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 16:08:46 GMT

New vehicle sales improved since July, according to the latest report from J.D. Power and Associates. The sales for August are projected to come in around 898,000 units, which is higher than July's numbers, but the global marketing information analyst states that the volumes haven't really b...

Incentive season is in full swing for 2011 model year vehicles

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 16:05:55 GMT

Fall is fast-approaching, which means that dealerships are offering incentives and deals for 2001 model year vehicles to get them off the lots so they have room for 2012 cars. Cars.com recently made it even easier for drivers who are looking for good deals on new cars.

"Historicall...

Used luxury cars under $20,000

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 16:05:15 GMT

If you are shopping for used cars on a budget, but still desire the smooth ride of a luxury car, you are not out of luck. Certain used luxury cars that were made in the 2000s are available in good condition for less than $18,000. Popular Mechanics recently compiled a list of some of these cars, prov...

Sprucing up a car can raise its resale value

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 16:25:08 GMT

If you are thinking of trading in your current car for a new one, there are steps you can take to improve the resale value of your vehicle. The physical condition of a car can play a major role in how much you will be able to sell your car for. Things as simple as cleaning the trash out of the passe...

Affordable vehicles perfect for back-to-school carpools

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 17:00:38 GMT

It's almost time for school, which means trading in boogie boards and beach chairs for packed lunches and school books. For many parents, the start of school also means it's time to organize carpools to save on gas and share the responsibility of driving the kids to school with other parents...

Some credit inquiries can affect your score

Tue, 16 Aug 2011 16:25:23 GMT

When you apply for a loan, lenders are going to check your credit score, and if you are applying to multiple lenders, that means multiple credit checks. Many people may be unaware that this can actually take a toll on your credit in certain cases. The Star-Ledger reports that multiple inquiries for ...

Drivers may want to apply for car loans soon to lock in low interest rates

Mon, 15 Aug 2011 16:29:27 GMT

Many Americans were worried that the debt ceiling crisis was going to wreak havoc on the U.S. economy, especially when it came to loans and interest rates for the everyday citizen. However, the Obama Administration came up with a solution in the nick of time, and it looks as though people who wanted...

Affordable new cars for drivers with car loans

Fri, 12 Aug 2011 16:16:59 GMT

Following the recession and the recent disaster in Japan that slowed production of new cars, used car prices rose, and certain models were worth more used than they were new. Now, due to the subsequent shortage of used cars, American automakers are predicting a minimum of a 10 percent increase in th...

Used car values may not drop after all, but drivers can still find affordable vehicles

Fri, 12 Aug 2011 16:15:45 GMT

Used car values have been on the rise since the recession, and went up significantly after the earthquakes in Japan restricted the production of new cars. Industry insiders are now reporting that these values may continue to remain high for a while. Kelley Blue Book recently reported that used cars ...

Volkswagen recalls 2011 and 2012 Audi R8 Spyders for fuel leaks

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 16:18:37 GMT

The Audi R8 Spyder from the 2011 and 2012 model years is currently being recalled by Volkswagen. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that the fuel lines may be getting too cozy with the heat shield in the engine compartment.

The friction of the hoses rubbing again...

More debt can help improve credit in certain cases

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 16:17:06 GMT

If you have bad credit, adding a loan to the mix might not be a bad idea. It may seem counterintuitive, but The Los Angeles Times suggests that a mortgage, personal, auto or student loan can actually help improve your credit score. Installment loans are paid off over a set period of time, with a spe...

Many wonder how U.S. credit rating downgrade will affect personal loans

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 16:14:58 GMT

America's credit rating has been a major topic of discussion as the nation narrowly avoided debt ceiling calamity and Standard and Poor (S&P) just downgraded the rating from AAA to AA+. The credit agency believes that the government has displayed weakness - in terms of the effectiveness, sta...

BMW falls under the scrutinizing eye of the NHTSA

Wed, 10 Aug 2011 16:31:36 GMT

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is currently investigating older model BMW 7 Series vehicles for a safety issue concerning their ability to remain parked. More than 120,000 BMWs from the 2002 to 2008 model years will fall under the investigation’s umbrella, The Detroit News ...

Best used cars under $12,000 for students

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 16:12:29 GMT

Kelley Blue Book recently released its 2011 Top Ten Back-to-School Cars list for parents and their high school and college students. The choices were based on affordability, reliability, fuel economy, style and safety. All of the used cars that made the list are the newest model years valued under $...

Honda issues recall for transmission software update on 2.5 million cars

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 16:57:17 GMT

Honda recently announced that it will be recalling about 2.5 million vehicles worldwide, and nearly two-thirds of the affected vehicles are on American pavement. The recall includes Accords from the 2005 to 2010 model years, 2007 to 2010 model year CR-Vs and Elements that were made between 2005 and ...

Depreciation values can make or break a new car purchase

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 15:59:51 GMT

Drivers who are looking for affordable options for new cars may want to consider the depreciation values before they make their final decisions. When a new car is purchased, it typically loses a large portion of its worth the moment it is driven off the lot. However, some vehicles retain their value...

Chrysler recalls nearly 400,000 minivans worldwide for potential airbag issues

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 16:07:41 GMT

Chrysler is yet again recalling minivans for mechanical issues that could potentially lead to inadvertent airbag deployment. Last year, the car company announced a recall to replace drain tubes and grommets that were thought to be allowing water to leak into the airbag module, according to The Detro...

Drivers should be cautious when it comes to financing a car purchase

Wed, 03 Aug 2011 16:17:17 GMT

Drivers who are thinking about buying cars should proceed with caution when shopping at a dealership. Sometimes, car salesmen will offer drivers seemingly great financing deals and they will drive off the lot in their new cars, only to get a call from the dealer, saying that the financing plan has f...

Ford recalls more than one million trucks that were sold in cold-weather states

Wed, 03 Aug 2011 16:16:26 GMT

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recently announced that Ford Motor Company is recalling 1.1 million F-150, F-250 and Lincoln Blackwood pickups that range from the 1997 to 2004 model years. Since 2008, the F-Series has been involved in a number of different recalls.

The cu...

Auto sales expected to have improved slightly over past months

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 16:13:46 GMT

Many automotive companies and analysts are predicting that July's sales numbers will show only a mild improvement over May and June as the industry recovers from the production setbacks that followed in the wake of the earthquakes in Japan.

As dealers recover their inventories, many dri...

More new credit available than in past four years

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 16:12:56 GMT

The American credit cycle appears to finally be turning around after four years of declines. Equifax, one of the three major credit reporting bureaus, recently released its June 2011 Credit Trend Report, which shows that available new credit in April 2011 was roughly $240 billion, 15 percent higher ...

New website makes finding recall information easier

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 16:05:16 GMT

A new website was recently created to help consumers stay on top of product recalls, and the main focus of UnitedRecalls.com is automobiles. This site allows users to search for their specific vehicles to see if any recalls are active for their make and model. While the National Highway Traffic Safe...

Baby boomers rank Chevy Aveo a favorite among sports cars and luxury vehicles

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 16:04:28 GMT

Baby boomers are finding themselves with more income and less responsibilities as their kids grow up and leave home, and many are using the opportunity to get rid of their minivans and economy cars and upgrade to sportier rides. TrueCar.com recently compiled a list of the top ten cars purchased by B...

Don't settle for a high interest auto loan just because your credit isn't perfect

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 15:41:50 GMT

If you are considering purchasing a car, but you know you will need a car loan to do so, you should shop around to find the best rates before choosing a lender. The first thing you should do when you are preparing to apply for a loan is to get a hold of your cre...

NHTSA pushes for more methods of preventing accidental child death in cars

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 16:36:34 GMT

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recently held a roundtable to discuss possible strategies to lower the risk of vehicular child death. The interior of a car can climb to 119 degrees Fahrenheit in 30 minutes on an 85 degree day, according to The New York Times, and if a chil...

Finding a good used car and keeping it running

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 17:39:49 GMT

If you are thinking about buying a used car with a bad credit car loan, chances are you will want your car to last as long as possible before you need to replace it. Many used vehicles already have high mileage at the point of purchase, b...

Used car report card determines which vehicles pass the test

Tue, 26 Jul 2011 16:45:13 GMT

Shopping for a used car can be overwhelming as there are so many options available. If a driver doesn't know much about cars, they might accidentally purchase a lemon, but a new rating system has been developed to prevent that mistake.

Alliance Inspection Management recently launched a ...

Finding the best used car for under $10,000

Tue, 26 Jul 2011 16:44:25 GMT

People who are searching for affordable used vehicles can find plenty of information online about the best used cars. Web2carz.com recently released its picks for the best used vehicles under $10,000 and the 2004 Toyota Prius came out on top.

The Prius gets 45 miles per gallon on the highwa...

Used car values remain high but maybe not for long

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 17:32:05 GMT

Some used cars were worth more than their new brethren back in June, and while the value of pre-owned vehicles peaked that month, costs remain high. The NADA Used Car Guide reports that trade-in values of small cars that will be 10 to 30 percent higher in August than they were at the beginning of th...

GM releases a universal OnStar rear-view mirror for cars of any make and model

Sun, 24 Jul 2011 11:13:38 GMT

The OnStar safety system that has been standard on many General Motors cars and trucks is now available for any vehicle, regardless of its maker. This is good news for people who bought an older car with a bad credit car loan, because the...

Ford recalls more than 20,000 SUVs and pickups for issue with exterior lights

Fri, 22 Jul 2011 11:12:26 GMT

Ford is recalling a variety of trucks and SUVs that were made between 2002 and 2011 for a possible electrical issue that could disrupt the exterior lamps. The recall affects more than 20,000 vehicles, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA).

The recall...

Best cars under $18,000

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 17:25:11 GMT

If you are shopping for a car on a budget, you don't necessarily have to go with a used vehicle. Many used cars are worth more than their new counterparts due to the state of the economy and the increased demand for used vehicles. There are also plenty of new cars on the market that are priced b...

Used doesn't have to mean old when it comes to buying a car on a budget

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 16:17:15 GMT

It may be hard to believe, but it is possible to buy a car that was made fairly recently without breaking the bank. Cars.com recently published its list of the best cars for $10,000, providing a good jumping off point for people who are shopping with a car loans for people with bad credit, improving a credit score can never hurt someone looking to apply for any type of loan.

According to personal finance author Liz Weston, many credit myths are causing people...

The BBB warns against shady auto warranties

Mon, 18 Jul 2011 10:05:18 GMT

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) recently reported an auto warranty scam that warns car buyers to think carefully before making an investment on a vehicle service contract, the Daily Progress reported.

The brothers who owned US Fidelis, which was once one of the nation's top auto servic...

Safety is utmost concern for teens' cars

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 16:28:16 GMT

Parents need to consider safety over cost when choosing the best car with their teen driver, according to car experts.

David Champion, the senior director of Consumer Reports' auto test division, told The Item that the best picks for teens are mid-size sedans with anti-lock brakes and t...

Chrysler recalls nearly 243,000 Dodge Ram trucks

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 15:06:08 GMT

Chrysler recently issued a recall for Dodge Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 heavy-duty pickup trucks that were produced between 2003 and 2011 for an issue with the tie-rod. A weakening of the ball stud may cause a fracture in the tie-rod during low-speed maneuvers, especially sharp turns, the National Highw...

Kate Middleton's 2001 Volkswagen Golf worth twice what she paid for it

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 15:05:18 GMT

A 2001 Volkswagen Golf that was first owned by the Duchess of Cambridge is about to be put on auction by its second owner, Sonny Brazil. The 21-year-old Brit got the car for about £1,400 ($2,300) from the Middleton family in 2009, The Daily Mail reports.

Kate Middleton purchase...

How lending institutions determine your credit worthiness

Wed, 13 Jul 2011 16:19:13 GMT

When you apply for a used car loan, lenders will investigate your credit history to determine how much they are willing to give you and at what rate you will be charged interest. When they evaluate you, they look majorly at three factors - current debt, the leng...

Slowdown of economic recovery forces Feds to keep interest rates low

Wed, 13 Jul 2011 16:18:15 GMT

The economic recovery has slowed down enough to make the Federal Reserve consider keeping interest rates low, making this a good time to apply for a loan.

The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC), which is in charge of setting interest rates in the U.S., discontinued its quantitative ea...

Coolest inexpensive new cars of 2011

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 10:41:02 GMT

Kelley Blue Book (KBB) recently released its picks for coolest new cars (2011 and 2012 model years) under $18,000, and people who are considering buying a car on a budget can use a car payment calculator to determine if these...

$2,500 can get buyers a good car

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 15:37:42 GMT

It may be unfortunate and it may seem impossible, but sometimes buyers have very limited funds to work with when buying a car. The good news is that it is possible, Edmunds.com reports. The website offers tips for buying a car with only $2,500.

First, buyers should not set their expectation...

Leasing cars provides low monthly payments

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 15:34:52 GMT

The trend of leasing cars has been up for at least six months, with significant spikes in the leasing of Mercedes-Benz and BMW, but also in Ford, General Motors and Chrysler, according to Cars.com. The report came from a study by R.L. Polk & Co., an auto marketing and data collection company.

Drivers can cut the cost of gas and reduce emissions

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 15:33:44 GMT

Drivers looking to save money may find themselves also helping the environment, as many cost-cutting tips can save energy and make cars more green.

High gas prices are causing many travelers to stay home this summer, but KPVI News offers tips for drivers to enjoy the summer season without s...

Hyundai Elantra gives buyers and competitors a run for their money

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 15:30:42 GMT

Edmunds recently released its list of the best used cars for 2011, and the Hyundai Elantra was the top pick in the compact sedan category. This car can be a good option for people who are looking to buy a used car with a bad credit car loan

NHTSA may require electric cars to emit warning sounds around pedestrians

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 15:29:24 GMT

The National Highway Traffic Safety Adminstration recently announced that it will be making efforts to improve safety features for electric and hybrid vehicles. The environmentally conservative vehicles reduce emissions and use less fuel than standard gasoline-fueled cars, but their electric motors ...

Chevy Impala gets a softer look and a tougher engine for 2012

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 16:16:50 GMT

Chevrolet has been producing the Impala since 1958, and the 2012 model will be redesigned with a slightly smoother frame and a markedly more powerful engine. The automaker will give the new car a direct-injected V6 that will be capable of generating an impressive 302 horsepower. The General Mot...

Mobile apps allow consumers to shop for cars on-the-go

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 16:15:17 GMT

Autotrader.com created a free application that allows iPhone users to browse nearby dealers and cars for sale. Users who have auto-focus cameras on their iPhones can scan VIN numbers to see if the car is posted for sale on AutoTrader.com. Scanning the VIN will also allow users to view similar vehicl...

Chrysler's notoriously bad quality has improved

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 15:33:25 GMT

Chrysler does not need to feel embarrassed over its quality anymore, according to Doug Betts, the company's senior vice president of quality, Bloomberg reports.

The company has been improving its "horrible" quality and customer perception since 2007. As a result, the rate of c...

Four popular cars are ranked cheapest to insure

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 15:31:31 GMT

Insure.com recently awarded four automakers with the Low Cost Car Insurance Awards. Toyota, Chrysler, Nissan and Chevrolet were recognized as manufacturers that make vehicles that are the least expensive to insure.

The awards included cars, minivans, SUVs and trucks - with models like the T...

Ford will improve models based on consumer feedback

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 15:29:17 GMT

In response to customer complaints, Ford is going to tweak its voice recognition software in its vehicles. Customers found the connectivity tools on the Sync and MyFord Touch systems difficult or frustrating to use, according to the Detroit Free Press.

The technologies allow drivers to comp...

Tips for buying used cars

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 16:17:05 GMT

Purchasing a used car can be tricky, but there are a few ways to improve your chances of getting a good deal on a vehicle. The first step is to determine a budget. If you think you will need to borrow money but have poor credit, you can apply for a best cars for bad credit, with ratings that have all the makings of a good investment.

According to Cars.com reviewer Bill Jackson, the RAV4 is so reliable and solid that ...

Experts: Michigan will play large role in alternative fuel vehicle manufacturing

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 15:57:42 GMT

Auto experts say that Michigan will produce an estimated 20 percent of lithium-ion batteries in the future, playing a large role in the growing electric car industry, the Detroit Free Press reports.

A panel discussed Michigan's future in electric car manufacturing at the Detroit Economi...

To buy or to lease? That is the question

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 11:07:06 GMT

Many prospective car owners waver between buying and leasing a car. While leasing offers lower payments, buying is an investment, and drivers will have something to show for their money once the term of the payment is up, Smart Money reports.

The news source says that the decision to buy or...

More cars will be built with start/stop technology in 2016

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 11:06:09 GMT

Up to 55 percent of new vehicles will have start/stop technology in 2016, Autoguide.com reports. The technology, which shuts the car's engine off while at rest and turns it back on when the gas pedal is pressed, saves 5 to 12 percent of emissions in conventional gasoline-powered vehicles, accord...

Teens and parents have many options for first car

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 13:59:36 GMT

The excitement of getting their license causes many teens to want a car of their own. However, parents and teens must consider all the options before heading to the dealership for this purchase, the Milford Daily News reports.

Researching the safety and reliability of cars is key, the news ...

Auto companies, politicians and environmentalists debate over new fuel standard proposals

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 13:56:10 GMT

The Obama administration's ambitious proposal for cars and light trucks, SUVs and vans to average 56 miles per gallon by 2025 received mixed reception among automakers and environmental groups, the Detroit Free Press reports.

The figure was released to the Detroit Three last week as a p...

Ford widens interior fonts in 2012 models

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 08:53:04 GMT

Elderly populations with worsening vision may find it easier to drive a Ford Edge or Ford Explorer next year. The automaker is introducing these 2012 models with larger, bolder fonts in the interiors, Smart Money reported.

The wording on interior displays and controls, such as dashboard dis...

Japanese Camry ranked Most American Car

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 08:52:26 GMT

The Toyota Camry was recently ranked the Most American Car by Cars.com. The rankings are based on the percentage of parts that are made domestically, where they are sold and how many are sold to Americans.

Patrick Olsen, the editor-in-chief of Cars.com, said that most cars built in the U.S....

Google, Volkswagon release auto pilot technology in cars

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 08:50:28 GMT

Volkswagon recently released its Temporary Auto Pilot technology in its vehicles, which allows a car to drive semi-automatically at up to 80 miles per hour on highways while monitored by a driver, Discovery News reported.

This automaker's feat follows that of Google's automated Priu...

GM may recall model of Chevy Malibu over child safety issue

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 08:36:01 GMT

General Motors may have to voluntarily recall all 2000-2001 model-year vehicles that have trunks after KidsAndCars.org demanded this action on Monday, The New York Times reported.

The nonprofit organization that advocates for safety around children and automobiles was prompted to take actio...

The Prius makes a comeback as Japan recovers

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 08:10:28 GMT

Toyota is finally seeing an end to the shortage of Priuses that has plagued American dealerships since the Japanese tsunami in March, the Daily Breeze reports.

The devastating 9.0 earthquake and subsequent tsunami disrupted factories in Japan as it ripped through the country and destroyed v...

Kelly Blue Book ranks cheap cars on "cool" factor

Fri, 24 Jun 2011 14:47:56 GMT

Kelly Blue Book (KBB) recently reported a list of 10 cars that cost under $18,000, which it stated weren't the average, boring and simple car that one may get for that price. The company rated these cars based on "coolness," it said. Their cool factor was based on how fun the car is to...

The old Honda Civic model is a better buy

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 16:31:19 GMT

According to Consumer Reports, the new Honda Civic, which boasts a better fuel economy than past models, will not save consumers more money than the older cars did.

The Honda website says that its 2012 model, the Honda Civic HF, gets 41 miles per gallon on the highway and 29 in the city. Co...

New cars may be a better choice than used for people who have bad credit

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 14:59:59 GMT

Auto Credit Express reported that people who have bad credit often look to buy used cars rather than new ones, because they imagine that they will have lower monthly payments.

However, the organization says that other factors, such as lender rates, maintenance costs and the down payment, ca...

Buyers should beware of auto recalls

Tue, 21 Jun 2011 14:58:44 GMT

Figuring out car financing is generally the part of buying a car that takes up most of a consumer's energy. However, new reports suggest that they should also be concerned with any recalls that may have been a part of the car's past.
...

Buyers can get better loans by improving credit

Mon, 20 Jun 2011 16:36:13 GMT

Having a good credit score makes it easy to get a car loan, but today, more companies are willing to adapt car loans for people with bad credit. RightWay Automotive Credit in Chicago reports that alth...

Auto executives predict a green future for car sales

Fri, 17 Jun 2011 07:40:49 GMT

Despite recent studies stating the opposite, auto executives predict that electric vehicles will account for 50 percent of car sales in 2020, the Detroit Free Press reported.

Jason Forcier, the vice president of the Automotive Solutions Group at A123 Systems, a battery manufacturer, made th...

