Want a new car? Free Resources to Help You Prepare

Did you know there are free resources that will help you prepare yourself for purchasing you next vehicle? PenAir has you covered!
Prep for Your Purchase
Start with a Plan
To best prepare yourself, start with a money management plan to learn what you can afford. Consider what you have available to use for a down payment and what can you afford for your total monthly expense.
Know Your Credit History
Next, review your credit and develop an understanding of how it will affect your financing for the vehicle. You can request free annual reports from each of the three nationwide credit bureaus.
Check to be sure the information is accurate, complete, and up-to-date. It’s important to do this at least once a year. If you find mistakes on your credit report, contact the credit bureaus and the business that supplied the information to get the mistakes removed from your report.
Get Answers Quickly
PenAir has the tools you need right at your fingertips.
Know Your Needs vs Wants
Then, tackle the remaining elements of the vehicle purchase
- What type of car are you looking for?
- Do you have a vehicle to trade? What’s the value?
- How do you get the best deal?
Shop Around--Not Just for the Car
Shop around for financing. Dealership financing isn’t your only option. Start with banks, credit unions, and other financing companies. Get pre-approved and use that offer to negotiate with the dealership. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recommends calling dealerships before going to the lot.
Take a breath and go slow. Read the sales contract and financing agreement carefully. Make sure the terms you agreed to match what’s in the contract. Get answers about any fees or charges you don’t recognize.
Walk away if you’re not getting what was promised. You don’t have to take the deal if you’re not satisfied.
Check out these free resources to help you on your journey:
- Money Management Planner – You work hard for the money. Know where it goes and see how you can keep more of it by enrolling in our free Money Management tool (inside Online Banking & our Mobile App).
- Balance Car Loan Calculator – Calculate the payment or the purchase price, your monthly payment, and more.
- PenAir Calculators – Knowing exactly “how much” or “what is” is important for your peace of mind.
Next Steps
When you are ready to take off on a new driving adventure, check out the resources we have for you here at PenAir: