If you're thinking about buying a new or used car but don't have the cash to pay upfront, one option is to apply for vehicle financing. In this article, we'll explain how this type of credit works, what documents are required, and what precautions you should take before closing the deal.
What is vehicle financing?
Vehicle financing is a type of credit in which you receive the money to buy the car of your choice and pay in monthly installments, with interest and fees.
The car is secured by the bank or finance company that granted the loan, meaning it serves as collateral for your repayment. If you're late or fail to make your installments, the lender can repossess your vehicle.
How to apply for vehicle financing?
To apply for vehicle financing, you need to follow a few steps:
– Research the best conditions: Before choosing a car and a lender, it's important to compare interest rates, fees, installment amounts, terms, and the total effective cost (CET) of financing from different institutions. You can use online simulators to compare and find the best option for your budget.
– Choosing the car and the lender: After researching the best conditions, you must choose the car you want to buy and the institution that will finance your vehicle.
You can do this directly at the dealership or store, or through a banking correspondent, which is an intermediary authorized by the Central Bank to offer credit from different banks and financial institutions.
– Submit documentation: To apply for financing, you'll need to submit certain documents for the lender's credit analysis. These documents may vary by institution, but generally include:
– Identity document (RG or CNH)
– CPF
– Proof of income (pay stub, bank statement or income tax return)
– Proof of residence (electricity, water, telephone bill or official correspondence)
– Vehicle document (invoice or single transfer document)
– Wait for approval: After submitting the documentation, you must wait for your financing to be approved. This process can take a few days, depending on the institution and your credit status. If your loan is approved, you will receive a contract to sign and return to the lender.
– Receive the money and buy the car: After signing the contract, you'll receive the financing funds in your checking account or directly into the car seller's account. You can then pick up your vehicle and begin paying your financing installments.
What precautions should I take when applying for vehicle financing?
When applying for vehicle financing, you need to take some precautions to avoid future problems, such as:
– Check the car's condition: Before purchasing a car, it's recommended to have it inspected to ensure it's in good mechanical condition and has no outstanding legal or administrative issues. You can check the vehicle's status using the Renavam number on your state's DMV website.
– Read the contract carefully: Before signing the financing contract, it's essential to carefully read all the clauses and conditions, such as installment amounts, interest, fees, penalties, deadlines, and guarantees. If you have any questions, ask the lender or a lawyer for clarification.
– Plan your budget: When applying for vehicle financing, you should plan your budget to be able to pay your installments on time and avoid default. Remember that the installment amount should not exceed 30% of your monthly income.
Additionally, you should set aside some of your money for fuel, maintenance, insurance, and car taxes.