JPMorgan Chase to pay millions for misleading customers on car loans

Fri, 17 Jun 2011 07:32:32 GMT

JPMorgan Chase will pay $27 million to settle allegations of high-pressure sales tactics in its auto-lending unit, although the bank currently has not admitted to or denied any wrongdoing on their part, Reuters reported.

The bank said it has changed its sales practices from those that led i...

The 2012 BMW M5 finally arrives

Thu, 16 Jun 2011 14:43:28 GMT

After weeks of anticipation and internet leaks, BMW has finally revealed its new model for 2012, the M5.

Fox Sports reports that the "lag-free" luxury sedan boasts just seven pounds per horsepower. It has a turbo V-8 TwinPower engine that is rated at 560 horsepower at 6,000-7,000 ...

Gas prices make owning a car more expensive this summer

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 13:31:03 GMT

When shopping for a car, it is important that buyers consider the costs that owning a vehicle can incur on top of the monthly payments and insurance bills.

As gas costs an average $4 per gallon in most places nationwide this summer, car owners may want to put aside a larger chunk of their i...

New car technology aims to prevent animal collisions

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 17:06:26 GMT

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that each year, there are 1.5 million crashes with deer, which cost roughly $1.1 billion in damages, and cause 150 deaths and 10,000 injuries.

While researchers and developers have been putting their heads together for years in an e...

Re-claiming a car payment

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 12:15:35 GMT

Struggling with a car payment can happen for a variety of reasons - not solely because a driver did not plan adequately for their purchase.

Whatever the reason, missing car payments or returning the car to the dealership can have serious consequences on a credit score, according to Fox Busi...

Re-claiming a car payment

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 12:15:35 GMT

Best cars for those seeking fuel efficiency

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 19:29:55 GMT

With gas prices high, many consumers are turning toward fuel-efficient vehicles to help save them money at the pump. Consumer Reports recently tested a wide variety of fuel-efficient cars to find out which were the best choices for drivers looking to switch.

Some might say that the EPA alre...

Tips for negotiating at the dealer

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 19:29:37 GMT

Securing a car loan in advance is the first step to having a successful negotiation at the dealership. However, there are many other things that buyers can do to make the process go more smoothly.

Some drivers may think negotiating is all about facts an...

Study finds credit report errors common, but not significant

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 19:29:06 GMT

A recent study by the Policy and Economic Research Council has found that while many credit reports have errors, a good portion are minor in nature and not significant enough to affect car loan rates.

The New York Times reports that the Policy and Econo...

Buying cars can be difficult for college grads

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 16:23:39 GMT

For graduates, part of entering the real world is making sure they have a ride. Main Street says that many post-grad lives will require a car, although many graduates have little to no credit and even smaller amounts of savings.

While choosing the style of car can be important to a 22-year-...

Buying cars can be difficult for college grads

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 16:23:39 GMT

Borrow more to save more

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 20:04:16 GMT

For the uninitiated, navigating the credit and lending industries can feel like being a fish out of water. There are all sorts of terms to learn, and frankly some things just fly in the face of common sense.

As an example, the San Francisco Chronicle recently revealed some ways to save mone...

Refinancing can help buyers score savings on car loans

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 20:04:04 GMT

There are many ways for drivers to save money on their car loans, but the real savings will come when shoppers begin to pay attention to the kinds of interest rates they're being offered.

A recent article by the San Francisco Chronicle shows the num...

KBB: Consumers feeling positive about economy, gas prices

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 20:03:21 GMT

New data from Kelley Blue Book (KBB) indicates that consumers' opinions on high gas prices and economic conditions are slowly becoming more positive.

The latest report from KBB polled car shoppers in the month of May and asked them a few questions about their feelings on the economy and...

Used car prices shoot sky high

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 20:03:03 GMT

With drivers looking to save money on their vehicle purchase, the prices of used cars are soaring, according to MSNBC.

A variety of factors are contributing to the major increase in used car prices, including the Japanese earthquake, high gas prices and the slow economic recovery, the news ...

Best and worst cars for vehicle fatalities

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 20:02:38 GMT

It's always nice when a car does well in crash tests, but just as important for drivers to be aware of are the models that aren't known for their protection.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety recently released a report detailing the average fatalities for a long list of pop...

Car loans drive consumer credit increase

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 09:00:00 GMT

The month of April saw the seventh straight increase in consumer credit, driven mainly by high demand for auto loans, according to the latest report from the Federal Reserve.

Analysts have tracked seven consecutive months of a rise in credit usage across the nation, although the numbers don...

Gas prices fall sixteen cents in two weeks

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 19:18:31 GMT

Lately, one of the biggest economic factors weighing on consumers' minds have been high gas prices. While there are ways to cut back on your gas usage, you'll ultimately have to head to the pump eventually - and with prices hovering around $4 per gallon, that's not likely to be a pleasan...

Beware the "hard inquiry"

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 19:57:25 GMT

The credit score game can be quite confusing, and there always seems to be something that can knock your score down a few pegs. One thing to watch out for are "hard inquiries," which can be caused from some surprising actions.

AOL's WalletPop reports that these hard inquiries ...

Effective use of your utilization rate

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 19:57:09 GMT

For those hoping to improve their credit score to perhaps improve the interest rates offered to them on car loans or mortgages, utilization rate is one of the most important factors that a consumer can understand. FICO (the company behind the main credit score m...

Consumers have few recourses for credit report errors

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 19:26:16 GMT

A recent editorial in USA Today is calling for a revamped error-reporting system for the three major credit bureaus, which consumer advocates say is woefully lacking.

Credit is one of the most important measures of financial health nowadays, as it can affect everything from bad credit auto loan market is constantly shifting, but borrowers got some good news today when major credit bureau TransUnion revealed that delinquencies have hit record lows for the automotive sector.

Delinquencies, defined...

Study: Average American family to spend $3,100 on fuel this year

Tue, 31 May 2011 20:30:41 GMT

A new study has revealed that the average American family is spending $3,100 on gas, a sharp increase from the average expenditure tracked two years ago.

The Consumer Federation of America recently ran a study tracking driver's spendings at the gas pump. Extrapolated over the year, the ...

Fuel-efficient cars impress on safety test

Fri, 27 May 2011 17:31:12 GMT

There's no doubt the fuel-efficient hatchbacks and crossovers are some of the best cars for bad credit right now, especially with gas prices as high as they are. However, drivers shouldn't compromise safety just...

Experian: More bad credit auto loans in first quarter

Fri, 27 May 2011 17:30:53 GMT

Recent data from major credit bureau Experian showed that more lenders extended bad credit auto loans during the first quarter of 2011, loosening their restrictions on approval.

The data shows that subprime car loans jumped by 11 percent in the first qu...

Drivers seek out high-MPG models

Thu, 26 May 2011 19:51:18 GMT

A recent survey by Consumer Reports has revealed that Americans are expecting to get more miles per gallon out of their next vehicle, and are willing to shell out more in order to do it.

According to the poll, 62 percent of respondents said that they expect significant improvements to their...

Poll: Electric cars still have ways to go

Thu, 26 May 2011 19:50:52 GMT

With high gas prices taking their toll on all Americans right now, one might assume that electric vehicles would be among the best cars for bad credit buyers. However, a new poll from USA Today and Gallup has revealed t...

TransUnion: Mortgage defaulters may not be a credit risk

Thu, 26 May 2011 09:00:00 GMT

A new study from TransUnion reveals that buyers who default on their mortgage are not as much of a credit risk as their scores may indicate.

The study looked at those who had defaulted on their mortgage in the recent recession and found that these consumers were less likely to default today...

How a divorce can impact credit scores

Wed, 25 May 2011 18:56:39 GMT

A divorce can be tough to deal with not just emotionally, but financially as well. It may not be any person's top priority while going through a divorce, but the future of your credit score is an important factor to think about.

If you and your partner opened joint accounts together on ...

Subprime lending could boost auto sales

Tue, 24 May 2011 19:21:24 GMT

With car sales expected to be sluggish in the month of May, automakers are going to be looking at ways to increase sales throughout the summer. According to Matthew DeBord of BNET, the first place they should look is bad credit auto loans.

After the recession took its toll on the country...

Americans pay down debt, reduce delinquencies

Tue, 24 May 2011 19:21:02 GMT

New data from major credit bureau TransUnion shows that more Americans are paying down their credit card debt, which is generally considered by analysts to be a good sign of the country's economic future.

The rate of delinquent payments in the first quarter of 2011 fell to 0.74 percent,...

Older accounts "golden" when it comes to credit score

Mon, 23 May 2011 19:05:23 GMT

There's a lot of contradictory information floating around about ways you can raise your credit score, especially with regards to what credit card accounts to keep.

Some experts advise spenders to pay off a card and then immediately close it. Others say that keeping cards open can help ...

Handle the small things before applying

Mon, 23 May 2011 19:04:14 GMT

There are many factors that ultimately influence a credit score, and buyers who educates themselves on all of them can help greatly improve the kinds of car loan terms they may be offered. One thing that drivers should consider is taking care of any small blemis...

Think carefully before trading in

Mon, 23 May 2011 19:02:05 GMT

Many drivers right now are enthralled with the idea of turning in their old gas guzzlers for one of the new, highly fuel-efficient models, but Consumer Reports suggests that buyers really analyze all the angles before pulling the trigger on a new car loan, lease...

Making a budget makes financial sense

Thu, 19 May 2011 15:49:45 GMT

If you're looking to improve your credit score, one of the best things you can do for yourself is make a budget. This way, you can easily see how much money you have to work with each month and ensure that your score doesn't drop any further.

For starters, make a list of your predic...

Lenders increase range of credit scores

Thu, 19 May 2011 15:49:16 GMT

A recent study by the consulting firm A.T. Kearney suggested that lenders go after a wider range of credit scores, as buyers who may have had their scores drop during the recession might not be as much of a risk as their scores indicate.

It now appears as if lenders are doing exactly that, ...

Down payments can be key to car loan approval

Thu, 19 May 2011 15:49:00 GMT

There are many factors that go into car financing, but one of the key components that buyers should be aware of is the all-important down payment. Many lenders advertise "no money down," but down payments are there for a reason. Paying ...

High prices for used cars may be temporary

Wed, 18 May 2011 22:48:01 GMT

Although recent reports of record highs in used-vehicle prices have many consumers wary of buying a new car in the current market, experts say the rising costs may not last, according to The Associated Press.

The high price of owning a car these days (in terms of purchasing the car itself a...

High gas prices causing financial hardship

Tue, 17 May 2011 21:07:34 GMT

If you're feeling the negative effects of the skyrocketing gas prices, you aren't alone. According to USA Today/Gallup Poll research, 70 percent of Americans have been experiencing "financial hardship" since prices have gone up to around $4 per gallon.

More than 50 percent...

Reader tips for saving money on gas

Tue, 17 May 2011 21:06:51 GMT

Gas is the reigning problem for drivers, with prices reaching $4 per gallon, it doesn't look like they will go back down anytime soon. SavingsAccounts.com recently reached out to its readers for advice on reducing their gas bills, and here are a few handy tips they've come up with for changi...

Banks report decrease in late payments and credit defaults

Tue, 17 May 2011 21:06:19 GMT

Good news for those with bad credit: consumers are becoming more in control of their money, as credit card defaults and late payments were at a record low in April, reports The Associated Press.

This signals an improving economy, which could potentially benefit consumers by creating more jo...

Demand for Toyota Prius boosts sticker price

Mon, 16 May 2011 17:53:25 GMT

The Toyota Prius has seen a boom in sales lately, so much that it has been selling for more than its actual retail cost, according to USA Today.

While savvy car buyers know that the invoice price of a vehicle is one's best bet to haggling a vehicle's cost with a dealer, transactions...

The best and worst pre-owned vehicles

Mon, 16 May 2011 17:52:49 GMT

Used cars are often the best choice for those with a bad credit auto loan, especially if they are purchased within a few years of the model date. Sometimes, however, pre-owned cars can quickly turn into lemons, which could result in havin...

What to do when a loved one commits identity theft

Fri, 13 May 2011 16:49:41 GMT

Identity theft is a complicated matter in itself, only to be made even more problematic when the perpetrator is a friend or family member. It is not only a shocking matter when one finds out that someone close to them has done this, but it can also make one feel conflicted. How can you take legal ac...

Bank of America customers may authorize overdrafts via text

Thu, 12 May 2011 16:50:19 GMT

Last year, federal banking regulations required customers to choose whether their financial institution should decline any debit card purchases that would overdraw their account or if the purchase should be authorized along with an overdraft fee. While many people had the choice of opting in or out ...

Pickup sales hit record low

Thu, 12 May 2011 16:49:50 GMT

The pickup truck sector of the auto industry is on the decline, reports USA Today's DriveOn.

According to the news source, total sales of these types of vehicles have hit a record 31-year low, accounting for 11.8 percent of all new car sales last month.

While many are quick to ...

The danger of retail credit cards

Thu, 12 May 2011 16:49:34 GMT

For those who are just starting out in the money game, it is likely that there is no credit score attached to their name. This may make it difficult for these consumers to secure a line of credit, whether it be a car loan or credit card. Often times, applying fo...

Oil drops to below $100 a barrel

Wed, 11 May 2011 20:12:40 GMT

Consumers are being hit hard with the expensive gas prices these days, but a recent drop in the cost of oil may provide some solace. According to USA Today, the New York Mercantile Exchange showed oil prices dropping by 15 percent this week to under $100 per barrel.

The news source reports ...

Credit cards that can save you money on gas

Wed, 11 May 2011 20:10:54 GMT

There is plenty of temptation to use up the funds on one's credit card, but if used responsibly they can not only help build a good credit score (which will help consumers get better rates on a car loan or mortgage), but they can also help save some money. T...

Consumers may want to hold back from car shopping for now

Tue, 10 May 2011 19:17:35 GMT

The last few years have been quite tough on American consumers, especially in recent times. Not only has the auto industry downsized considerably, but gas prices have skyrocketed and the March earthquake in Japan caused numerous production disruptions. The market these days is not ideal, and US News...

The cheapest eco-friendly cars on the market

Tue, 10 May 2011 19:16:59 GMT

With the rising price of gas, many consumers are looking towards more fuel-efficient cars to help save a bit of money. But the problem is, these environmentally friendly cars, like electric or hybrid models, can be costly themselves. Luckily, MSN Autos has done the extra leg work for car shoppers an...

Used car prices continue to rise

Tue, 10 May 2011 19:16:23 GMT

Continuing its escalating streak, used car prices have hit an all-time high once again, USA Today reports.

In order to save a bit a money, some consumers prefer to opt for a used vehicle rather than buying a brand new one right off the lot. However, records for April document yet another mo...

Apps to help you save at the pump

Tue, 10 May 2011 19:15:45 GMT

Gas prices are all over the news these days. Drivers can't turn on the TV or read the paper without being reminded that they will have to spend their next paycheck at the pump. In an effort to help consumers save a little money, mobile application website Appitalism.com has outlined just how you...

Routine maintenance keeps up a car's efficiency

Tue, 10 May 2011 19:15:10 GMT

Those with a bad credit auto loan likely do not have the funds to spring for an electric or hybrid car. However, there are other ways to lessen your environmental impact, and it's as simple as maintaining your car's appearance. Do...

Credit disputes may not affect credit score, study shows

Mon, 09 May 2011 17:55:54 GMT

It is always important to check your credit score at least once a year to make sure that all the information is correct and that you've authorized all accounts, as incorrect data could potentially lower your FICO score and hinder chances of securing a car loan

Moviegoers catch fast-car fever this spring

Fri, 06 May 2011 17:45:14 GMT

The nation's number one movie at the box office may inspire more than a few motor enthusiasts to apply for a car loan this spring.

Fast Five, starring Vin Diesel, Paul Walker and Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, accrued $83.6 million in ticket s...

Going abroad can save students money

Thu, 05 May 2011 22:02:17 GMT

College is a fantastic experience, but students may not feel so enthused about their higher education when the tuition bill comes. Those who are considering different universities should take a look abroad, as the institutions overseas may cost far less than American colleges.

According to ...

Subaru enjoys record month of American sales

Thu, 05 May 2011 13:21:44 GMT

April was a good month to be a car dealer, as sale numbers significantly increased for many automakers.

Car loans must have been flying off the shelves, especially for lenders who were financing Subaru models. According to a press release, the company&#...

Used car loans can help drivers survive gas-price hike

Thu, 05 May 2011 13:21:02 GMT

A sluggish economy and rising gas prices have led to an increased interest in used car loans. Instead of being strapped down by a long-term commitment to a new vehicle, many Americans have found more peace of mind in buying an automobile with some miles behind i...

Some young Americans struggle to build credit before securing car loan

Thu, 05 May 2011 13:17:57 GMT

Many young Americans are exploring car loan rates in hopes of picking up a new set of wheels. Unfortunately, some of these individuals have trouble securing a car loan because they have little or no credit history.

Furthermore, new federal laws have mad...

Are debt-settlement companies too good to be true?

Thu, 05 May 2011 09:26:03 GMT

We've all seen the television commercials or heard the radio advertisements about debt-settlement companies and how they can take your hand and mysteriously pull you out of the financial hole you are drowning in. This may seem like a life-saver to those who are desperate, but are they really wor...

Renting a car vs. owning a car

Thu, 05 May 2011 09:25:27 GMT

Those who are strapped for cash but need a car may think that renting one would be a sufficient temporary alternative, but as gas prices are on the rise, this could be detrimental to one's bank account.

Customers are typically required to fill up their gas tanks before returning their v...

Bad credit car loan can help shoppers maintain their family's comfort, safety

Wed, 04 May 2011 11:19:28 GMT

Family responsibilities can create credit problems for some Americans. In an attempt to cover the bare essentials, such groceries, healthcare costs and mortgage payments, some adults find themselves in a financial mess.

However, a poor credit history should not dissuade individuals from con...

Finding an affordable car loan can provide long-term financial security

Wed, 04 May 2011 11:18:38 GMT

When applying for a car loan, individuals should be prepared to make on-time payments. It may seem like an elementary concept, but with rising gas prices and a sluggish economy, you'd be surprised how many people are skipping payments without thinking about ...

Federal lawmakers propose tax credit for electric car owners

Wed, 04 May 2011 08:34:40 GMT

Many Individuals who are applying for a bad credit car loan are on the lookout for any savings opportunity that is available. Several Congressmen are doing their best to provide one of those breaks.

According to The Metrowest Dai...

Joint accounts: What happens after divorce?

Tue, 03 May 2011 16:13:38 GMT

There are many major decisions to make when getting married, one of which involves signing up for a joint credit card. This is something each partner must think about seriously, as doing so can affect both parties' credit scores.

One consideration to keep in mind is the probability of d...

Low interest rates attract consumers to used car loans

Tue, 03 May 2011 12:47:27 GMT

A recent article in the Lancaster Eagle Gazette states that it is a good time for consumers to apply for a used car loan.

The media outlet reports that many lenders are offering single-digit interest rates, which has prompted some Americans to consider ...

GM's spike in sales suggests that Americans are relying on car loans

Tue, 03 May 2011 12:22:54 GMT

New figures from General Motors (GM) indicate that consumer confidence has significantly increased in the U.S.

According to Reuters, GM revealed on Tuesday that its American sales rose by 26 percent in April, which is higher than the 16 percent projection made by analysts. The company said ...

Lack of credit usage could be keeping you from raising your FICO score

Mon, 02 May 2011 17:14:46 GMT

Most people have some sort of debt looming over their heads, and while the select few that do not should feel proud of their accomplishment, they may not be doing anything to help their credit scores. Credit bureaus take into account the various lines of credit one is able to juggle, and those who u...

Gas prices continue to hover around $4 per gallon

Mon, 02 May 2011 17:13:29 GMT

With summer just around the corner, and likely a much-anticipated vacation for many, travelers are consumed with the thought of how much they will be spending at the pump in the future. Gas prices have hit $4 and beyond all across the country, but The Associated Press is reporting that the cost of f...

The 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is good for bad credit drivers

Mon, 02 May 2011 17:13:03 GMT

The Volkswagen Jetta has long been one of the best cars for bad credit, as its affordable price tag offers drivers a wide range of amenities and solid performance. The 2011 edition was recently given a 7.7/10 rating by ...

Gas prices force many Americans to go small

Mon, 02 May 2011 15:08:20 GMT

Purchasing a small, affordable car appeals to many individuals who are seeking a bad credit car loan. However, the recent spike in gas prices has prompted many Americans, regardless of their financial history, to downgrade the size of the...

Preserving equity involves shrewd car loan management

Mon, 02 May 2011 14:57:59 GMT

Consumers should attempt to avoid an upside down car loan, which is when the remaining balance on a loan is higher than what the automobile is worth.

