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Getting a car loan can be tough, especially when your credit score leaves something to be desired. Lenders know this, and some will, unfortunately, take advantage of those who have bad credit scores by engaging in predatory lending practices. Thankfully, by being aware of these practices, you should be able to avoid scams and predatory lending. Let’s take a closer look at some of the tips and tricks you should keep in mind below.

Watch Out for Red Flags

When applying for a car loan, you’ve got to remember to watch out for red flags that may indicate predatory behavior in a certain lender. Listed below are some red flags you should always keep an eye out for:

High-Interest Rates

Predatory lenders will often charge higher than needed rates, which can make your loan more unaffordable in the long run. While some situations do require a higher interest rate than others, you should still do your due diligence and ensure that you aren’t being taken advantage of.

Large Down Payments

Some lenders may require a hefty down payment upfront, which can be a major red flag. Always be wary, and use your best judgment.

Balloon Payments

This one is hardly fair since most people don’t know what balloon payments are. A balloon payment is a large lump sum payment that’s due at the end of a loan term. Predatory lenders typically use balloon payments to make a certain loan seem more affordable in the short term, but it can ultimately be costly over time.

Pressure to Sign Quickly

Your lender should never rush you! If a lender pressures you to sign quickly without giving you any time to review the loan documents, it’s a red flag.

Ask Questions

You should always ask the lender questions to make sure that you fully understand the terms of the loan. Here are some questions you can ask:

• What is the interest rate?
• What is the total cost of the loan, including all fees?
• Are there any prepayment penalties?
• What happens if I miss a payment?
• How long is the loan term?
• Can I refinance this loan in the future?
• What’s the total amount of interest I will pay over the life of the loan?

Read Loan Documents Carefully

Before signing any loan documents, remember to read them over several times. Ensure you understand all of the terms and conditions of the loan before you sign anything. If there’s anything you don’t understand, ask the lender to explain it to you. Some important things to look for in bad credit car loan documents include:

• Interest rate
• Loan term
• Monthly payment amount
• Total cost of the loan
• Prepayment penalties
• Late payment fees
• Balloon payments

Get in Touch with Car N’ Credit Today

When seeking out a bad credit car loan, it’s always a good idea to be aware of potential scams and predatory lending practices. Remember, there are reputable lenders out there who will be happy to help you get the car you need — even if you have bad credit. If you’re located in Piqua, Ohio, and want to explore your bad credit car financing options, be sure to stop by Car N’ Credit. You can also contact their skilled team by dialing (937) 773-0895 or visiting their website.