This predicament may seem unavoidable to people who are applying for a car loan rates is not a foreign concept to many educated Americans. Millions of college students apply for financial help every year, so most of these individuals are familiar with the borrowing process.

According to FinAid.org, th...

Trade-in guarantee may ease worries of car loan applicants

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 13:30:46 GMT

Many consumers who are applying for a car loan hope that by trading in their used vehicle, they will receive additional savings on a new purchase. However, before they start punching these numbers into a bad credit auto loan.

There are a wide variety of editions to choose f...

Albany looks to encourage electric cars with recharge station

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 17:13:48 GMT

As a number of people are looking to save at the pump despite skyrocketing fuel prices, more consumers are choosing to head to the dealer for vehicles with a higher fuel efficiency.

Now, some residential areas are choosing to gear up for a potential influx of environmentally friendly vehicl...

Hyundai sees dramatic spike in sales following U.S. market push, Japan quake

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 17:13:00 GMT

As many people are struggling to afford a car despite being able to take out a car loan, the ability to afford a less expensive vehicle is growing increasingly crucial to today's market.

This could be one of the reasons that Hyundai Motor Company sa...

Military families can include new Chevrolet discount into their car loan calculator

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 14:29:37 GMT

Military personnel who are seeking a car loan received some good news from Chevrolet this week.

The General Motors-owned company revealed that it will recognize National Military Appreciation Month by expanding its military discount to include spouses o...

Chrysler on the verge of paying off its debt

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 14:28:29 GMT

Like many of its customers who are in search for bad credit car loan, Chrysler has endured its own financial hardships.

Chrysler was in the worst condition of the Detroit-based automakers when the government bailed out the Big Th...

J.D. Power says vehicle dependability is improving

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 14:27:18 GMT

While consumers are crunching numbers on a car loan calculator, there is one thing that they can count on: Vehicle dependability in the U.S. is better than ever.

Some individuals who are applying for a bad credit auto loan may not be able to get the car of their dreams, leaving the lot with a "value car" seems to be the trend these days. According to USA Today, this segment of vehicles is becoming more and m...

Subaru unveils fuel-efficient Impreza in New York

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 08:08:22 GMT

There were plenty of exciting unveilings at the recent New York International Auto Show, and Subaru did not show up empty-handed. The automaker debuted the 2012 edition of the Impreza, which has been touted for its impressive fuel economy.

The car company has boosted the Impreza's milea...

Volt owners have gone hundreds of miles without filling up

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 08:07:33 GMT

With gas prices expected to hit at least $5 per gallon this summer, those with a bad credit auto loan are most likely in the market for a car that allows them to avoid the pump as much as possible. The Chevrolet Volt has been making headl...

Increase in fuel costs leads to pricier used vehicles

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 08:04:22 GMT

It's no secret that gas prices are higher than ever and there doesn't seem to be an end in sight. Unfortunately, that's not the only thing that's increasing, as the high cost of fuel has cause the price of used vehicles to skyrocket as well, according to ABC affiliate WCPO.

...

New study warns consumers about marked-up finance plans

Wed, 27 Apr 2011 13:35:00 GMT

Some people who have bad credit will quickly pounce on any opportunity to receive a car loan from a dealer. However, a new study suggests that individuals should shop around before signing off on a financing plan.

According to the Center for Responsible...

Hyundai boasts four models that offer 40 mpg highway fuel economy

Wed, 27 Apr 2011 13:34:29 GMT

Speculation that gas prices will continue to rise throughout the spring and summer may scare some individuals from applying for a bad credit car loan in order to purchase a new vehicle.

However, some manufacturers have gone to gr...

Car shoppers should pick up the phone and compare prices

Wed, 27 Apr 2011 13:33:45 GMT

After securing an online car loan, the next move for many consumers is scouring local dealerships to find the right vehicle in their price range.

According to a recent article in the San Francisco Chronicle, there are several important steps that an ind...

Some credit card companies losing faith in borrowers

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 12:48:30 GMT

Individuals who are struggling to find an online car loan because of bad credit are not alone. In the wake of the recession, many consumers are experiencing harsh treatment from certain lending companies.

The New York Daily News reports that even people...

Car shopping and credit checks can be accomplished on your cell phone

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 12:04:10 GMT

Shopping for a new car and checking your credit report is no longer a process that requires multiple trips to a dealer's lot or waiting on hold to speak with a finance agent.

In this age of technological innovations, it is no surprise that the car-buying experience can now be performed ...

Electric cars get top safety marks from independent group

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 11:22:29 GMT

Applying for a bad credit car loan does not mean that consumers have to lower their standards when they're perusing a local dealership.

Regardless of an individual's financial standing, safety should be a top priority. Ca...

The best cars from the New York Auto Show

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 17:34:01 GMT

The 2011 International New York Auto Show took place last week, with automakers showcasing their latest editions of the hottest vehicles on the market. MSN Autos has compiled a list of the best cars that were shown at the annual trade event.

The 2013 Chevrolet Malibu made waves at the show,...

Kia to produce Optima in Georgia facility

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 17:33:38 GMT

Those who are in the market for a Kia Optima may be in luck, as the automaker is planning a surge in production. According to The Associated Press, Kia Motors is seeking to hire more than 700 workers at its West Point, Georgia, facility to manufacture the midsize sedan.

"Kia is experie...

Retail credit cards - are they a good idea?

Fri, 22 Apr 2011 16:47:21 GMT

Home improvement store Lowe's recently announced a new incentive program for customers that pay with store credit cards - it will be offering a 5 percent discount on purchases, according to the Wall Street Journal.

This may seem like a good perk, but it's simply a way to get custome...

Toyota to resume regular production by winter

Fri, 22 Apr 2011 16:46:34 GMT

Those who are looking to use their car loan for a new Toyota may have to wait a few months, as the automaker recently announced that it won't be resuming regular operations until the winter, according to USA Today.

The March 11 earthquake and tsunam...

Nissan Leaf wins World Car of the Year

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 23:21:52 GMT

With skyrocketing gas prices and the annual Earth Day approaching, it's no wonder consumers have been hearing all about the benefits of owning an electric car these days. The Chevy Volt is often the star of the news, however it's time to make some room in the headlines for the Nissan Leaf, which was...

The best cards for bad credit

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 23:14:34 GMT

Those with a nonexistent or poor credit history may find it difficult to secure a car loan, mortgage or other lines of credit, as the banks either can't tell whether you are a great risk to them, or your low FICO score signals a high risk. Luckily, there are various credit cards you can apply for to...

The best moves you can make when buying a new car

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 17:15:11 GMT

Those who are in poor financial standing may have a difficult time securing a car loan, although a bad credit auto loan is a good option. However, CNN recently published a list of the best money moves...

Chevy announces eco-friendly version of the Malibu

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 17:14:12 GMT

Environmentally friendly vehicles may cost a pretty penny, but they are well worth using your car loan on when they ultimately lead to less visits to the gas station, especially with the skyrocketing price of fuel these days. After the Chevrolet Cruze Eco was we...

Gas prices could hit record high next month

Wed, 20 Apr 2011 08:50:04 GMT

Consumers may soon have even more reasons to use their bad credit auto loan for an environmentally friendly vehicle, as USA Today is reporting that gas prices could continue skyrocketing to record highs by Memorial Day weekend.

A...

Rising gas prices lead decline in sales

Wed, 13 Apr 2011 17:23:13 GMT

Gas prices have been on the rise for a while now, making it difficult for borrowers to pay back their car loan now that they have to spend more money at the pump. Many drivers are using their vehicles less in order to save more.

According to USA Today, ...

Edmunds president urges consumers to buy now

Wed, 13 Apr 2011 17:22:44 GMT

There is no time like the present for those with a bad credit auto loan to find the right car - literally. According to USA Today, Edmunds.com suggests that consumers in the market for a new vehicle should head to a dealership as soon as ...

Report shows that economy and luxury cars can compare

Wed, 13 Apr 2011 17:21:38 GMT

Finding the right vehicle to suit your needs can be time consuming and difficult, but there are a number of resources to help make the choice easier. Chances are, if you have a car loan, you probably can't afford a fancy set of wheels, however, several econo...

Kelley Blue Book reveals 2011's greenest cars

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 15:56:52 GMT

Gas prices have been creating a major hole in drivers' pockets as of late. Consumers who want to use their car loan to switch to an environmentally friendly vehicle can look to the automotive appraisal guide Kelley Blue Book (KBB), which recently unveiled it...

Bills propose an end to using credit histories in the hiring process

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 15:56:14 GMT

Though a bad credit auto loan can be a life saver when your financial background is poor, it can also be a factor in deciding whether you are hired for a job. Luckily, there are nearly 50 bills that are attempting to restrict the use of o...

How coupons can pay your car loans

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 18:14:18 GMT

Extreme coupling is quickly catching on in society as we gradually rise up from the worst recession since the Great Depression. Those with bad credit should pay attention, as the process of finding great discounts can save you hundreds of dollars, which will help settle that bad credit auto loan is to go for a fuel-efficient model, which will ultimately help save drivers money with fewer trips to the gas station. Many automakers are toying with variou...

Fed reveals consumer credit rises for fifth straight month

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 16:06:56 GMT

Consumer confidence has seen consistent growth in recent months - the latest reports from the Federal Reserve reveal that consumer credit has increased for the fifth month in a row, signifying strengthening trust in the U.S. economy.

According to Reuters, Americans increasing their outstand...

Child identity theft is more prevalent than one may think

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 18:21:09 GMT

While it can be difficult enough to avoid a bad credit history as an adult, children are virtually helpless against this fate when it comes to identity theft, which is becoming more prevalent these days, MSNBC reports.

"They make perfect targets because they have no records and don'...

Experian glitch temporarily lowers credit scores

Wed, 06 Apr 2011 17:37:12 GMT

A glitch at the credit reporting bureau Experian reportedly led to some consumer's having their credit scores temporarily lowered, in a situation that only serves to further drive home the point of checking your credit score before applying for an auto loan.

MSNBC reports that several u...

The importance of keeping an emergency fund

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 21:27:22 GMT

Credit card debt isn't always the result of irresponsible spending; many times it piles up because of emergencies, such as unforeseen car or medical expenses. One way to avoid having to use your credit card in a pinch is to start saving for an emergency fund.

While you may want to pay o...

Easy ways to have a little more money in your pocket

Thu, 31 Mar 2011 21:51:12 GMT

If you are stuck paying back a bad credit auto loan, chances are you can't afford to to be spending money you don't have. Many times, we incur small charges that we think don't matter that much, but they certainly do add up. H...

Why a hybrid car may not be the best choice

Thu, 31 Mar 2011 21:49:02 GMT

While car buyers may be doing an environmentally conscious thing by purchasing a hybrid vehicle with their bad credit auto loan, the truth is that it's probably doing more damage to your wallet than anything. Assuming most people in p...

What to consider before signing up for a joint credit card

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 22:59:16 GMT

There are certain commitments that couples may went to make, such as getting married, moving in together or another big one - applying for a joint credit card. Before springing for some plastic with both of your names on it, take a few things into consideration.

First, timing is everything....

Snapshot program may help lower monthly insurance payments

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 16:09:04 GMT

When you're paying back bad credit auto loans, you likely can't afford high monthly payments for any of your car-related expenses. Luckily, there is a way to cut costs, as a new program could help drivers lower their insurance premiums by up to $150 annually.

According to USA Today,...

Tax credits provide incentive for purchasing electric cars

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 16:08:33 GMT

Those who are interested in using their car loan for a good cause may ant to look into plug-in electric vehicles, as they may help drivers save thousands of dollars thanks to a 2009 tax credit.

While the hybrid vehicle credit of up to $3,400 expired in ...

The 2011 Chevy Cruze gets rave reviews

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 16:07:39 GMT

Those who are in the market for a brand new vehicle may want to look towards the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze, as MSN Autos recently reviewed the model, calling it the "best small car Chevrolet has ever produced."

This is a particularly attractive notion for those with bad credit auto loa...

Why debt consolidation is not your best bet

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 16:06:58 GMT

When debt is bringing you down and your credit history is taking a major hit, there is always the temptation to consolidate your loans. Sure, a lower monthly payment may seem like the ideal way to climb out of the empty money pit you've dug for yourself, but what are the long-term effects?
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What to consider before buying a new car

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 16:06:24 GMT

While buying a used car is likely the best option for those with a bad credit auto loan, sometimes the smell of a brand new vehicle can be more enticing. If you must have the latest edition of a car, there are a few things to consider, ac...

Certified Pre-Owned vehicles to avoid when car shopping

Thu, 24 Mar 2011 17:50:43 GMT

Those with bad credit auto loans would do well to look for a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicle, as their warranties are manufacturer-guaranteed and they are often as good as newer models. However, some cars are not all they're cracked up to be, and MSN Autos recently highlighted the top CPOs to ...

The risks of mobile banking

Thu, 24 Mar 2011 17:50:16 GMT

As technology continues to advance, more people are turning to their smartphones for convenient business-related mobile applications. For example, many financial institutions have developed programs to allow members to do their banking through their phone. However, the question about this practice&#...

The pros and cons of an electric car

Thu, 24 Mar 2011 17:49:36 GMT

Finding a car loan when you are in poor financial standing can be difficult, which is why you want to use it on a quality set of wheels when you finally do get approved for credit. Electric cars are an attractive option, but there are a few factors to take into ...

The safest cars in the industry

Wed, 23 Mar 2011 17:25:28 GMT

Safety features are of the utmost importance when using your car loan for a new vehicle, especially if you are shopping for a family hauler. With the advancing technology, cars are being made safer than ever, as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration...

Handy tips for dealing with the dealership

Wed, 23 Mar 2011 17:24:42 GMT

Heading to the car dealership can be an intimidating experience, as pushy salesman can often leave consumers with more than they bargained for. However, with a few handy tips from MSN Autos, choosing a car and negotiating will be a breeze.

First of all, avoid any talk about money until you ...

The best cars for your family

Wed, 23 Mar 2011 17:24:04 GMT

Compact cars tend to be the best buys for those with bad credit auto loans, but sometimes you need more space than what smaller models can offer. Consumers with families can still use their car loans on affordable vehicles with the help of MSN Autos, which recen...

Federal Reserve tightens credit reform loopholes

Wed, 23 Mar 2011 17:23:28 GMT

Credit card reform has been working in the favor of those with bad credit history, however, some companies have found - and taken advantage of - the loopholes in the system. Luckily, the Federal Reserve has taken note of the practices and recently approved motions to tighten the current regulations,...

Simple ways to save a little money every day

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 22:07:48 GMT

Those who are trying to pay off their car loans may have a tight budget, and saving some money can seem impossible. However, consumers can avoid spending too much by getting creative with their financial habits.

Do you incur a lot of late fees for your ...

Avoid identity theft while on vacation

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 22:06:41 GMT

The most frightening thing about identity theft is that it can happen to anyone. In fact, millions of people every year report being victimized by an identity thief. According to MSN Money, those who are on vacation are easy targets, but travelers can avoid this problem with these simple tips.
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Toyota emerges victorious in the annual BOVY awards

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 22:05:21 GMT

Each year, car rating website IntelliChoice.com reveals its list of the Best Overall Value of the Year (BOVY) awards. Despite negative news of recalls and dipping market shares, Toyota reigned supreme for the 2011 model year, according to MSN Autos.

Taking home a total of 11 awards out of 2...

Consumers buy Prius, Fit before prices rise

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 22:04:51 GMT

Those with car loans who are in the market for an eco-friendly vehicle should head to a Toyota or Honda dealership as soon as they can, as prices are set to rise thanks to the Sendai earthquake's mass destruction in Japan.

According to USA Today, th...

Are you sure you want to pay off that debt?

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 16:43:18 GMT

Those with bad credit who are in great debt will want to pay off their car loans and mortgages as soon as possible, but sometimes, it may be better to spread out the payments rather than going for it all at once. There are a few things to ask yourself before wri...

Consumer Reports' releases annual automaker ratings

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 16:42:49 GMT

Those who are shopping around for a new vehicle with their bad credit auto loan may want to pay attention to Consumer Reports magazine, as it recently published a list of the best automakers in the industry.

Scores are determined...

Ford's new green plant produces the 2012 Focus

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 15:00:30 GMT

Bad credit auto loan recipients who are in the market for a new car may want to look for one that can do some good for the environment, such as the brand new Ford Focus. The latest edition of the compact car was built in the newly eco-fri...

Mistakes to avoid at the car dealership

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 14:59:43 GMT

Those who are using a bad credit auto loan to buy a new set of wheels most likely can't afford to be squeezed out of every last dime at the car dealership. Luckily, MSN Autos recently published a list of mistakes many people often mak...

Opt for a hybrid to achieve the best fuel efficiency

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 14:59:06 GMT

Those with bad credit loans often do not have that much to spend, so putting the money towards the right car will help consumers avoid the cost of frequent maintenance and repairs in the future. Sustainability website Treehugger.com recently published a list of cars that achieve more than 40 miles p...

Get the most for your money with these inexpensive cars

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 14:58:43 GMT

If you have to take out a car loan, it is best to opt for a vehicle that is low-cost and inexpensive to maintain - the less money spent, the better. Personal finance advice website Kiplinger.com has released a list of "The 10 Cheapest Cars to Own" to h...

The auto industry's best used cars

Thu, 17 Mar 2011 16:48:26 GMT

Those who need a car loan to afford of set of wheels should spend smart, and the best way to do that is by purchasing a used vehicle. The resale price for new cars is knocked down 20 percent as soon as it leave the dealership, so opting for a pre-owned car is th...

A guide to the best certified pre-owned vehicles

Thu, 17 Mar 2011 16:46:14 GMT

After securing a good used car loan, it is important to make the best of your new funds by using it on a well-preserved set of wheels. Consumers should look for a certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicle, which will have a warranty from the manufacturer ensuring its qu...

Dispose of credit cards properly to avoid identity theft

Thu, 17 Mar 2011 16:45:28 GMT

Many people often rid themselves of the temptation to use their credit cards by cutting them up, but not disposing of the remains properly could hurt your financial standing. Identity thieves may potentially search through your trash for the shredded bits, piece together your account number and wrea...

Tips on visiting a used car dealership

Wed, 16 Mar 2011 16:02:52 GMT

Those who receive a used car loan will surely want to make the most out of their credit, which is why it is important to be prepared when heading to the dealership. Follow these simple tips from Consumer Reports in order to find the best used vehicle for you.

How public Wi-Fi can damage your credit score

Tue, 15 Mar 2011 14:20:22 GMT

Getting rid of Internet service is one way that those struggling with making used car loan payments or settling credit card bills can save money, but using a free Wi-Fi connection may not be worth the risk.

Heading to a library or local cafe for the...

Avoid charging your taxes this year

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 16:24:20 GMT

When paying your taxes this year, it may be an enticing option to let your credit card foot the bill. However, this is not a responsible use of credit, unless you are absolutely unable to fund the payment from another account.

Incurring large fees on your credit card will not only boost the...

Major debt may call for lifestyle changes

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 18:53:16 GMT

Sure, there are small ways to save a little extra money to repay your loans, like bringing lunch to work or skipping your next hair appointment, but sometimes consumers need a bigger change in order to make ends meet. There are a number of things you can do to save your hard-earned dollars and put t...

Make your credit card work for you with responsible use

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 18:52:07 GMT

Some people with bad credit may want to cut up their credit cards and eliminate all spending temptations, but the truth is, plastic can be good for your FICO score if used properly. According to a report by TransUnion, one of the three major credit bureaus, more than 8 million people chose to go the...

Handling student debt during financial hardship

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 18:51:05 GMT

The cost of college has risen to astronomical heights, saddling graduates with thousands of dollars in student loans long after they receive their diploma. If you are up to your ears in student debt and struggling to make monthly payments, there are solutions to your financial problems that will pre...

Checking your credit score: Read the fine print

Thu, 10 Mar 2011 20:41:01 GMT

Consumers must realize that it is important to know where they stand financially, as being unaware could have a serious impact on their ability to secure a used car loan, good interest rates, mortgages and more. While everyone is entitled to one free annual cred...

How FICO 08 compares to the original scoring model

Wed, 09 Mar 2011 17:25:10 GMT

The Fair Isaac Corporation, which developed the FICO score that is the most widely used way to determine one's credit ranking, revealed a new model that can more accurately calculate one's financial standing a couple years ago, and it is important to understand what has changed.

The...

Small ways to save money and pay off your debt

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 17:27:23 GMT

Saving money is tough these days, especially for those who are living paycheck to paycheck. But the truth is, there are ways you can cut back without drastically changing your lifestyle, allowing you to save more money to pay off debt so that you better qualify for ...

Build in emergency fund to avoid piling up debt

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 17:27:04 GMT

Often times, consumers who are troubled by debt do not get there by overspending. It can be the result of a medical emergency or any other situation where one needs funds fast, and those unforeseen events can lead to a bad credit score if you are unable to make the credit card payments every month. ...

Military members allowed free access to FICO scores

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 09:13:46 GMT

In an effort to boost financial literacy among the military, members will be allowed free access to their credit scores, the FINRA Investor Education Foundation revealed this week.

Active duty service members and their partners now have the opportunity to learn more about their FICO score, ...

Consumer Reports names best and worst used cars

Thu, 03 Mar 2011 17:03:34 GMT

While some people may be wary about buying a used car, the truth is that it is the best way to make the most of your bad credit auto loan. Some lenders even offer used car loans so that people in poor...

TransUnion reports best credit statistics in 15 years

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 21:46:07 GMT

Credit card users are becoming more responsible with their money, according to a report from TransUnion, one of the three major credit bureaus in the United States. Account delinquency was at a record low, with statistics the bureau has not seen in 15 years, reports DailyMarkets.com.

The Tr...

IRS relaxes tax lien policies to benefit consumers

Wed, 02 Mar 2011 09:40:31 GMT

A tax lien, which is a legal term for money owed on a property or other major asset, could be detrimental to your credit score. This negative information could stay on your credit report for several years, affecting your chances of receiving car loans, mortgages...

Car industry rebound is attributed to more car loans

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 09:15:37 GMT

The car industry seems to be experiencing a revival, with new car sales at an 11 percent increase in 2010. One of the major contributors to this recovery is the similar comeback of bank lenders, as more people are finding it easier to obtain auto loans.

After the economic downturn, the auto...

What the Fair Credit Reporting Act means for consumers

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 09:14:33 GMT

In the past, there have been some questionable practices from various creditors, but luckily, legislators were on consumers' side when they created the Fair Credit Reporting Act. This is a federal law enforced by the Federal Trade Commission that involves the collection of your credit informatio...

Hybrid cars are the best bet for those with a poor credit score

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 09:14:09 GMT

It is a fact of life that cars are expensive, both to purchase and maintain. Those with bad credit history often have trouble getting a car loan, but they may be able to afford a new set of wheels if ...

What the Credit CARD Act does for consumers

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 08:04:43 GMT

Many people with a bad credit history are unfamiliar with the terms of their credit contracts. It is important to read over your agreements to avoid being stuck with unexpected charges. However, in 2009, President Obama signed the Credit ...

How to dispute an item in your credit report

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 08:04:19 GMT

It is important that consumers check their credit reports on an annual basis to ensure that all activity that appears on them is correct. Some people who are responsible with their car loans and other credit accounts could unknowingly have a car loans, mortgages and other types of credit. Howe...

Filing for Chapter 7 bankruptcy protection

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 08:01:29 GMT

Consumers should avoid filing for personal bankruptcy at all costs, as it is a major financial decision that results in a bad credit history and can stay in your records for up to 10 years. However, bankruptcy does happen, and individuals...

The complex nature of family identity theft

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 08:01:01 GMT

Identity theft is a very complicated situation that can leave victims with a bad credit history. It becomes even more complex when the criminal is a loved one. Family identity theft does happen, and there are many ways for it to come abou...

Beware of medical identity theft

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 08:00:26 GMT

When we hear the term "identity theft," we think of someone stealing our bank account numbers of credit card information. This is the most popular form of the criminal act, however, there are other ways for thieves to assume your name, including medical identity theft.

Medical ide...

How to handle a charge-off on your credit report

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 08:00:01 GMT

A charge-off is a serious mark on your credit report that could cause consumers to be denied credit in the future. If you discover this old, unpaid debt in your bad credit history, it is important to settle it as soon as possible. Steve B...

A charge-off may be standing in the way of a good credit score

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 07:59:21 GMT

Many people do not realize that it is still possible to have a bad credit history even if consumers pay their bills on time and use credit responsibly. While recent history may be well and good, it is possible that an old charge-off could...

Hard versus soft credit inquiries

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 07:58:44 GMT

All three credit bureaus know when someone is looking at your financial history. The question is whether or not these inquiries are damaging to your credit report, as many people are under the impression that all inquiries reflect negatively upon the borrower.

Not true. There are two types ...

The various types of credit

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 07:58:01 GMT

Multiple factors of your credit history are considered in the determination of your credit score, with 10 percent taking into account the varying types of credit that you hold. Having a good mix of credit can significantly improve your credit score.

There are four areas in which your accoun...

Bad credit may be the result of public records

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 07:57:21 GMT

Credit scores are based upon a number of factors, including your ability to pay bills on time. This includes all installment loans, revolving credit, utilities and other bills, but even those who keep up with their accounts can be saddled with a bad credit history. How did this happen? It is possible that your score co...

Surprise - Utilities are often included in your credit history

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 18:52:33 GMT

Many people think that their credit score is based off their main credit lines - credit cards, student loans, car loans, mortgages, etc. However, a lot of consumers don't realize that their utilities are often considered in the calculation of their financial...

Never default on a student loan

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 18:51:53 GMT

What many people with a bad credit history do not realize is that your credit score, or FICO score, is not just based on credit card activity. Rather, the final calculation of this figure takes into consideration all lines of credit - inc...

Why canceling a credit card can hurt your FICO score

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 18:51:05 GMT

Consumers with a bad credit history may think that canceling a credit card will help to improve their poor FICO score, but the truth is, eliminating that line of credit may do more damage than you think.

Your credit score is dete...

No credit history is just as effective as bad credit history

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 18:50:24 GMT

When applying for car loans and other credit, the decision to approve your application is largely based on your credit score. The problem is, young people may not have this number, as they have never held any credit in their name. While it is great that they hav...

Bad credit history may be inherited from your parents

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 08:50:10 GMT

In order for new consumers to dive into the world of credit, parents often add their children as authorized users of their credit cards. This is a great way for them to start out, but only if the parents have ideal FICO scores, otherwise they are passing down a bad credit history, but even those who religiously stay on top of their financial game can end up with a low credit score if they don't keep up with their cr...

A low credit score could be the result of identity theft

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 09:04:47 GMT

Since it began gathering data in 1997, the Consumer Sentinel Network has received 5.4 million complaints of identity theft, 1.3 million of which were reported in 2009 alone, according to the Federal Trade Commission. With these kind of statistics, it is important to check your credit reports at leas...

Filing for bankruptcy can destroy your credit score

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 09:04:17 GMT

When major institutions went bankrupt at the beginning of the recession, they received billions of dollars in a government bailout. Personal bankruptcy, however, isn't quite as simple. Those with a bad credit history will make matters...

Repairing your FICO score with secured credit

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 18:14:27 GMT

Because one of the only ways to increase a low FICO score is to use credit properly, consumers are often faced with the paradox of being denied that credit line due to a poor financial history. So how does one boost their score without having access to a major credit card? Look into a line of secure...

What not to do when building your credit score

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 18:12:44 GMT

Bad credit history can affect consumers in many areas of their financial life, making it difficult to secure a car loan, mortgage or money for other big-ticket items. While you are trying to raise you...

Paying rent can now help boost your credit score

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 17:38:09 GMT

A significant portion of one's credit score - 35 percent - is attributed to their ability to pay bills on time. This typically refers to payments on loans, credit cards, mortgages, medical bills and more, with delinquencies on an individual's account resulting in the downfall of his or her s...

Negotiating the price of a new vehicle

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 17:37:48 GMT

While consumers with bad credit history may benefit more from purchasing a used vehicle, that glimmering temptation of a shiny new car can be hard to shake. Those who are set on buying a new set of wheels should keep these helpful tips in...

Tips for buying a used car

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 17:21:44 GMT

Buying a used vehicle is an optimal way to make the most out of car loan, as consumers will have a wide selection of fairly new models with relatively low mileage on the odometer. Choosing the right car can be a daunting task, but making smart moves can help dri...

Don't be swayed by that new car smell

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 17:19:37 GMT

Typically, consumers with bad credit will end up with higher interest rates on car loans than those with better FICO scores, but making smart purchasing decisions can offset the extra cost and even help save money.

The most important thing that consumer...

How buying a car can help improve your credit score

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 17:18:25 GMT

If you've ever seen a fancy car commercial, you've heard the attractive option of leasing the sleek, new vehicle for a fixed price every month. While this may be a viable option a short period of time, drivers who consistently lease new cars are only digging themselves a whole.

If a...

The best ways to raise your credit score

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 23:15:24 GMT

Credit scores range from 300 to 850, with consumers falling into six different ranges. In an ideal world, individuals should aim to score a 760 or higher to find the best deals on car loans, insurance rates and more.

When one has a low credit score, ban...

Where to find your credit score

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 23:13:51 GMT

Managing one's personal finances cannot be effectively done without knowledge of his or her credit score. This number determines nearly all of an individual's financial well-being, therefore it is necessary to keep up-to-date with this pertinent information - but where can it be found?
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The importance of a FICO score

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 23:13:07 GMT

A credit score is one of the most important numbers in one's life and is critical to managing personal finances. This score factors into major purchasing decisions and essentially determines an individual's financial future.

Also known as a FICO score, this figure is used to determi...

Arrange financing in advance

Tue, 15 Feb 2011 18:10:04 GMT

Buying a new or used car can be intimidating, but there are a couple of tactics that can help drivers, even those with bad credit, negotiate a great deal.

Once a buyer has targeted a specific price range for their vehicle, they might want to think about securing their bad credit history might be tempted to accept any credit card willing to have them. But if they're not careful, they can make a tough situation even worse.

CNNMoney recently profiled the story of Toni Riss. A...

Consumer confidence reaches highest level in eight months

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 17:51:37 GMT

Consumer confidence has reached an eight-month high today as decreased unemployment and other factors are slowly helping to turn the economy around.

Bloomberg reports that the Thompson Reuters/University of Michigan consumer confidence index has risen to 75.1 for February, an increase over ...

Study: Toyota electronics not at fault for sudden acceleration

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 17:18:56 GMT

A government study has partially cleared Toyota of fault in cases of sudden acceleration, instead placing blame on drivers and possibly floor mats.

Toyota has admitted that floor mats in some of its models could come loose and trap accelerators, and issued a recall and fixes to address the ...

Increase in credit card use shows consumer confidence

Tue, 08 Feb 2011 22:39:04 GMT

Consumer borrowing on auto loans and credit cards is increasing, which shows improved confidence in the economy's fortitude, according to Business Week. With a better lending environment, those with a bad credit history are able to bo...

TrueCar launches used car pricing tool

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 18:25:48 GMT

Car market research site TrueCar recently announced the launch of a new tool that promises to take the guesswork out of estimating the value of a used vehicle. ClearBook.com will not only allow drivers and dealers to get a clearer, less uncertain picture of the value of any given used car, but will ...

New and used car prices expected to remain stable

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 18:50:32 GMT

The auto industry is gradually recovering from its disappointing performance over the last few years, and sales of new and used cars are expected to climb in 2011.

Economists claim that the slow pace of job creation and lingering unemployment will continue to make many consumers shy away fr...

Hyundai will list monthly fuel efficiency averages

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 18:16:55 GMT

In an attempt to better inform customers about the fuel efficiency of its vehicles, Hyundai Motor Company recently decided to reveal the average fuel economy of the vehicles it sold in a given month.

Fuel efficiency is becoming a more important aspect of automobiles as oil prices fluctuate ...

Manufacturer incentives, used car sales boost car retailer profits

Thu, 03 Feb 2011 18:15:53 GMT

The prevalence of manufacturer incentives has pushed up the profits of the largest auto retailer in the U.S., AutoNation Incorporated. Its fourth-quarter income was up 9 percent from the same period of 2009, Automotive News reports.

Another reason for the retailer's growing profits was ...

Bringing a companion to the dealership may help with negotiation

Wed, 02 Feb 2011 17:15:25 GMT

A one-on-one negotiation with a car dealer can be intimidating, and can influence a driver to make an unwise choice in his vehicle purchase. The main reason for this is that it's often difficult for the future driver of a new car to be fully objective about his purchase - when a potential buyer ...

Auto lenders report profits as car financing demand expands

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 16:49:07 GMT

Ally Financial, a lender majority-owned by the federal government, has reported a profit in the fourth quarter of 2010, largely due to increases in demand for car financing.

Fourth quarter earnings of the home and auto loan provider were...

Credit availability fuels high January car sales

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 16:47:42 GMT

As credit expands and consumer confidence rises, January's car sales may reach levels not seen in 17 months.

Car sales have already been on the rise in previous months, with December's annualized rate reaching 12.6 million - the fastest since the "cash for clunkers" progra...

Credit card rates rise for people with bad credit history

Sun, 30 Jan 2011 12:38:04 GMT

Interest rates on credit cards are nearing record highs, especially for consumers with bad credit history.

According to CNN, this trend is mostly due to the credit card issuers reacting to the restrictions imposed upon them by th...

Buy a Toyota before the end of January to secure steep discounts

Sun, 30 Jan 2011 12:36:48 GMT

Toyota's reliable vehicles were top performers in Consumer Reports' 2011 Car Brand Perception Survey, and drivers with bad credit or tight budgets may be able to get a significant deal on a 2010 Toyota if they take advantage of great deals before the end of the month.

A 2010 Corolla...

Consumer Reports reveals best deals on 2011 Fords

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 15:59:04 GMT

Ford is one of the stars of Consumer Reports' 2011 Car Brand Perception Survey, praised for consistently offering drivers quality, reliability and value. The latter trait may be especially important for consumers with bad credit history

Credit may be easier to obtain for a used car purchase

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 15:01:08 GMT

Drivers with bad credit history may be dismayed to hear the news of banks primarily striving to extend credit to consumers with prime scores, but there is an aspect of this credit market development that benefits drivers looking for a

Auto loan default rates dropped in December

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 16:53:37 GMT

Data released by credit agencies Standard & Poor and Experian indicates that consumers are striving to improve their bad credit history by making debt payments on time and thereby reducing their total obligations.

Default rat...

Hertz to sell used cars directly to dealers

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 16:52:26 GMT

The car rental company Hertz has recently announced that it will launch a "Dealer Direct" website, which will inform dealers of its inventory of used cars and allow them to buy directly from the rental firm.

Dealers will be able to search Hertz's inventory of used rental cars ...

Car loan rates plummet

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 18:24:34 GMT

Those who have been putting off their purchase of a new car during the recession may want to start exploring their car finance options now, since interest rates on auto loans have fallen to lows not seen in years.

The latest weekly Bankr...

GM pledges to improve quality, speed up product development

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 18:21:21 GMT

Mary Barra, the new chief of product development at General Motors, says she plans to transform the company and its product line by boosting quality and speeding up the product development phase to get new models to dealerships faster.

In an interview with The Associated Press, the new exec...

Chevrolet Cruze performs well in safety testing

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 18:19:52 GMT

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has recently tested a new batch of cars under its more stringent and informative five-star safety rating system, and the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze was one of the best performers of the batch.

With a five stars out of five rating for overall perf...

Toyota remains world's largest automaker for third consecutive year

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 18:09:55 GMT

For the third consecutive year, Toyota's worldwide sales exceeded those of any other automaker in 2010, making the manufacturer the largest in the world.

Global sales for Toyota rose 8 percent last year to reach 8.42 million units, according to Bloomberg. General Motors was the second-l...

2010 Kia Forte loved by drivers

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 18:08:47 GMT

Those who bought a 2010 Kia Forte love their car - it was the highest rated sedan under $15,000 on Edmunds that year. Now that the model year is no longer current, drivers with bad credit history may be able to get this reliable vehicle u...

January's retail vehicle sales exceed expectations

Sat, 22 Jan 2011 20:09:16 GMT

Though auto experts expected 2011 to be a strong year for car sales, January's retail figures have already exceeded these optimistic expectations, according to a J.D. Power study.

Using transaction data from more than 8,900 retailers, the organization estimates that this month's ret...

Used car prices may have reached their peak

Sat, 22 Jan 2011 20:07:51 GMT

Though used car sales have been climbing along with their price, there are reasons to believe that consumers with bad credit history in the market for a pre-owned vehicle may still be able to get a deal.

The new cars on display a...

Mitsubishi plans model overhaul

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 16:03:56 GMT

Japanese automaker Mitsubishi is planning a model overhaul that would involve phasing out several models in its current line-up and replacing them with new vehicles.

The Eclipse and Endeavor are expected to be gradually phased out in the next three years, to be replaced with models based on...

Fiat 500s hit dealerships in February

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 16:02:44 GMT

The stylish remake of the classic Italian car, the Fiat 500, is set to hit dealerships in late February of this year, and is priced to be easily affordable with a bad credit loan.

Starting at just above $15,000, these vehicles ma...

Use the internet to your advantage when car-shopping

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 16:01:18 GMT

Drivers in the market for a new vehicle may want to take as many steps as possible over the internet, such as acquiring an online car loan, as this strategy may save them money.

Though acquiring financing and buying a car online may be more convenient a...

Toyota works to recover reputation

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 15:56:04 GMT

The recalls issued by Toyota in 2010 have severely tarnished the automaker's reputation, and the company is currently making efforts to convince the public that it can be relied upon to produce safe automobiles.

One of the recent attempts by Toyota to devote resources to safety research...

Crossovers may out-sell small cars

Wed, 19 Jan 2011 15:54:12 GMT

Though the small car segment of the market may appear to be increasing in popularity, one auto expert claims that the crossover segment is the true rising star to watch.

According to Rebecca Lindland of IHS Automotive, small car sales were actually exceeding those of crossovers in 2007. Sin...

The advantages of getting pre-approved for an auto loan

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 16:19:20 GMT

Though getting a new car and a financing plan from the dealership all at once may sound convenient, such a deal may actually hurt a driver's wallet and cause more confusion than necessary.

While online car loan providers give borrowers an interest r...

New automotive trend: Small, fuel-efficient SUVs

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 16:08:33 GMT

Partially as a response to federal fuel efficiency regulations, automakers have started scaling down their SUV models to produce what some have called "mini-crossovers" - fuel efficient cars that strive to appeal to multiple demographics.

The Nissan Juke is considered by some to b...

More consumers buy new cars in December

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 18:10:48 GMT

Consumer Reports recently released its monthly Retail Index, which indicates what consumers bought last month and what expenditures they plan for this month. The index points out that more consumers bought new cars in December, and many are planning to purchase used cars in January.

Respond...

Kia will post database of certified used cars online

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 18:09:42 GMT

Kia has recently announced plans to make an online database of the certified used vehicles available at the automaker's dealerships, and provide prospective buyers with these cars' vehicle history reports.

The inventories will be listed on AutoTrader.com, and AutoCheck vehicle histo...

Subprime credit card solicitations increase 300 percent since June

Sun, 16 Jan 2011 09:57:11 GMT

Lines of credit were abruptly yanked from consumers with bad credit history during the recession, but there is evidence that such consumers can expect to see more credit card offers in their mailboxes soon.

According to a recent ...

Safety feature being introduced to prevent rollover fatalities

Sun, 16 Jan 2011 09:54:32 GMT

Starting in model year 2013, cars will start to come standard with a new safety feature that is hoped to prevent serious injuries and fatalities resulting from rollover crashes.

The new regulations would apply to light passenger vehicles, and would mandate that automakers develop technology...

Toyota plans to design better looking cars

Sun, 16 Jan 2011 09:53:04 GMT

Following an announcement made by Akio Toyoda, Toyota's president, that the brand's vehicles need to be better-looking, the head of U.S. marketing for the firm stated that developments to remedy the brand's bland exteriors are already underway.

The first Toyota vehicle to be aff...

Traction vs. Stability Control

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 16:27:54 GMT

Developments in auto safety have progressed at a fast pace in recent years, and while this is good news for all drivers, it can take some time to catch up and understand all the new technology that has become available.

The first thing that drivers should know about traction control and ele...

Hyundai Veloster: Fuel efficient and fun

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 16:26:39 GMT

An original three-door design is only one of the many interesting and convenient features of Hyundai's new Volester. According to the automaker, the front design of the vehicle is inspired by the visor of a motorcycle helmet, and its inside center stack is designed to feel like the gas tank of a...

Chevy replaces Aveo with Sonic

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 16:24:56 GMT

At the Detroit Auto Show, Chevrolet unveiled its replacement for the Aveo - a subcompact called the Sonic, which will be available as a four-door sedan or sporty five-door hatchback.

As part of the terms of General Motors' bailout, the new vehicle will be manufactured in the U.S., accor...

Young drivers may have increased access to auto loans

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 18:04:20 GMT

When credit was tight, both consumers with bad credit history and young drivers may have faced increased difficulty in obtaining an auto loan. Young consumers typically do not have a substantial credit history, making them appear risky to...

Hyundai makes dramatic improvements in quality

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 18:02:15 GMT

Among the rising stars of the automotive world, Hyundai stands out for the dramatic improvements it has made from being considered a cheap, disposable car to excelling in reliability testing and receiving various accolades from consumers.

In 2010, the Korean automaker sold 530,000 vehicles ...

Consumer Reports: Chrysler may be making improvements

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 09:29:50 GMT

While other domestic automakers are improving their product line dramatically and enjoying increased sales, Chrysler has not kept pace in recent months. Still, there are signs that it will be catching up to the pack in the near future.

Chrysler vehicles ranked lowest in Consumer Reports'...

Honda has the strongest brand loyalty, survey says

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 09:28:34 GMT

Current Honda drivers are more likely to purchase another Honda in the future than recorded for other major automakers, a Consumer Reports survey found. Approximately 59 percent of current Honda drivers will stick with the brand when it's time for an upgrade. Despite several highly-publicized an...

Most auto manufacturers post sales gains in 2010

Mon, 10 Jan 2011 22:34:34 GMT

Despite a slow economic recovery, most automakers posted sales gains during 2010, with Hyundai and Subaru showing the most year-over-year gains in car sales, at 24 and 22 percent, respectively.

As the economy slowly recovers from the recession and credit expands, many consumers are finding ...

Driver survey: Ford will improve the most in the next 5 years

Mon, 10 Jan 2011 22:33:09 GMT

In a recent survey of nearly 2,000 adult drivers conducted by Consumer Reports, 26 percent of respondents said they expect Ford to be the automaker that will make the most significant improvements in the next five years.

Chevrolet reportedly placed second in the ranking at 19 percent, while...

Hyundai launches telematics system

Mon, 10 Jan 2011 09:24:40 GMT

Hyundai announced it will be introducing the Blue Link telematics system in its model year 2012 Sonatas and Velosters, and eventually to its entire model line.

The Blue Link system will offer similar services to telematics system OnStar, but at what Hyundai claims will be a lower price, acc...

Car and Driver announces best cars of 2011

Mon, 10 Jan 2011 09:23:48 GMT

The automotive magazine Car and Driver has recently announced its picks for the 10 best cars of 2011, and while the list is populated with some luxury cars, including a BMW and a Porsche, it also features a few of the best ...

Interest rates expected to increase for some credit cards

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 09:27:20 GMT

Recent months have seen an expansion of credit, with offers from credit card companies beginning to flood consumers' mailboxes.

The federal credit card reform, which limited the ways companies can profit from borrowers with bad c...

Transferring a credit card balance in 2011

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 09:26:27 GMT

One of the most important steps consumers with bad credit history can take to improve their credit score is to pay off their credit card debt. New developments in the credit card industry promise to make this easier, according to The Asso...

Take advantage of interest rates when paying off debt

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 09:25:45 GMT

Consumers with bad credit history know that interest rates play a large role in making their debt manageable or unwieldy. Many debtors find that what they owe on their credit cards consists of a large portion of interest that they have al...

Higher fuel-economy cars set to hit dealerships this month

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 09:10:03 GMT

Several 2012 vehicle models that are subject to new federal fuel-efficiency requirements are due to arrive in dealerships nationwide starting as early as this month.

These 2012 models are the first to comply with the new, stricter fuel economy standards passed by the National Highway Traffi...

The pitfalls of excessive brand loyalty

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 09:09:18 GMT

Though there are a lot of rational reasons for brand loyalty, simply upgrading one's old car to its new version without additional research may lead to a suboptimal purchase. This is especially true in the case that one's old vehicle is more than a few years old, according to Edmunds.

Test-driving more than one car

Wed, 05 Jan 2011 09:25:07 GMT

One of the biggest mistakes that a car buyer can make is to skip the test drive. Test-driving only one car, however, can also lead to a suboptimal purchase decision, according to Edmunds.

Due to the recession, many drivers held on to their old cars for many years to avoid making a large pur...

Drive On Car of the Year: Hyundai Sonata

Wed, 05 Jan 2011 09:24:24 GMT

The Hyundai Sonata has been named the Car of the Year by thousands of readers polled by USA Today's Drive On.

The midsize sedan won a full 48 percent of the total 4,400 votes. The two electric cars Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Volt received only 5 percent and 23 percent of the votes, respe...

Hondas among the most searched-for used cars on Consumer Reports

Tue, 04 Jan 2011 09:26:01 GMT

Consumer Reports recently compiled a list of the most searched-for new and used cars on the organization's website, and several Hondas were top picks in the used car category.

The Honda Accord, Civic, CR-V and Pilot were four of the top 10 most searched-for used cars. The CR-V was also ...

Choosing the right engine size

Tue, 04 Jan 2011 09:25:10 GMT

The engine size of a vehicle is one of the most important aspects of a car, as it impacts two driving variables that many consumers care about - performance and fuel efficiency.

A general rule of thumb is that smaller engines typically have lower horsepower and torque while boasting higher ...

Complaints about auto defects up

Mon, 03 Jan 2011 09:35:08 GMT

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) received more than 40,000 complaints about auto defects in 2010, according to research by Edmunds.

This figure represents a four-fold increase over the complaints received in previous years, the Chicago Tribune reports. A number of ...

Rising gas prices predicted to lead to decrease in SUV sales

Mon, 03 Jan 2011 09:34:06 GMT

Gas prices reached highs not seen since late 2008, and some analysts predict that the increases are likely to lead to dropping demand for SUVs.

If many SUV owners attempt to trade in their gas-guzzlers in reaction to rising oil prices, dealers may be less willing to pay much for these trade...

Advantages of new cars over used

Mon, 03 Jan 2011 09:33:20 GMT

While the most obvious advantage of a new car compared to a used one is higher quality and more modern features, recently developing market conditions point to a new advantage - new cars may actually be comparatively cheap relative to used cars.

According to Edmunds, the average price of a ...

US oil demand down for good, some experts claim

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 08:09:40 GMT

Demand for gasoline in the U.S. is dropping as prices rise and the government mandates the manufacture of more fuel efficient vehicles, experts say.

Though the initial decrease in gasoline demand in recent years may be partially attributable to the recession, experts believe the trend will ...

Acquiring credit can help a credit score

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 08:08:39 GMT

While the mismanagement of credit can hurt a consumer's credit score, acquiring credit and paying it off can make significant improvements in a consumer's bad credit history.

Credit scores can be improved through the acqu...

Ford to introduce fuel-saving technology in new vehicles

Wed, 29 Dec 2010 09:30:15 GMT

Ford Motor Company recently announced that it plans to expand its Auto Start-Stop technology, first used on hybrid vehicles, to a wider range of cars produced in 2012.

Since fuel efficiency is an important feature of many of the car loans that are at least 60 days delinquent is expected to decrease throughout 2011, according to a recent analysis by credit reporting bureau TransUnion.

Though the delinquency rate rose 9.4 percent between the second and third quarte...

Demand for auto loans predicted to increase

Tue, 28 Dec 2010 09:24:16 GMT

Demand for new cars is expected to rise among consumers with good credit history in 2011, according to credit reporting bureau TransUnion.

Most leases that are set to expire next year are held by drivers with good credit history, and such drivers will either have to purchase the cars they&#...

Negotiating payment wisely at the dealership

Tue, 28 Dec 2010 09:23:13 GMT

One of the best ways for drivers to avoid overpaying or buying add-ons they don't want is to separate the car buying process into three distinct categories - choosing the car, acquiring car financing and negotiating with the dealer.

...

Hyundai and VW earn most IIHS Top Safety Pick awards

Mon, 27 Dec 2010 08:28:59 GMT

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has recently revealed the winners of its 2011 Top Safety Pick awards, and automakers Hyundai/Kia and Volkswagen each had nine models that received the accolades.

General Motors, Ford/Lincoln and Toyota/Lexus/Scion each had eight vehicles rec...

FTC accuses two telemarketing companies of debt-management fraud

Mon, 27 Dec 2010 08:25:13 GMT

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has recently alleged that several debt-management firms, including JPM Accelerated Services and its affiliates, ran a credit card debt relief scam through telemarketing operations.

These companies allegedly made thousands of robo-calls, some in violation o...

Ford and Honda maintain best customer retention

Thu, 23 Dec 2010 08:00:45 GMT

Drivers' stated reasons for remaining loyal to their vehicle brand of choice are shifting with the economic climate, with more drivers citing a brand being fun to drive than in previous years.

Compared to previous years' findings, this year's J.D. Power and Associates Customer R...

CarMax reports rise in used car sales

Thu, 23 Dec 2010 07:58:39 GMT

The used car dealership chain CarMax recently announced that its third-quarter net income for this year rose by 10 percent, indicating increased demand for used vehicles. The chain, which operates more than 100 dealerships nationwide, said its gross revenue rose 23 percent, and that sales at stores ...

The basics of used car pricing

Thu, 23 Dec 2010 07:57:16 GMT

A specific used car will be valued differently depending on the transaction taking place. When a used car is traded in, the seller will get a lower price for the car than the dealer will get upon reselling it, usually because the auto dealership must often spend money to change some faulty component...

Mistakes consumers make when trying to improve bad credit history

Wed, 22 Dec 2010 09:24:40 GMT

Though there is no overnight fix for a bad credit history, many consumers take drastic actions to take control of their finances, and may end up hurting their credit scores in the process.

It may seem wise to ask for a lower cred...

Bad credit history is not a barrier to employment

Wed, 22 Dec 2010 09:23:24 GMT

Consumers with a bad credit history may be dismayed to learn that many states legally allow prospective employers to check job applicants' credit history.

There are certain laws in place to protect the rights of individuals w...

Honda Civic performs poorly in side-crash tests

Tue, 21 Dec 2010 07:57:46 GMT

The latest five-star safety ratings tests performed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reveal shortcomings of the Honda Civic in side-crash safety testing.

The NHTSA has recently performed its crash tests on a batch of vehicles including the Civic, the Chevrolet E...

Chase Bank adopts monthly fees for certain checking accounts

Tue, 21 Dec 2010 07:56:43 GMT

Starting in February of next year, consumers who have a checking account at Chase Bank will have to receive a direct deposit of at least $500 every month or make at least five debit card purchases to avoid a $6 monthly fee. Making several direct deposits totalling $500 or more will not qualify a cus...

Study: Fuel efficiency targets may raise car prices by 20 percent

Tue, 21 Dec 2010 07:55:19 GMT

A recent study by the Center for Automotive Research (CAR) found that car prices could rise by as much as 20 percent if the Obama administration's most aggressive fuel efficiency targets are instituted by regulators.

If the government sets fuel efficiency standards that mandate the aver...

Drivers less concerned with reliability, more concerned with manufacturer reputation

Mon, 20 Dec 2010 09:21:47 GMT

A recent study conducted by JD Power & Associates shows that American drivers have become less concerned with potential reliability problems when purchasing a vehicle.

The study examined the reasons consumers avoid certain models of cars when shopping around for a new vehicle. This year...

Bank of America data indicates consumers are working to repair bad credit history

Mon, 20 Dec 2010 09:20:43 GMT

Bank of America has recently released data that may indicate that consumers are working to repay their credit card debt and repair their bad credit history.

Compared to October's figures, late payments on credit card debt in ...

Why some new cars are cheaper than used cars

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 08:37:32 GMT

Recent news of new cars becoming cheaper than used cars may leave many American drivers confused. Since used cars are depreciated versions of new cars, it seems counterintuitive for them to become more expensive.

According to the Wall Street Journal, the high prices of used cars relative to...

Late payments on credit reports

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 08:31:17 GMT

Consumers who have a late payment on their credit history often try to dispute the item with banks and credit bureaus. While the traditional dispute process exists for borrowers who find inaccurate items on their report, banks will typically not be willing to remove a late payment that actually occu...

Consumers continue to experience financial insecurity, study finds

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 08:30:17 GMT

Despite some preliminary indicators of a more favorable credit market, more hiring, decreasing consumer debt and other signs of an economic recovery, Americans are reporting feeling more financial insecurity than they did one year ago.

According to Bankrate's Financial Security Index, a...

Ford Fiesta: Popular for a reason

Thu, 16 Dec 2010 08:20:24 GMT

Among the most popular subcompacts sold in America, the Ford Fiesta is one of the best cars for bad credit.

Many drivers with less-than-stellar credit may be dismayed by the recent electric car trend. Such vehi...

Lenders start to look beyond credit scores

Thu, 16 Dec 2010 08:17:47 GMT

Drivers with bad credit history know how difficult it is to get a loan with favorable terms, but such consumers may be pleased to know that the credit market has recently started to expand again following the financial crisis. Not only is...

Repaying credit card debt a popular New Year's resolution

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 09:38:57 GMT

Though many American consumers are feeling the financial pinch of the holiday season, they are also feeling optimistic about their finances in the coming year, according to a study conducted by the financial services firm Principal Financial Group. The most recent Principal Financial Well-Being Inde...

Survey reveals most, least financially literate states

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 09:37:53 GMT

A recent survey conducted by the FINRA Foundation indicates that financial literacy among U.S. consumers is highly varied depending on demographic group and geographic area of residence.

Certain states, including New York, New Jersey and New Hampshire, were found to house the most financial...

Consumers reducing debt, improving credit scores

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 09:36:28 GMT

A new report issued by the New York Federal Reserve indicates that U.S. consumers are gradually paying off their debt. The report indicates that consumer debt has steadily decreased for the past seven quarters and has dropped a full $992 billion from its highest point, Fox Business reports.

Don't buy a new car in a hurry

Tue, 14 Dec 2010 09:33:37 GMT

Faced with tightening budgets, many Americans consumers put off making large purchases until they truly need to. While this financial habit can be very helpful in avoiding unnecessary impulse purchases that drain a family's disposable income, it can actually be very damaging when applied to an a...

Bad credit car loans becoming more readily available

Tue, 14 Dec 2010 09:32:50 GMT

Drivers with bad credit are getting car loans with increasing ease as the credit market loosens up and lenders regain confidence.

The percentage of auto loans going to bad credit drivers rose 8 percent in the third quarter of 2010, according to data iss...

Car sales predicted to gradually rise

Mon, 13 Dec 2010 09:37:01 GMT

Last year saw just 8.6 million new car purchases, approximately half of the record for yearly sales in this decade. Sales this year appear to be growing, however, and will most likely reach 11 million, according to research conducted by J.D. Power and Associates.

The last two months have se...

Consumer Reports: Don't fall for the Fuel Doctor FD-47

Mon, 13 Dec 2010 09:34:38 GMT

The Fuel Doctor FD-47 is a small device that plugs into a car's 12-volt power outlet and promises to reduce emissions while increasing a vehicle's fuel efficiency. It claims to be able to boost fuel efficiency by as much as 25 percent through what the manufacturers refer to as "power co...

Silver and black most popular car colors

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 09:54:30 GMT

In a preference shift that may reflect the uncertain, financially-troubled mood of the present, neutrals like black and silver were found to be the most popular vehicle colors.

According to a DuPont survey, silver is the leading vehicle color in the world, with silver vehicles representing ...

Important information about gift cards this holiday season

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 09:53:34 GMT

Gift card giving and receiving is likely to leave few American consumers untouched this holiday season, as the National Retail Federation estimated that a full $25 billion of spending will be generated through gift cards this holiday season.

There's good news regarding this gift-giving ...

Consumer Reports names worst credit card in America

Thu, 09 Dec 2010 09:25:30 GMT

There is a certain class of credit cards that are marketed towards consumers of limited financial means or those with bad credit history, and such cards are often laden with hidden fees.

According to Consumer Reports, the worst o...

Shopping around for the best store card

Thu, 09 Dec 2010 09:23:06 GMT

Consumers who are trying to be smart in planning their finances typically shop around for credit card offers and select the one most suitable for their spending needs. Since many Americans have store credit cards, understanding the differences between various kinds of store cards may also be benefic...

Checks to perform before buying a used car

Thu, 09 Dec 2010 09:21:52 GMT

Buying a used car can undoubtedly be more difficult than buying a new car, as it involves more research, precautions and risks. The payoff to buying a quality used car, however, may be worth it to those with financial troubles or bad credit h...

Demand for low-priced used cars rises

Wed, 08 Dec 2010 09:51:39 GMT

As the recession has prompted many Americans to tighten their purse-strings, many consumers are starting to reconsider the possibility of purchasing a low-priced used car.

According to AOL News, car dealerships have reported increases in used car sales of anywhere from 20 percent to 35 perc...

Best cars for teens

Wed, 08 Dec 2010 09:50:32 GMT

Though a teenager who has recently acquired a driver's license may dream of a red sports car, parents who decide to buy their teenager a vehicle may want to consider other factors.

Since teenagers are typically the most inexperienced of drivers, buying a vehicle that tops safety ranking...

One in seven Americans can't pay bills for the first time in their lives

Wed, 08 Dec 2010 09:47:15 GMT

A recent study conducted by the accounting and consulting firm Deloitte found that one in seven Americans had difficulty paying their bills for the first time in their lives. A full 11 percent of Americans recently got a taste of problems like medical bills, credit card bills and even unaffordable t...

Study: Holiday spending debts may spill over into next year

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 09:41:46 GMT

Recent data released by online payment website eBillMe indicates that 5 percent of Americans are still paying off their 2009 holiday expenses. Furthermore, only 39 percent of the website's survey respondents say that they managed to pay off their 2009 holiday bills by March of 2010.

Suc...

Gas prices expected to rise during holiday season

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 09:38:02 GMT

Following a series of issues at refineries that raised the prices of gasoline futures, many analysts expect gasoline prices to rise in time for the holiday season.

Gas prices may climb to as high as $2.90 a gallon towards the middle of December before slowly starting to fall again, the Asso...

Consumer Reports advises against the 2011 Mazda 2

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 09:48:03 GMT

The Mazda 2 subcompact has recently been introduced into the U.S. market after having had moderate success in Japan and Europe.

While the Mazda 2 may seem like one of the best cars for bad credit, there are a n...

Leasing vs. buying a vehicle

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 09:41:49 GMT

The decision of whether to buy or lease a vehicle can be very important, and drivers may want to consider all the benefits and disadvantages of both options before making their decision.

Those who feel they cannot afford to put a large amount of money down may be drawn to the idea of leasin...

Bad credit scores are not a barrier to a new car purchase

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 09:40:13 GMT

Consumers with a bad credit history who apply for financing at traditional lending institutions are often likely to get their loan application rejected. Thankfully, such a rejection does not have to mean a new car purchase is impossible f...

Doing research before arriving at the dealership

Fri, 03 Dec 2010 10:13:40 GMT

There are certain mistakes that are common to many consumers who buy a new car at a dealership, and these mistakes can often cost a driver money, time, and could lead to a suboptimal purchase. Most of these mistakes can be avoided with a little bit of research conducted before going to the dealershi...

Stability control is now standard on the 2011 Honda Fit

Fri, 03 Dec 2010 10:12:11 GMT

Honda has recently announced new standard and optional features for its 2011 Honda Fit. Among the most crucial additions to the car's standard features is stability control, according to Consumer Reports.

The Fit, a popular city car that has been praised for being fun and functional, is...

'Kardashian Kard' withdrawn after attracting criticism

Thu, 02 Dec 2010 09:35:30 GMT

The 'Kardashian Kard,' a prepaid debit card targeted to young adults, has recently dropped out of the market after the Connecticut Attorney General spoke out against its many hidden fees.

The Kardashian sisters, well-known reality television stars, were associated with the card and ...

Buying a car in its first year of production

Thu, 02 Dec 2010 09:34:30 GMT

Many drivers in the market for a new vehicle may follow rules of thumb passed around through word of mouth, but not all of these commonly-used rules have a basis in facts.

According to Edmunds.com, many car buyers fear buying a new vehicle in its first year because they anticipate that any ...

Understanding minimum payments

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 09:48:27 GMT

A crucial aspect of credit cards to understand for consumers to avoid decreasing their credit score and accruing unnecessary debt is the difference between a total amount due and a minimum payment.

Since both figures typically appear on a credit card statement, many debtors confuse the two....

Financial habits that breed the temptation to spend

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 09:36:18 GMT

For consumers trying to improve a bad credit history, temptations to overspend can be difficult to resist. According to MSN, there are a number of financial habits that may increase a consumer's predisposition to impulse shopping.

Advantages of manual transmission vehicles

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 09:35:28 GMT

Manual transmission vehicles are typically outsold by automatic cars in the U.S., yet there is debate among drivers about whether the added control in driving such a vehicle is worth the extra effort required of the driver's left foot.

There is evidence that manual transmission vehicles...

Avoiding debit card skimming scams

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 09:34:28 GMT

Consumers who have high debts and are working to repair a bad credit history may be tempted to start making more purchases with their debit card than with credit cards. This can be a smart financial decision, as credit cards can have the ...

Cashing out annuities to pay off debt

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 09:29:23 GMT

Consumers with bad credit history may be tempted by television advertisements for companies that promise to allow a debtor to cash out an existing annuity to finance medical bills, debts or any other expenses for which they need cash imme...

Hidden dangers of No Pre-Set Spending Limit credit cards

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 09:28:05 GMT

One common type of credit card that is offered is known as a No Pre-Set Spending Limit (NPSL) card, which do not have an explicitly-stated credit limit, and consumers usually do not know how much credit they have available at any given time.

These cards do have a credit limit, according to ...

Survey shows sky-high interest rates on store credit cards

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 09:26:43 GMT

U.S. Representative Anthony Weiner of New York's Queens and Brooklyn has recently released a study which finds that many store credit cards carry interest rates far higher than those of conventional credit cards.

The study, which samples credit cards from 25 major New York City retailer...

Benefits and hidden costs of cash-back credit cards

Wed, 24 Nov 2010 08:15:30 GMT

Consumers with bad credit history or a large debt may want to make use of their credit cards in the most efficient and cost-effective way. One common type of credit card that many consumers favor is the cash-back card, which gives consume...

Pros and cons of buying a certified pre-owned vehicle

Wed, 24 Nov 2010 08:13:29 GMT

The used car market has improved in recent years due to the wealth of information that helps distinguish quality used cars from "lemons." One very important driving force of used car market improvements is the Certified Pre-Owned designation.

The main benefit of purchasing a certi...

Survey indicates drivers want fuel efficiency, but don't want to pay extra

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 10:07:47 GMT

A recent survey conducted by Consumer Reports indicates that drivers rank fuel efficiency highly as a factor they consider when purchasing a vehicle, but many cite high prices as a deterrent in buying such a car.

In the survey, 80 percent of respondents claimed to support a national goal to...

Study: Dealer treatment more important than price in new car purchases

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 10:06:19 GMT

The most recent J.D. Power and Associates 2010 U.S. Sales Satisfaction Index (SSI) Study indicates that the average new car buyer ranks dealer treatment as more important than price in determining which dealership he will purchase his vehicle from.

According to the study, 52 percent of new ...

Best vehicles for older drivers

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 13:16:16 GMT

The best vehicles for older drivers are designed to address common driving discomforts, visibility problems and other factors that can affect an older person's driving ability.

Comprehensive safety features, including front and side airbags and excellent crash test safety ratings, are i...

What to consider before co-signing on a loan

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 13:15:23 GMT

A co-signer on a loan has certain rights and responsibilities that he must consider before making the important decision.

A co-signer could end up with bad credit history if the other borrower defaults on the loan, according to t...

What 'gold' and 'platinum' credit cards to avoid

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 09:25:25 GMT

Consumers often receive gold and platinum credit card offers in the mail that promise to improve their credit, save them money or otherwise better their financial situation. Many of these offers are disingenuous, however, and it may benefit consumers to know what to watch out for.

Such card...

What to consider when choosing a road-trip vehicle

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 09:24:30 GMT

Drivers who are in the market for a car that they plan to take on lengthy road trips may be considering a variety of factors related to the vehicle's safety, comfort and reliability.

One of the first trade-offs to consider is the vehicle's comfort and how it relates to its fuel effi...

Auto sales increase in California

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 09:31:23 GMT

Despite a high unemployment rate in California, some auto dealers are beginning to see car sales increase.

According to AppealDemocrat.com, the U.S. Commerce Department said that auto sales increased 5 percent nationwide in the month of October. In Northern California, car sales in the firs...

Who can view a consumer's credit report?

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 09:30:28 GMT

Consumers may already know that they are entitled to a free credit report every 12 months from each of the three credit reporting agencies, but some may not be aware of who can see if they have bad credit history and under what circumstan...

How to get the most from a credit card

Wed, 17 Nov 2010 09:33:23 GMT

Drivers with bad credit history or substantial debts may be interested in knowing how to make use of the benefits of their credit cards while avoiding common pitfalls associated with using credit.

Though it's often difficult ...

Recognizing credit repair scams

Wed, 17 Nov 2010 09:32:00 GMT

Individuals with bad credit histories may be looking for a fast fix to improve their credit reports. Many services promise to clean up a credit history overnight, but may not deliver on their promises or worse, may push a consumer to commit fraud through unethical business practices.

If a c...

Federal Reserve unveils online guide to consumer credit

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 09:35:13 GMT

The Federal Reserve has recently published an online resource aimed to answer common consumer questions about credit scores, credit ratings and credit reports.

The guide explains in simple terms what a credit score is, what purpose it serves in the lending market and how consumers can make ...

Honda Fit: Fun and Reliable

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 09:34:17 GMT

For around $15,000, a driver can get one of the most popular subcompacts to appear in the market in recent years, the 2010 Honda Fit.

According to AOL Autos, the Fit has the advantage of a very practical use of interior and exterior space. Though it's small and maneuverable, the Fit is ...

Exercising discretion during the negotiation process

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 09:33:43 GMT

Drivers in the market for a new car know that car dealer interaction of some kind will be necessary before they can acquire their new vehicle. No matter how intimidating and stressful such interactions can be, there are a few simple steps to take to protect one's finances and obtain a good deal,...

The newest air bag technology: what drivers need to know

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 09:32:34 GMT

Laws mandate that every new vehicle must be equipped with dual front air bags, but the safety and technological complexity of air bags depends on both vehicle year and model.

The most modern air bag technology uses electronic sensors to release air bags quickly, slowly, or not at all, accor...

Electronic stability control: A crucial safety feature for larger vehicles

Fri, 12 Nov 2010 09:44:05 GMT

Electronic stability control (ESC) is one of many safety features being adopted by auto manufacturers. ESC's main purpose is to keep a vehicle on its path during a corner and prevent it from rolling over or skidding, according to Consumer Reports.

The technology detects when a vehicle b...

How the insurance industry conducts crash tests

Fri, 12 Nov 2010 09:41:21 GMT

In addition to crash tests performed by the government, the insurance industry has its own crash test safety rating system. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) tests are similar to those performed by the government, but have a few notable differences.

IIHS primarily cond...

Negotiating off the sticker price can be a bad idea

Fri, 12 Nov 2010 09:39:54 GMT

Many drivers in the market for a new or used vehicle make the mistake of negotiating off the sticker price listed for the vehicle. According to Consumer Reports, negotiating down from the sticker price can be a dangerous financial decision, because a driver may interpret any offer below sticker pric...

Ways to avoid falling for the wrong car

Fri, 12 Nov 2010 09:37:49 GMT

Drivers with financial difficulties or bad credit history, families, or those that need their cars for a specific kind of travel may need to be more practical when choosing the perfect vehicle for their needs, but no buyer is immune to th...

Buying a used car with a trade-in

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 16:47:39 GMT

Many drivers who are in the market for a new vehicle would like to trade in their old one, but may not know where to start in assessing the value of their current vehicle and figuring out what kind of budget to set for a new one.

To thoroughly evaluate the value of a used car, drivers can c...

The most and least ticketed cars

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 16:46:22 GMT

Auto insurance analytics firm Quality Planning recently did a study to determine which cars received the most moving violations, were driven in a dangerous manner and were likely to receive higher auto insurance premiums.

The cars that top the list include Mercedes Benz SL-class, Toyota Sol...

2011 Suzuki Kizashi a Consumers Digest Best Buy

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 08:58:43 GMT

The 2011 Suzuki Kizashi was recently named a Consumers Digest Best Buy in the "Family Cars" category.

According to a Suzuki press release, more than 250 models were reviewed along more than 10 categories, including styling and amenities, safety ratings, ergonomics, warranty, comfo...

Cancelling a credit card or closing an account can hurt credit scores

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 08:57:13 GMT

Many individuals with bad credit history are trying to improve their credit by making smart financial decisions, but not every factor that comprises a credit score is necessarily easy to understand or alter.

Many people think clo...

How to avoid buying a flood-damaged car

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 08:55:52 GMT

Vehicles that have been damaged in floods are not as easy to identify as it may seem, since such vehicles' titles are often changed, and they are shipped to be sold to other states after some superficial body work is performed to conceal the flood damage. There are tip-offs that a buyer can look...

Comparing vehicle history reports

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 09:49:54 GMT

There are currently three main vehicle history report generating services in the market: VinCheck, Carfax and AutoCheck. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, and determining which are of greater use to a potential used car buyer can be helpful.

VinCheck is free but very limited in sco...

How to negotiate wisely with a professional dealer

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 16:51:17 GMT

Negotiating with a professional auto dealer can be a stressful experience, and many consumers choose to purchase their vehicles through private transactions in part to avoid it. However, negotiating with persistent dealer can be far less stressful if a consumer follows a few simple guidelines.
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Steps to take before buying a used car from a private party

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 16:48:16 GMT

After a consumer has picked out the used car he would like to purchase and taken it for a test drive, it may seem like the next logical step to take is to start the negotiation process and finish the transaction. However, there may be other steps that a driver should take to protect his finances, es...

What to look for when test driving a used car

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 16:47:15 GMT

Test driving a used car is an important step of the process of choosing the right vehicle. It may be important to pay attention to every small detail that might signal more serious problems later in the life of the vehicle.

According to Edmunds.com, starting the engine when it is completely...

Buying a used car from a private seller

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 16:46:11 GMT

Many drivers feel more secure in buying their used vehicle from a dealership, and may be uncomfortable with the open-endedness of a private transaction. There are, however, a few simple steps a consumer can take to avoid being overcharged or buying a defective vehicle.

Once a driver finds t...

How to buy a used car: private transaction vs. dealership

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 09:39:46 GMT

People who are in the market for a used car may find themselves confused by all the different channels through which a consumer can buy a used car. The most common ways used cars are bought, according to Edmunds.com, is through private party transactions, on independent used car lots and on the used...

Affordable convertible: The 2003 Saab 9-3

Mon, 08 Nov 2010 16:44:14 GMT

Consumers who have a bad credit history and are in the market for a used car may be under the impression that their options are very limited, but there may be a great deal more choice for them than they realize.

The 2003 Saab 9-3...

Used cars that should probably be avoided

Mon, 08 Nov 2010 09:37:29 GMT

One of the difficulties of purchasing a used car is the uncertainty a buyer has about its history. A vehicle that performs well on a test drive and looks to be in near-perfect condition may still have the equivalent of a time bomb under the hood, and it's often difficult to know which vehicles a...

What to watch out for when buying a used car

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 15:47:31 GMT

Even with vehicle history reports and the wealth of information that exists about the values of various makes and models of used cars, it can still be nerve-wracking for a driver to shop for a used car for fear of buying a "lemon." According to Car and Driver Magazine, however, there are a...

Luxury for cheap: The 2003 Infiniti G35 Sedan

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 15:46:12 GMT

Many drivers with bad credit may be under the impression that their choice of vehicle must be utilitarian and practical, compromising on a luxurious look. This is not necessarily the case, as the 2003 Infinity G35 Sedan shows.

The sleek sedan has the appearance of a luxury vehicle with a fe...

Red cars found to be the most discounted

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 15:44:14 GMT

A recent study by TrueCar.com found that people who bought red cars received the greatest discounts off the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP).

The study analyzed the pricing of green, red and silver cars. It took the top 10 cars for each color and compared the average discoun...

Fuel economy: is a hybrid really worth it?

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 15:43:04 GMT

When individuals with bad credit or financial troubles decide to buy a car, they might be tempted to spend a lot of energy considering short-term versus long-term costs. For example, a hybrid vehicle requires a large expenditure in the short run, but common wisdom holds that it will surely "pay...

Why buying a used car may be a good idea

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 08:32:22 GMT

It is often said that a new car depreciates significantly the moment a buyer drives it off the lot. According to Edmunds.com, it may depreciate as much as 11 percent of its original value. While this is bad news for new car buyers, it is good news for those who are in the market for a used car, as i...

Automobile insurance claims satisfaction declines from last year

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 08:30:43 GMT

The J.D. Power and Associates 2010 U.S. Auto Claims Satisfaction study was recently released and indicates a decrease in customer satisfaction with the automobile insurance claims process relative to 2009, but an increase from 2008 levels, Edmunds.com reports.

According to the study, the ma...

Hyundai Elantra may be a good bet for those seeking a used car

Thu, 04 Nov 2010 15:28:16 GMT

Many individuals with financial troubles are currently in the market for a used car, and may be especially concerned about the car's performance and reliability.

In both aspects, the 2008 Hyundai Elantra may be a good bet. It sells for about $9,000 to $12,000, which makes it affordable ...

Insurance and how it depends on credit scores

Thu, 04 Nov 2010 15:14:06 GMT

Consumers with bad credit history may be very familiar with the various negative ways this can affect their lives. In many states, one relevant way bad credit can harm an individual is through his auto insurance, since insurers often use ...

Honda Civic EX loses rating due to lack of safety feature

Wed, 03 Nov 2010 14:59:16 GMT

The Honda Civic EX scored a big win in Consumer Reports' annual reliability survey, with drivers naming it as the most reliable small car on the road. Yet the company who runs the survey isn't too keen on the vehicle.

Consumer Reports has announced that it will remove the Civic EX&#...

Key difference between credit score and credit report

Wed, 03 Nov 2010 14:58:49 GMT

Many consumers know that they are entitled to one free credit report a year, supplied by the federal government. Yet many also falsely assume that this is a chance to check their credit score - it isn't.

A credit report will give a detailed description of missed payments, defaults, and ...

Resale value should play a role in vehicle purchasing

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 18:06:12 GMT

When a driver is on the lot and negotiating with a dealer, their focus is typically on the overall price that's in front of them. Yet a car's eventual resale value is an extremely important factor that should not be left out of the conversation.

Drivers who plan ahead can end up sav...

Holidays can damage credit score

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 18:05:25 GMT

The holiday shopping season is coming up, and if the trends this year follow last season, consumers will likely spend more than they bargained for.

A Consumer Reports poll taken last year revealed that consumers with credit cards charged $180 more than they originally anticipated. In a sepa...

Co-signing is a big decision

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 18:05:00 GMT

For the past several years, credit card companies have been targeting college students, signing up customers with a penchant for spending and poor understanding of credit.

The federal government eventually stepped in, passing the CARD Act, which restricts credit card companies' ability ...

Co-signing is a big decision

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 18:05:00 GMT

BMW E30 is a fun car to drive

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 18:04:38 GMT

Just because a driver is on a bad credit car loan doesn't mean that they don't have to sacrifice the joys of driving.

In fact, if drivers shop on the used car market for some older vehicles, they can often find fun cars t...

Ride a classic Jeep Wrangler

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 18:04:11 GMT

Drivers with a bad credit car loan usually must stick to a strict budget. That means they often have to miss out on many of the "fun" vehicles - unless they shop the used market.

Popular Mechanics recently looked at som...

Down payments are helpful

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 11:40:27 GMT

Nobody likes down payments. It's true that forking over a ton of dough in order to pay for a car is not a great feeling. Many dealerships will advertise cars for "no money down," and this is usually an attractive offer. That's because many buyers like the instant gratification of d...

Down payments are helpful

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 11:40:27 GMT

Loyalty programs can mean savings

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 11:39:25 GMT

There are a number of negotiation strategies for consumers who are in the market for a new vehicle, and some of these can be very effective in lowering the price of a vehicle. Yet there are also a few tactics that will work no matter how flexible the dealer is with the price.

One of these i...

Study to assess credit report accuracy

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 11:38:51 GMT

The existing credit system has been in place for years, with many not really questioning the methods used to assess a credit risk. That's why Congress and the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recently commissioned a study to examine just how accurate credit reports really are.

Inside...

Study to assess credit report accuracy

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 11:38:51 GMT

Pontiac's death could mean big savings

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 11:38:10 GMT

After 84 years, the Pontiac brand ended on October 31st. That could mean a number of deals for drivers with a bad credit car loan.

The last Pontiac rolled off the assembly line one year ago, but dealers' contracts with Genera...

Pontiac's death could mean big savings

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 11:38:10 GMT

Suzuki issues recall for SX4 crossover

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 11:37:49 GMT

Suzuki is recalling approximately 70,000 SX4 crossovers and sedans due to an issue with the side mirrors, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The agency reports that natural vibration can eventually loosen the three screws that hold the mirror in place. Over tim...

Suzuki issues recall for SX4 crossover

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 11:37:49 GMT

Type of car can influence insurance

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 11:37:07 GMT

When shopping for a new car, drivers have a number of costs and factors to keep in mind. One that often gets overlooked is the effect that a particular make or model will have on insurance premiums.

It may be just a few dollars a month, but over the life of a car, added insurance rates can ...

End of the month is a great time to buy

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 17:43:42 GMT

Almost every car dealership commercial seems to end with the phrase "now is a great time to buy." This vague proclamation doesn't really help the buyer, as they don't really know why it's a good time to make a purchase.

According to Cars.com, right now really is a good...

Domestics moving up in reliability

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 17:43:06 GMT

For many years, domestic brands like General Motors and Ford were considered to be inferior vehicles to the cars made in Japan and Europe. Yet since the economic recession, Detroit automakers have gotten serious about improving quality and turning America's fortunes around.

In their rec...

Domestics moving up in reliability

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 17:43:06 GMT

Dealer deposits can be tricky

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 17:42:47 GMT

One of the top pieces of car loan advice is that once a buyer has settled on a car is to wait. On the lot, a salesman is always going to attempt to pressure a customer into a quick decision, and this is where dealers can make a lot ...

Yaris tops in reliability survey

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 17:42:26 GMT

Consumer Reports has released the results of their 2010 Annual Auto Survey, which asks drivers to detail any problems that they've had with their vehicles. Once the data is compiled, the report gives a clear picture of some of the most reliable models on the market and a few of the ones to watch...

Hyundai, Kia perform well in reliability survey

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 17:42:03 GMT

They may not be the flashiest vehicles on the road, but it's hard to argue with data. For drivers who simply want to get from point A to point B, Hyundais and Kias are some of the most reliable cars on the road.

Hyundai was formerly the go-to brand for drivers on a budget, but the autom...

Independent mechanic should verify any used car purchases

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 17:41:36 GMT

Sometimes, drivers with bad credit are intimidated once they get on the lot and begin the car-buying process. They may not have the in-depth knowledge of automobiles and mechanics that they think will allow them to negotiate the best deal.

When buying a used car, spotting potential trouble ...

Bad credit? A credit union could be the answer

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 17:41:13 GMT

Buyers with bad credit may be discouraged once they're turned down for a car loan. Yet many consumers don't exhaust all their options when it comes to lending sources.

For example, many people are qualified to join a credit union and don't know it. While a bank works to maximize...

Colleges, credit card companies colluded on student accounts

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 18:08:56 GMT

For the past several years, some of the credit card companies' best customers have been young students who opened up cards without really understanding how credit works. This left many overspending students with bad credit histories before they had even left school and applied for a mortgage or ...

Colleges, credit card companies colluded on student accounts

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 18:08:56 GMT

CFPB hire has lending ties

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 18:08:31 GMT

People with bad credit have largely welcomed the new Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) created by the latest financial reform bill, as the new watchdog agency is set up to protect borrowers from loan sharks and other fraudulent companies while regulating the lending industry as a whole.

Mazda2 named to Car of the Year shortlist

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 18:07:57 GMT

The nominees for the Car and Truck of the Year are in, but drivers with low credit scores are most likely wondering which models are the best cars for bad credit buyers.

A number of luxury cars made the list th...

Beware debt settlement

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 18:07:35 GMT

Consumers who are in debt have likely received several offers from companies claiming that they can reduce their payments and use consolidation tactics to make them pay less.

According to the Detroit Free Press, these promises are often too good to be true. Consumers need to watch out for t...

Can unpaid parking tickets hurt a credit score?

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 10:30:40 GMT

Those who often park in a private lot have likely forgotten to pay once or twice, only to find a parking ticket waiting for them when they get back to their car. But can these tickets end up affecting one's credit report?

The short answer is no. Unlike utility companies or credit cards,...

Scion named most reliable brand by Consumer Reports

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 10:30:20 GMT

The results of Consumer Reports' Annual Reliability Survey are in, and the most reliable brand is a bit of a surprise.

Toyota's image has been marred by a wave of recent recalls, but that didn't stop its youth-oriented Scion brand from being named the most reliable brand on the ...

Prepare in advance for employers checking credit reports

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 10:29:48 GMT

For many with a bad credit history, getting back on the right track can be stressful. It doesn't help that in today's competitive job environment, those applying for a new position may find their credit score checked along with th...

Older consumers filing for bankruptcy

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 10:54:13 GMT

Many assume that consumers who get into trouble with debt and bad credit are younger. But the recession has meant that more older Americans nearing retirement age are being forced to file for bankruptcy.

According to USA Today, bankruptcy rates among the elderly have skyrocketed over the pa...

Poor timing can lead to high credit utilization rate

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 10:27:52 GMT

Credit can be confusing, especially once terms like "utilization rate" get thrown into the mix. Yet this factor is extremely important for some lenders when evaluating a consumer's credit.

One confused consumer recently wrote into the New Jersey Star-Ledger after being denied ...

Bad credit borrowers must remain disciplined despite high-tech credit cards

Fri, 22 Oct 2010 16:22:58 GMT

Consumers have carried around plastic credit cards in their wallets for years, but some new advances in technology may be bringing the cards into the 21st century.

Citibank has plans to introduce a new design for their card that embeds a computer chip, battery and two buttons on the front. ...

Chrysler to introduce new V-6 engine

Fri, 22 Oct 2010 16:22:31 GMT

Chrysler will debut its new Pentastar V-6 engine across 13 vehicles, as new technological advances have allowed the company to develop a more efficient and more powerful engine.

The first car to receive the new Pentastar is the 2011 Dodge Challenger, which will see its horsepower boosted by...

2011 Jetta has special introductory offer

Thu, 21 Oct 2010 16:54:08 GMT

When many consumers are looking to save money, they tend to stick to what's on sale. This attitude doesn't usually transfer over to car buying, but taking advantage of limited time offers can save drivers a lot of money in the long run.

For example, drivers who act quickly can take ...

Toyota recalls 740,000 vehicles in the U.S.

Thu, 21 Oct 2010 16:53:41 GMT

Toyota has been in hot water recently due to systemic problems with unintended acceleration in a number of their vehicles. In fact, the automaker has recalled over 10 million vehicles in the past year stemming from both this problem and other issues.

The automaker's recent efforts to re...

S&P Index: Defaults down in September

Thu, 21 Oct 2010 16:53:11 GMT

The latest release from the Standard and Poor's/Experian Consumer Credit Default index shows that more Americans are paying off their car loans at a higher rate than previous months.

The index tracks the rate of defaults, defined by lenders as balances that are unlikely to be collected,...

Getting smart about credit

Wed, 20 Oct 2010 09:00:00 GMT

Many consumers feel that their bad credit history means that they won't be able to qualify for mortgages or car loans ever again. That's simply not the case. There are many ways to improve credit - if buyers get smart about it.

Federal Reserve Acts to close credit card loopholes

Tue, 19 Oct 2010 16:30:02 GMT

For many consumers with bad credit, the U.S. Government's Credit Card Act was a lifesaver, putting an end to the exorbitant fees enacted on many credit cards aimed at subprime borrowers.

Before the act, a card could come with a low monthly limit of about $300, but charge a number of mon...

Federal Reserve Acts to close credit card loopholes

Tue, 19 Oct 2010 16:30:02 GMT

Consumer relief on the way

Mon, 18 Oct 2010 16:06:52 GMT

Consumers looking for mortgage and auto loan advice might be told that settling an outstanding debt with a creditor can be a good way to rebuild bad credit. This is true, but borrowers need to be careful in seeking the help of an ou...

Consumer relief on the way

Mon, 18 Oct 2010 16:06:52 GMT

Fraudulent mortgage company took advantage of consumers

Mon, 18 Oct 2010 16:06:11 GMT

In this economy, many people are struggling with bad credit. It doesn't help that there are a number of fraudulent companies out there looking to take advantage of desperate consumers.

New Jersey Attorney General Paula Dow recently announced that a New Jersey businessman named Stephen P...

Fraudulent mortgage company took advantage of consumers

Mon, 18 Oct 2010 16:06:11 GMT

F-150 to prioritize V6 engines

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 15:50:49 GMT

The F-150 has been a top seller for Ford over its long history, but the latest models will offer some non-traditional engines that focus on affordability and fuel efficiency.

Normally, Ford markets the full-size F-150 to buyers who are going to be using a truck for work and heavy-duty towin...

New website could help negotiation process

Thu, 14 Oct 2010 16:51:09 GMT

There is plenty of auto loan advice available on the internet, but no matter how much a buyer researches, the negotiation process for buying a vehicle is never easy. Often, haggling for the best price on a car can take hours or even...

Consumer Reports calls on new bureau to make credit report changes

Thu, 14 Oct 2010 16:50:48 GMT

Consumer Reports, a nonprofit guide for consumers across the country, has called upon President Barack Obama's newly-established Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) to make a number of changes that will benefit buyers.

The CFPB is one part of Obama's financial reform bill, s...

Bad credit can affect job search

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 17:42:51 GMT

Consumers with bad credit have likely realized that their score can affect their ability to be approved for a credit card, mortgage or car loan. Many don't expect that their low score could cost them a job.

According to the Kansas City Star, many employers are using credit checks as a w...

"Walking up the balance" can hurt credit score

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 17:41:39 GMT

In the wake of the economic downturn, banks and credit card companies tightened their lending practices, making a good credit score extremely important. For consumers with bad credit, that means knowing how credit scores work is just as critical.

One idea that many consumers are not aware o...

New Smart car could be option for bad credit drivers

Tue, 12 Oct 2010 15:21:15 GMT

Drivers with bad credit don't have a ton of options when it comes to purchasing a new vehicle, as their car loans won't let them get into a luxury car unless they buy used. Yet the Smart 'Fortwo, with its small size and great fuel economy, is a viable solution because it's a bit chea...

New Smart car could be option for bad credit drivers

Tue, 12 Oct 2010 15:21:15 GMT

Toyota to offer free maintenance

Tue, 12 Oct 2010 15:20:19 GMT

Drivers who are in the market for a vehicle need to realize that sometimes a vehicle can be almost as costly to maintain as it is to buy. Those with bad credit currently stuck with an aging vehicle have likely encountered this very problem.

Consumers may get some relief, thanks to a new off...

Toyota to offer free maintenance

Tue, 12 Oct 2010 15:20:19 GMT

Walking away can bring down the price

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 16:30:17 GMT

For drivers on a bad credit car loan, every penny counts. That means that negotiating with the dealer can be one of the most important steps in purchasing a vehicle.

ABC News recently teamed up with Edmunds' senior consumer a...

Eased credit restrictions helping auto recovery

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 16:37:46 GMT

Relaxed credit standards are making it easier for consumers to get car loans, which are in turn driving car sales and stimulating the auto industry, according to data from CNW Research.

CNW revealed that buyers with bad credit accounted for 9.9 percent of new car sales in September, the hig...

Credit limit factors into credit score

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 16:37:21 GMT

Some consumers may be generally paying their bills on time but not seeing their bad credit rise. This can be frustrating, especially since good credit is increasingly important in getting approved for car loans and mortgages.

Drivers with bad credit may be dismayed to know that their shoppi...

Study names greenest automakers

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 16:36:46 GMT

Drivers with bad credit may feel that they can't afford a car that gets great gas mileage while also helping the economy. Though it's true that hybrids often come at a premium compared to their gas-saving counterparts, they've been on the market for a couple of years now and many consume...

Delinquencies rise overall, but car loans down

Wed, 06 Oct 2010 20:22:25 GMT

Recent data released by the American Bankers Association (ABA) shows that although Americans' loan delinquencies rose for the first time this year, they are paying off their car loans at a greater rate.

Delinquencies, which are defined as a payment more than 30 days late, rose slightly ...

Dispelling credit myths

Wed, 06 Oct 2010 20:21:35 GMT

For consumers with bad credit, improving a credit report can be the key to getting a car loan at a great rate. Yet there's also a lot of misinformation out there about the best ways to do this.

Consumers should know right off the bat that the absolute best way to improve their scores is...

Payments should be top priority

Wed, 06 Oct 2010 20:20:12 GMT

For consumers with bad credit, cleaning up a credit report and getting a better score can seem like a monumental challenge. There are a wide range of ways to improve credit, but buyers should know that the most reliable and consistent strategy is making their payments on time.

That being sa...

Montego/Five-Hundred make great used cars

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 16:57:31 GMT

For buyers with bad credit, the driving factor behind a purchase will most likely be value. This means that they'll often be shopping on the used car market.

Buying a used car brings with it different considerations as compared to buying new. What kind of shape is the car in? What's...

Honda CR-V is a solid choice for families

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 16:54:13 GMT

Bad credit buyers who also have families are often faced with conundrums. Affordable base models often represent great value, but drivers will be tasked with the prospect of transporting their entire family around cramped in the back of a compact car. Minivans and SUVs are often too expensive to mer...

Chevy to debut new Aveo

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 16:52:10 GMT

The Chevy Aveo is a solid budget car that offers drivers the versatility of a sedan or hatchback while also providing exceptional gas mileage at 35 miles per gallon.

Now, Chevy is preparing to announce an updated 2011 version of its Aveo at the Paris Auto Show. While not yet officially unve...

Using the lowball effectively

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 16:49:56 GMT

One of the most basic negotiation tactics is the lowball. One of the keys to getting a great price on a vehicle could be the buyer's ability to lowball a dealer and resist the salesman's offers.

While the lowball is typically thought of as offering a price substantially lower than w...

New Scion tC could be boon for bad credit drivers

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 16:49:29 GMT

Many drivers with bad credit feel like they'll ultimately have to settle for a vehicle with little to no styling and few features. That's why some drivers are surprised when they walk off the lot in a highly-desirable vehicle.

Since its inception in the early 2000s, the Scion brand ...

Counseling services are there to help

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 16:48:48 GMT

For buyers with bad credit, the internet can be a helpful resource in picking up some tips on how to improve credit, as well as providing buyers with an easy way to apply online for things like car loans. Yet there are also plenty of scams out in cyberspace, and consumers should do all they can to m...

Used Elantra is a great bargain

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 16:48:27 GMT

Drivers with bad credit car loans will be looking for the best deal when they get to the dealership. There are many options available to them, but a few cars stand out about the rest.

MSN recently mentioned the Hyundai Elantra as a pick in the increasingly-crowded compact class for a "...

Pickup trucks that will get the job done

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 16:47:56 GMT

Many drivers with bad credit will simply gravitate toward the cheapest vehicle on the lot that will get them from point A to B, but some drivers don't have that option.

Some small business owners need the utility of the pickup truck to transport goods from place to place. This means tha...

Chevy vs. Ford in heavy-duty pickup truck race

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 16:47:31 GMT

The race for the most powerful heavy-duty pickup is on.

GM thought they had a winner with the 6.6-liter Duramax V8 in the Chevy Silverado. The diesel engine got 397 horsepower and 765 lb-ft of torque, outclassing the Ford SuperDuty, its chief competitor. Then, engineers at Ford found a way ...

Chevy vs. Ford in heavy-duty pickup truck race

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 16:47:31 GMT

Ford debuts new Focus

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 16:47:04 GMT

Ford has unveiled the redesigned Ford Focus at the Paris Auto Show, and the initial response from the automotive press was positive, with several outlets praising the model's sleek styling and excellent fuel economy.

The automaker says that the new Focus will take several cues from the ...

Honda Accord tough to beat in resale, reliability

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 16:46:24 GMT

The Honda Accord has been one of the best-selling vehicles in the country for several years, and the sales were not undeserved. This mid-size sedan scores consistently well in both resale and reliability studies, making it a strong choice for buyers in the market for a vehicle.

MSN recently...

Dealers can make money off financing

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 16:45:10 GMT

Buying a car can be a stressful process. After a long negotiation with the salesman on the price of the vehicle, many buyers are quickly taken over to a finance manager to talk about leasing and loan options.

According to AOL, this is where many dealers make most of their money. By getting ...

Suzuki Kizashi offers luxury at a discount

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 18:51:08 GMT

Some consumers with bad credit are frequently surprised at the type of car loans that they are approved for. While many drivers automatically assume that they'll have to take a heavily-used vehicle or a base model without features like air conditioning, they're sometimes able to step up into...

Interest rates fluctuate based on credit score

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 18:50:46 GMT

Most consumers know that their good or bad credit directly affects their ability to be approved for things like car loans, mortgages and credit cards. Yet many don't realize how just a few points can greatly affect the rates that they are quoted.

Recent findings by Zillow, an online mor...

AmeriCredit shareholders approve GM deal

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 18:49:52 GMT

Shareholders have approved the sale of AmeriCredit to General Motors in a move designed to strengthen the automaker's ability to offer subprime loans to prospective car buyers.

AmeriCredit, which specializes in bad credit car loans, was acquired by GM in July for an estimated $3.5 billi...

Zillow: Nearly one-third of the country can't get a mortgage

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 20:04:35 GMT

A new analysis of data by a real estate database has found that bad credit scores are stopping nearly one-third of Americans from being approved for a mortgage.

Zillow is a real estate and mortgage database that handles thousands of requests for home loan quotes. For over 25,000 people appl...

Bad credit borrowers must be proactive

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 20:04:07 GMT

Time heals all wounds, except when it comes to credit reports. At least, time will not heal negative information on a credit report quickly enough for it to be of any use to someone looking to get a car loan or mortgage.

FICO recently reported that approximately 43.4 percent of Americans, o...

Last-minute charges can turn a good deal sour

Tue, 28 Sep 2010 18:53:42 GMT

Negotiating the price of a vehicle can be an exhausting and intensive process, and part of getting a good deal can simply be wearing down a salesperson. Yet at the same time, a dealer knows that the longer they keep someone in the store, the less likely they are to leave.

Figuring out the f...

Watch out for the "bait and switch"

Tue, 28 Sep 2010 18:53:09 GMT

"The old bait and switch" is a common term, yet not all drivers know exactly what it means. It might be the oldest trick in a salesman's book, but that doesn't stop them from using it time and time again - often successfully.

According to Edmunds, salespeople are quite ski...

Beware of "re-aging"

Tue, 28 Sep 2010 18:52:41 GMT

Consumers with bad credit may be in the position that they're in because of "charge-offs," or debts written off by companies as uncollectable, from earlier in life. These negative notices can remain on a credit report for up to seven years. Yet some borrowers may notice that these old ...

Cleaning up bad credit

Fri, 24 Sep 2010 17:14:59 GMT

The low number on a bad credit report can seem like a permanent blemish to many consumers. And when this number prevents borrowers from getting approved for a credit card, mortgage or car loan, the situation can start to feel hopeless.

Yet those with bad credit shouldn't give up hope. T...

Understanding dealer holdbacks

Fri, 24 Sep 2010 17:14:13 GMT

Once a buyer has secured their car loan, it comes time to negotiate with the dealer. All car buyers should go into the dealership with an idea of the value of the vehicle that they're looking at and how much they're willing to pay. Even so, the more knowledge that they are armed with, the be...

Jackson: Credit issues hurting recovery

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 17:18:58 GMT

Mike Jackson, CEO of national car dealer chain AutoNation recently told the Detroit Free Press that he feels consumers' bad credit is one of the things holding the auto industry back, and that it would take nearly four years for sales figures to return to pre-recession levels.

Jackson l...

Jackson: Credit issues hurting recovery

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 17:18:58 GMT

S&P, Experian: Car loan defaults up

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 17:17:18 GMT

The latest release by Experian and Standard and Poor's (S&P) joint Consumer Credit Default index has revealed that borrowers are defaulting on their car loans at a higher rate than other credit-related financial obligations.

Data from the month of August revealed that defaults on au...

S&P, Experian: Car loan defaults up

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 17:17:18 GMT

Experian to acquire credit report websites

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 16:37:57 GMT

Experian, one of the three major credit bureaus and the company behind FreeCreditReport.com, has announced that it will acquire competitor Mighty Net, operator of several credit-related websites, for approximately $207.5 million dollars.

Mighty Net maintains sites like CreditScore.com and C...

Experian to acquire credit report websites

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 16:37:57 GMT

Understanding the role of the sales manager

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 09:02:37 GMT

Going to the dealership can be a confusing time, but drivers who have already secured a bad credit car loan should be confident in their ability to get a vehicle at a great price. Backed by the purchasing power of their loan, drive...

Suzuki SX4 gives buyers affordable options

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 09:01:59 GMT

For drivers with a bad credit car loan, finding a car at the right price can be a bit tricky. Furthermore, they're often restricted to models that lack some basic features, like air conditioning or power locks. Yet whether they're ...

"Take it or leave it?" Leave it

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 17:07:50 GMT

When negotiating with a car dealer, there are some important things to look out for, like ancillary fees and charges that drivers may be able to get out of paying. Yet as important as knowing what the technical aspects of deals are, it's also important to simply know some common negotiating t...

Kia Rio to star on US Top Gear?

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 17:06:11 GMT

Auto enthusiasts treat the UK television show Top Gear's word as sacred. One of the more popular segments on that show is called "Star in a Reasonably-Priced Car," in which a celebrity takes an affordable vehicle for a spin, usually to recommend it as a vehicle for those without a big budget....

A tip for trade-ins

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 13:19:07 GMT

Once a buyer has decided to trade in their vehicle and secured a car loan, the next step is to pick out the car that they want. When doing this, there's an important tip that they should keep in mind once they get to the dealership.

Some dealers will attempt to use a tactic known as ...

Watch out for the "new kid on the block"

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 13:18:59 GMT

For those buying a car with a bad credit car loan, every penny counts. By knocking money off of the purchase price of the vehicle, a buyer puts themselves in a better situation to make their monthly payments - which means a better credit ...

Disputed bills can lead to bad credit

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 21:41:48 GMT

Some consumers might be surprised to open up their credit report and find their score about 100 points lower than they thought it was. Unfortunately, this can be the case if someone attempts to dispute a wrongful bill.

According to the Chicago Tribune's money advice column, one local...

Capital One reports charge-off rise

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 21:39:42 GMT

Capital One, which specializes in credit cards and car loans for customers with bad credit, has reported a slight increase in its charge-off rate for the month of August.

After four months of decline, the credit card charge-off rate rose to 8.19 percent, up from 8.13 percent in July....

Chrysler unveils new models to dealers

Tue, 14 Sep 2010 12:59:45 GMT

At a meeting of nationwide Chrysler dealers in Orlando, dealers were given a glimpse of the company's latest offerings.

Chrysler, which also owns the Dodge, Jeep and Ram brands, plans to bring out 15 new models over the next four months in an attempt to revive its image in the wake o...

USA Federal Credit Union plans merger

Mon, 13 Sep 2010 19:34:19 GMT

USA Federal Credit Union, which provides car loans, mortgages, credit cards and home equity, has announced that it will merge with Navy Federal Credit Union in order to stay afloat.

The company has struggled mightily during the recession, losing $45.1 million over the past three year...

Using a secured credit card

Mon, 13 Sep 2010 19:34:06 GMT

Consumers with bad credit know that they need to be using credit in order to improve their score. But once a borrower has a poor credit report, it can be difficult to get a loan or credit card.

One fact that buyers should be aware of is that they are often pre-approved for a car loan...

Beware of credit repair counseling scams

Fri, 10 Sep 2010 13:02:11 GMT

The nation's collective bad credit is leading many scam artists to take advantage of unsuspecting consumers by offering fraudulent "credit repair" services.

According to the Washington Post, many companies are defrauding honest borrowers in tough circumstances because of the economy....

Chrysler expands leasing program

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 13:10:50 GMT

Chrysler has announced that it will expand its leasing offers to bad credit customers through a new agreement with lender U.S. Bank.

The financial institution will provide customers with several more options when looking to finance a new vehicle at Chrysler. Chrysler currently offers f...

Lancer offers sportiness at an affordable price

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 13:10:27 GMT

Drivers with bad credit may think that they can't afford a sporty driving experience, but that's simply not the case. By applying online, drivers can find out exactly where they stand in terms of car loans and find out what price range of vehicles they can look at.

Many assume that if ...

Consumers cut back on credit spending

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 13:50:02 GMT

The Federal Reserve has announced that Americans have cut back on credit spending for a 23rd consecutive month, with overall spending falling by $3.6 billion dollars in July.

While that may sound like a massive decrease, it's only a fraction of what the country as a whole spends usin...

FICO: "Credit gap" may widen

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 21:38:35 GMT

FICO, the company behind the credit scores used nationwide, has released a new study finding that the "credit gap" may widen in the near future.

Put simply, the "credit gap" is the relationship between available credit and demand for car loans, mortgages, and cards....

Car loan delinquencies may be on the rise

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 21:38:26 GMT

According to a survey of banking professionals undertaken by FICO, the company behind the nation's credit scores, car loan and credit card delinquencies are predicted to rise substantially over the next six months.

While credit bureau TransUnion recently reported a drop in car loan del...

Credit customers jumping ship

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 21:38:11 GMT

Credit card customers are jumping ship frequently and are generally not remaining loyal to credit card companies, according to a new study.

JD Power and Associates reveals that although customers are slightly more satisfied overall with their cards as compared to last year, 78 percent ...

Credit customers jumping ship

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 21:38:11 GMT

Kia recalling Sorento, Soul

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 13:35:14 GMT

Kia is recalling several thousand of its Sorento and Soul models due to faulty wiring.

The South Korean automaker is recalling 35,000 of its vehicles due to wiring that could lead to a fire. While no accidents or injuries have been reported, the company is taking a "better safe th...

Credit freezes can help protect against fraud and identity theft

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 13:34:57 GMT

Identity theft and fraud is a very real threat to consumers with open credit accounts. Thanks to a few opportunistic thieves, good credit can quickly become bad credit after just a few shopping trips.

Sophisticated scammers have even been known to open faulty credit accounts in other p...

Building credit in and out of college

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 14:25:57 GMT

As September rolls around, many students are heading off to college while recent graduates are either looking for jobs or secure in the workforce. Whatever an individual case may be, young people are using credit, while many may not know exactly what the risks of doing so are.

To avoid kick...

Suzuki hatchback is a great back-to-school car

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 14:22:48 GMT

As back-to-school time rolls around, many students will need a ride that will keep them safe while getting them from point A to B. But times are tight, and parents may need to take out a car loan in order to cover such a cost.

Whether a parent is buying a child a car or upgrading themselves...

Using a car loan calculator

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 13:10:00 GMT

Borrowers with bad credit should know that as they make payments on their car loans, their credit will gradually improve over time. The key to this, however, is actually making the payments on time.

A car loan can be a great way to get into a vehicle that one might not normally be able to a...

TransUnion: Car loan delinquencies fall

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 13:09:34 GMT

Major credit bureau TransUnion reports that car loan delinquencies fell across the board in the second quarter of 2009, representing an increase in fiscal responsibility for consumers.

According to the company, delinquencies, defined as a late payment of more than 60 days, fell to .53 ...

TransUnion: Car loan delinquencies fall

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 13:09:34 GMT

Chevy Aveo offers increased fuel economy

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 13:09:11 GMT

Some drivers with bad credit stick with one vehicle for years, fearing that their financial history means they'll never qualify for a car loan. Yet in many cases, they're actually pre-approved for a loan and simply don't know it.

The biggest consideration with a car loan is how much a ...

The Yaris is a value buy

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 13:09:01 GMT

Once a driver has a car loan, many will automatically assume that they should be shopping the used car market. And when it comes to used cars, Toyota Camrys and Corollas are popular choices for their features and longevity.

Still, drivers should know that in many cases they'll be able ...

Bankrupt borrowers have options

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 13:03:39 GMT

Millions of consumers, unable to deal with the financial pressures of the economy, have filed for bankruptcy. But what can bankrupt consumers do to pull themselves out of what seems like a financial black hole?

According to the Wall Street Journal, bankruptcy filings shot up 21 percent in t...

Get a Nissan Versa with a bad credit auto loan

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 13:03:31 GMT

Borrowers with bad credit often assume that their only options for car loans are barely-running jalopies that will barely get them from A to B. However, this isn't actually the case.

Even buyers with bad credit don't have to ride around in a hunk of junk. In fact, they can actually get...

Car loans can be the key to future financial success

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 13:03:17 GMT

For many consumers, car loans are a financial obligation. Yet they can actually be more than that, by helping to improve consumers' bad credit enough in order to give them greater financial security in the future.

According to the Los Angeles Times' financial advice columnist Liz Westo...

Will new bureau address credit report errors?

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 13:03:06 GMT

Bad credit can affect a consumer's ability to get a car loan, mortgage and even a job. For many borrowers, dealing with a poor credit report is difficult enough. But the process can be exacerbated by an error affecting one's score.

One of the reasons it's important for consumers to che...

Will new bureau address credit report errors?

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 13:03:06 GMT

Nissan and Hyundai battle for second-place among Asian brands

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 13:02:51 GMT

With Toyota reeling after a number of recalls, the traditional order among Asian car brands in the United States has been shaken up, with both Nissan and Hyundai looking to supplant Honda as the second most-popular brand.

According to USA Today, Toyota has seen sales fall to Asian riva...

Santander acquires HSBC loans

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 13:02:42 GMT

Banco Santander SA, Spain's largest home and car loan lender, has purchased a portfolio of auto loans from London-based HSBC Bank.

According to Reuters, Santander paid $4 billion to take over existing loans with a face value of $4.3 billion from HSBC. Bad loans from HSBC made the compa...

Ford Windstar to be recalled

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 13:02:33 GMT

Drivers have tons of options when it comes to a used vehicle, especially once they've secured a car loan by applying online. Yet there are a few popular vehicles that drivers should look out for, as mechanical troubles may not make the car ideal for purchase.

That seems to be the case with ...

Refinancing available as rates edge down

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 13:02:13 GMT

As interest rates drop across the country, drivers who feel they are paying too much for their car loan should look at their options when it comes to financing.

According to the Washington Post, car loan rates have "edged down" in recent months, making it a great time to appl...

Analysts predict auto sales to be down in August

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 13:10:26 GMT

Several analysts have predicted depressed sales figures for August as compared to the same month in 2009.

According to the Associated Press, the government's "Cash for Clunkers" program inflated 2009 numbers to the point that this year's totals will not be able to reach those set ...

More lenders accepting bad credit applicants

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 13:16:44 GMT

New data released by major credit bureau Experian shows that more lenders are accepting applications for car loans from buyers with bad credit.

Bad credit car loans accounted for 18.2 percent of loans in the second quarter as compared with 17.6 percent the year before, according to the com...

Go green with a Nissan Altima hybrid

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 13:16:32 GMT

Many drivers are attracted to the eco-friendly nature of hybrids, not to mention the cash that they'll save at the pump thanks to their increased fuel economy. But for buyers with bad credit, hybrids are often outside their price range.

Environmentally conscious drivers might be intere...

Labor Day deal on a Jeep Grand Cherokee

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 13:16:24 GMT

With Labor Day weekend approaching, many car dealers and manufacturers will be rolling out incentives in an effort to move out the old 2010 stock and make way for redesigned 2011 models. For buyers with bad credit, this is the perfect time to buy a vehicle, as the savings allow them to buy vehi...

Separating a consumer from their credit score

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 13:15:45 GMT

Some consumers who find out that they have bad credit immediately take the number to heart; fearing that the low score is a judgment of their character. The psychological effects of a low score can be troubling, as many feel there is no way to improve their numbers.

Yet this is not the...

2010 models with fantastic resale values

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 13:15:32 GMT

With the 2011 models making their way to showrooms, many dealers are eager to get rid of older 2010 models. This means that it's a great time to finally get that car loan and choose a vehicle.

There are many factors that go into picking the right vehicle, but one of the big ones for th...

Chevy's Labor Day incentives make car loans attractive

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 13:15:24 GMT

With Labor Day weekend approaching, a number of manufacturers are offering incentives on some popular 2010 vehicles in order to make way for the 2011 models. By securing their car loan ahead of time, buyers can negotiate a great deal.

According to USA Today, many Chevy vehicles are off...

Chevy's Labor Day incentives make car loans attractive

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 13:15:24 GMT

Hard and soft inquiries

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 13:15:17 GMT

Applying for a car loan can be a confusing process, especially for those with bad credit. Making matters worse is the wealth of misinformation out there that only clouds the real issues at play.

U.S. News and World Report recently set out to debunk a few of those myths so that those wi...

The "most considered" vehicles

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 21:53:36 GMT

When buyers are in the market for a new car, choosing a brand can be one of the most important considerations. Once a driver has secured a car loan, they want to be sure that their purchase will be reliable for years to come.

Kelley Blue Book, which provides values for used vehicles, r...

Hyundai, Kia working to shed "budget" image

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 21:53:19 GMT

Choosing a brand can be an important step in deciding on the right car, as each brand offers something different. Drivers shopping for a new car should familiarize themselves with these brands in order to know what they're getting in a new vehicle.

During the economic downturn, many have tu...

Fiat 500: An affordable Mini?

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 21:53:08 GMT

There's no denying that many consumers like the fuel economy, compact nature and sleek styling of BMW's Mini Cooper brand. While the Mini is a European export by way of Britain, there isn't a true car in the U.S. market that emulates what the Mini does.

Enter the Fiat 500. After the It...

Credit card rates hit nine-year high

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 13:06:40 GMT

For those struggling with bad credit, making payments on time may be the the most important consideration. For that reason, it's important to stay on top of interest rates, as they directly affect how much consumers have to pay.

According to new figures released by Synovate, interest r...

Credit card rates hit nine-year high

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 13:06:40 GMT

Credit card reporting affects scores

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 13:26:37 GMT

Most consumers know that by paying their bills on time, they can avoid the pitfalls of bad credit. But others with bad credit may be shocked to find that their score may be low through no fault of their own.

Beyond late payments, one of the factors that credit cards take into account i...

GM files for IPO

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 13:28:46 GMT

General Motors has filed for its initial public offering (IPO) after posting significant gains for consecutive financial quarters.

The Detroit automaker has announced that it will go public after its much-publicized bankruptcy and bailout. An IPO involves a company selling its shares t...

Credit for college students

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 09:00:00 GMT

As the back-to-school season starts, college students will be returning to campus or possibly going for the first time. But thanks to a new reform bill signed last year, they most likely won't be going with plastic in their wallets.

Last year's credit card reform bill included provisions to...

Experian: Consumers carrying fewer credit cards

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 20:37:55 GMT

As the economic recession worsened, many Americans' credit scores took a hit, affecting whether or not they were approved for loans. Although those with bad credit should know that they will be approved for a car loan in many cases, consumers should also keep up-to-date on how the country is coping ...

Experian: Consumers carrying fewer credit cards

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 20:37:55 GMT

Credit card delinquencies fall

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 21:50:42 GMT

Credit card companies reporting their monthly earnings revealed that credit card delinquencies and charge-offs fell across the board in July, indicating that Americans may be improving their bad credit.

According to Reuters, most of the major credit card lenders showed downturns in the numb...

Auto sales help overall retail numbers

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 21:49:18 GMT

While the number of Americans returning to retail outlets in July slowed a bit, the numbers were propped up by a strong showing from the automotive sector.

The Commerce Department reports that July's retail and food service sales numbers were up 5.5 percent from a year ago and up 0.4 f...

Dealers facing inventory shortages

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 17:51:33 GMT

Many car buyers are well-informed on the process of acquiring car loans, but most don't realize that dealers need loans too.

The vast majority of dealers can't afford to pay for the cars that they sell out of pocket. So they take out their own car loans in order to finance their invent...

Mitsubishi offers car loan incentives

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 17:50:50 GMT

Often, the deciding factor in which brand a car buyer settles on will be the incentives that a particular automaker offers. This month, Mitsubishi is giving consumers a range of options when it comes to buying their vehicles.

The Japanese automaker is offering 0 percent interest on several ...

Refinancing a car loan

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 17:50:38 GMT

Many buyers with bad credit become disheartened while shopping for car loans because they automatically assume that they will not be approved. Yet in many cases, this is simply not true.

There are many lenders who offer car loans to drivers with bad credit. Even more conveniently, it's...

Fortress acquires subprime lender

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 22:17:37 GMT

The Fortress Investment Group has agreed to buy American General Finance (AGF) from AIG, a company that specializes in providing car loans, mortgages and financing for retail sales to those with less-than-perfect or bad credit.

The move could mean that a new source for bad credit car ...

Getting a great-looking car on a bad credit car loan

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 21:57:03 GMT

Many drivers with bad credit immediately assume that they won't be able to get a great car with the kind of car loans that they're approved for, but many times this isn't the case.

MSN Autos recently profiled some cars that look great and may fall within the price range of those in the...

New rules may help those with bad credit

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 13:07:11 GMT

A new set of rules governing how credit card companies charge their customers may have an impact on consumers' credit ratings. Buyers with bad credit should take note of these changes in order to possibly improve their score.

According to WBRC in Alabama, the new rules will go into effect o...

Chrysler incentives make vehicles attractive

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 13:06:54 GMT

Chrysler's August incentives mean that several Chrysler vehicles, like the Town and Country minivan, PT Cruiser and Sebring sedan, are good bets for buyers with bad credit.

The automaker is continuing its summer incentive program this month, offering 0 percent car loan financing on sev...

Chrysler incentives make vehicles attractive

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 13:06:54 GMT

Credit cards down, car loans up in June

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 13:08:12 GMT

According to June's numbers as reported by the Federal Reserve, Americans backed off from using credit cards during the month of June, while car loans were on the rise.

The Associated Press reports that Americans' credit behavior during the month of June followed the trends that have b...

Hyundai and Kia provide affordable cars for bad credit car loans

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 12:54:10 GMT

Drivers who have secured their bad credit car loans are often surprised at the type of cars they can afford. While some drivers are aware that they are pre-approved for a car loan, they often believe that they'll end up with a lemon or jalopy that will barely get them from A to B.

The ...

Having lots of cards can help improve credit score

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 13:08:13 GMT

Those with bad credit should know that they have many options when it comes to applying for things like car loans, mortgages and insurance. While those with less-than-perfect credit scores should know that they are pre-approved for car loans in many cases, it is still a good idea to learn more ...

Three misconceptions about bad credit

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 19:23:23 GMT

Those with bad credit commonly feel like they have few options when it comes to getting car loans or other forms of financial assistance. Yet there are a few things they can do that can help them improve their scores and get into better vehicles, according to a credit expert.

Eddie Joh...

Ally Financial posts second quarter profit

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 19:22:36 GMT

Ally Financial, a major source of car loans, has posted a second quarter profit, signalling that a potential turnaround is in the cards.

The company posted a $565 million profit in the second quarter, up from a $3.9 billion loss in the same period of 2009, according to the Detroit News. For...

Year-end closeouts are an ideal time to get a new car

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 13:08:09 GMT

Buying a car can be a big decision, especially if the purchase involves setting up a car loan. In many respects, timing is everything. Drivers who are considering a new vehicle may be interested to know that the summer months are a perfect time to buy a new vehicle.

According to Bloomb...

Year-end closeouts are an ideal time to get a new car

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 13:08:09 GMT

What the AmeriCredit purchase means for car buyers

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 15:04:30 GMT

General Motors recently announced that it will pay $3.5 billion to purchase AmeriCredit, a company that specializes in bad credit auto loans. But what does this mean for car buyers?

According to USA Today, the move could mean that buyers with less than stellar credit may be finding the...

What the AmeriCredit purchase means for car buyers

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 15:04:30 GMT

A sleek convertible on a bad credit car loan?

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 15:04:13 GMT

Drivers who are seeking a bad credit auto loan may think that their financial standing prices them out of sleek vehicles like convertibles. However, in many cases that's simply not true. While drivers might not be able to get into a brand new BMW convertible, there are options for those who lik...

Toyota Tacoma is a great choice for those with bad credit

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 15:03:59 GMT

Many drivers with bad credit worry that they won't be able to afford anything other than a busted old lemon. However, before they panic, potential car buyers should do a little research and find out which cars are really in their price range. More than likely, they'll be able to get a car that's in ...

Study: First time buyers not getting good deals on car loans

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 15:00:50 GMT

A new study has revealed that many first time car buyers are not getting the best financing possible for their car loans, because they are ignorant of their credit score and other lending factors.

According to AOL Autos, a new report by Capital One Auto Finance shows that many buyers d...

Study: First time buyers not getting good deals on car loans

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 15:00:50 GMT

Tips for getting a better car loan rate from a dealer

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 15:00:31 GMT

Many car buyers simply don't realize the rates that they qualify for when getting a car loan. Some drivers with bad credit may feel that they are trapped, with no options. This can lead to mistakes in researching a car loan. For example, a new study by Capital One Auto Financing found that just...

The Mitsubishi Endeavor is a great choice for bad credit buyers

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 14:59:59 GMT

Many drivers with bad credit have families, and want something a little roomier and more practical than a typical sedan. While some may believe that their credit score precludes them from getting the type of vehicle they want, there are actually car loans available for all sorts of makes and mo...

When to schedule a car loan application is an important consideration

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 14:59:43 GMT

According to a report by Capital One Auto Finance, only one-third of first-time car buyers check their credit score when applying for a loan. The fact that many Americans don't bother with their credit score is one of the reasons that many end up saddled with loans that they can't afford, which...

When to schedule a car loan application is an important consideration

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 14:59:43 GMT

Good saving habits lead to a better credit score

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 14:59:10 GMT

Many drivers with bad credit feel like there's no way for them to improve their score, or they see little to no movement even after paying bills on time. But a simple change in spending and saving habits can engineer a dramatic change in the buyer's favor.

One of the biggest enemies of...

JD Power: Car loan lenders satisfying dealers

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 22:11:56 GMT

A new report by JD Power has found that lenders in the car loan business are making dealers happier by approving more loans, suggesting that lenders who approve more car loans stand to improve their relationship with a dealer.

The report found a correlation between dealers who are high...

JD Power: Car loan lenders satisfying dealers

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 22:11:56 GMT

New consumer bureau will help protect those applying for car loans

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 22:05:30 GMT

As part of Congress' sweeping financial overhauls, a new consumer bureau will overlook the lending industry, helping consumers avoid falling victim to scam artists in the car loan business.

The new government agency, dubbed the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, will pull employees...

Equifax posts second quarter results

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 22:05:14 GMT

Equifax, one of the three major U.S. credit bureaus, is reporting increased profits in the second quarter. The company is responsible for determining whether a consumer has good or bad credit by gathering data from various sources.

Equifax posted increased revenue of 7 percent during t...

Equifax posts second quarter results

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 22:05:14 GMT

Getting the right lease

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 13:03:04 GMT

Once a driver has realized that he is pre-approved for a bad credit auto loan, he or she can begin the search for the perfect car. One way that many car buyers opt to save a bit of money is by leasing a vehicle rather than buying. Under the terms of a lease, a driver can opt for monthly payment...

Getting a pony car on a budget

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 19:28:42 GMT

Those with bad credit may think that the true classics of American muscle are out of their price range. Contrary to popular belief, there are actually many options for those with less-than-perfect credit, thanks to the availability of bad credit car loans.

For example, many people would bel...

FICO scores adopted by over 2,500 institutions

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 19:28:19 GMT

Consumers may not know that what is commonly referred to as a credit score is actually a rating provided by an algorithm developed by one company, known as FICO, which previously stood for the "Fair Isaac Corporation." Recently, FICO announced that the score had been adopted by over 2...

Consumer confidence slipping amid job concerns

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 19:27:02 GMT

One of the most important things for consumers with bad credit to realize is that they are not alone. The economy has taken its toll on many Americans, but it has also caused a drop in credit scores. In fact, FICO recently reported that 25 percent of consumers' credit scores are below 600, cons...

Consumer confidence slipping amid job concerns

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 19:27:02 GMT

Applying for a car loan in the digital age

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 13:01:24 GMT

As technology changes, so do the ways in which we interact with the world. While people were just beginning to discover the internet 15 years ago, recent years have seen the digital era transform the ways in which businesses operate. These changes include the process of applying for a car loan....

Bad credit car loans making a comeback

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 13:06:14 GMT

Despite lenders tightening their belt during the recession, businesses are beginning to offer bad credit car loans again, and subprime lenders are expanding their networks to work with even more car dealers.

According to data provided to the Detroit News by credit reporting agency Expe...

Bad credit car loans making a comeback

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 13:06:14 GMT

Teenager swaps cell phone for Porsche

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 21:48:43 GMT

A California teenager has put his entrepreneurial skills to work by swapping a junky old cell phone for a 2000 Porsche Boxster.

By scouring the "bartering" tab on Craigslist over a period of two years, 17-year-old Steven Ortiz was able to make a succession of trades that resulted ...

New bill looks to help those with bad credit

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 20:58:04 GMT

It's no secret that many Americans have had a rough go of it in the economic downturn. In fact, FICO recently reported that 25 percent of Americans now have scores below 600, considered a "poor risk" for lenders, which is 10 percent higher than the historical average. In an attempt to...

New bill looks to help those with bad credit

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 20:58:04 GMT

GM to begin offering bad credit car loans again

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 20:57:46 GMT

General Motors has regained a financing arm, after making a move to acquire subprime lender AmeriCredit for an estimated $3.5 billion dollars. Before the government bailout, GM sold its stake in its in-house lender, GMAC, which became a separate company and recently changed its name to Ally Financia...

Chrysler Financial may resume lending soon

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 13:01:43 GMT

Chrysler Financial, previously the lending arm of big three automaker Chrysler, may soon resume lending, according to an insider familiar with the company's plans. The company will begin by lending to buyers with near-prime credit, but may eventually begin offering bad credit auto loans again.<...

Relaxed lender restrictions make car loans easy to obtain

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 19:49:08 GMT

Although lenders tightened their belts during the economic recession, credit unions looking to rebound from the tough economy are easing lending restrictions, meaning more Americans are being approved for a car loan.

CNW Marketing Research reports that approval for those with the highe...

Relaxed lender restrictions make car loans easy to obtain

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 19:49:08 GMT

Consumer credit scores drop below 599

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 19:39:16 GMT

According to FICO, the average consumer has 13 credit obligations, including credit cards and auto loans. Juggling these financial responsibilities can be tricky in a rough economy. However, those struggling with bad credit should be comforted by the fact that they're not alone.

Recen...

Consumer credit scores drop below 599

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 19:39:16 GMT