10 Used Car Financing Tips To Save Money And Get Approved

Rising demand and constrained supply have pushed used car prices to record highs, turning financing into a crucial decision that can add thousands of dollars to your purchase. A higher interest rate or unexpected fees can quickly inflate your monthly payment and the total cost of ownership.

A strategic approach—improving your credit profile, calculating the true cost of ownership, comparing multiple lenders, optimizing your down payment and timing your purchase—can help you save big and boost your approval odds. Below, you’ll find ten actionable tips, from reviewing and correcting your credit report to negotiating rate discounts and exploring certified pre-owned perks.

These recommendations are grounded in Consumer Financial Protection Bureau guidance, Federal Reserve rate data and hands-on expertise from Certified AutoBrokers. Follow these steps before you hit the showroom or shop online, and you’ll be ready to secure the smartest financing deal on your next used car.

Tip #1: Review and Improve Your Credit Score Before Applying

Your credit score is the cornerstone of any used car financing plan. It not only influences whether you get approved, but also dictates the interest rate you’ll pay over the life of your loan. Even a slight bump in your score can shave hundreds—if not thousands—off your total cost. Keep in mind: improving your credit takes time, so start working on it several months before you begin car shopping.

Why Your Credit Score Matters for Auto Loans

Lenders rely on credit scores to gauge risk. A higher score signals responsible borrowing behavior, so banks and credit unions reward borrowers with lower APRs. Conversely, a low score can bump your rate into double digits.

Here’s how average APRs vary by credit tier (Experian, Q4 2024):

• Superprime (781–850): New cars ~4.77%, Used cars ~7.67%
• Prime (661–780): New ~6.40%, Used ~9.95%
• Nonprime (601–660): New ~9.59%, Used ~14.46%
• Subprime (501–600): New ~13.08%, Used ~19.38%

Even a few percentage points make a huge difference on a $25,000 loan over 60 months.

How to Obtain and Interpret Your Credit Report

Start by pulling your free annual credit reports from Equifax, Experian and TransUnion at AnnualCreditReport.com. Reviewing them side by side can reveal inconsistencies or outdated information.

When you open your report, look for these key sections:

• Personal Information: Name, address and Social Security number
• Account History: Details of credit cards, loans and payment status
• Payment History: On-time payments, late payments and delinquencies
• Inquiries: Recent applications that triggered credit checks

For more on preparing for an auto loan, see the CFPB’s guidance on shopping for your auto loan.

Correcting Errors and Disputing Inaccuracies

Mistakes on your report—such as a closed account marked open or a late payment you actually paid on time—can cost you a better rate. Here’s how to dispute errors:

1. Identify the error and note the account details.
2. File a dispute with the credit bureau online or by mail.
3. Send supporting documents (statements, letters).
4. Follow up until the bureau resolves the issue (usually within 30 days).

For step-by-step advice, check the CFPB’s error-dispute guide.

Proven Strategies to Boost Your Credit Score

Boosting your score doesn’t have to be a mystery. Implement these habits consistently:

• Pay bills on time, every time
• Lower credit-card balances to under 30% of your limit
• Avoid opening new credit accounts in the months before applying
• Keep older accounts active to maintain a longer credit history

For a deeper dive into credit-improvement tactics, visit Certified AutoBrokers’ credit-improvement guide.

Tip #2: Calculate Your True Budget and Total Cost of Ownership

Before you settle on a sticker price, map out every dollar that leaves your pocket. The loan amount is just the starting point. Taxes, dealer fees, insurance premiums, routine maintenance and even gas add up—fast. By running the numbers upfront, you’ll avoid payment shock and steer clear of financial strain down the road.

Estimating the Loan Amount and Down Payment

First, decide on your target purchase price and how much cash you can put down or apply from a trade-in. Use this simple formula to find your projected loan principal:

loan_amount = purchase_price − down_payment

For example, if you’re eyeing a $20,000 vehicle and can afford a $3,000 down payment, you’ll finance $17,000. A heftier down payment shrinks your principal, which lowers both your monthly payment and total interest paid over the term.

Accounting for Taxes, Fees, and Insurance

Remember, you’re not just paying the dealer invoice. Plan for:

• Sales tax (typically 6–8% of your purchase price)
• Registration and title fees ($50–$200 depending on your state)
• Dealer documentation or “doc” fees ($100–$500)

Insurance is another game changer—especially on used cars, which can carry higher premiums if parts or safety features are older. Gather quotes early, so you know whether a $250/month payment really translates to $500/month all in.

Factoring in Maintenance, Repairs, and Fuel Costs

No matter how reliable the make, every used car will need oil changes, brake pads and unexpected repairs. On average, budget $500–$1,200 per year for routine service on a five-year-old vehicle. Mileage, model and condition can push that estimate higher—so check owner forums or consumer sites for real-world feedback.

Fuel costs depend on your driving habits and the vehicle’s efficiency. If you drive 12,000 miles a year in a 25 mpg car at $3.50 per gallon, expect about:

annual_fuel_cost = (12,000 miles ÷ 25 mpg) × $3.50 = $1,680

To get a comprehensive picture, try online ownership-cost calculators—like Edmunds’ True Cost to Own or Kelley Blue Book’s 5-Year Cost to Own tool—before committing to a loan. Pulling these numbers together now ensures your monthly payment really fits your budget for years to come.

Tip #3: Get Pre-Qualified or Pre-Approved Before You Shop

Before you start scouring listings or rolling into showrooms, line up your financing options. Securing a pre-qualification or pre-approval gives you visibility into your borrowing power, helps you compare rates on an apples-to-apples basis, and hands you a negotiation tool that dealerships can’t ignore.

Pre-Qualification: Soft Credit Checks to Compare Offers

Pre-qualification is an initial check that lenders run against your credit profile without triggering a hard inquiry. This soft check won’t ding your score, yet it still provides a snapshot of the rates and terms you might expect. To get pre-qualified, you typically share basic information—your income, employment history and an estimate of your credit score. Armed with these details, multiple lenders can send you nonbinding rate quotes. By lining up several pre-qualified offers, you can see which institution gives you the lowest APR or most favorable term before committing to a formal application.

Pre-Approval: Securing a Conditional Loan Offer

Pre-approval goes a step further by providing a conditional loan commitment. Unlike pre-qualification, pre-approval requires a hard credit pull and documentation—such as pay stubs, tax returns and proof of residence. In return, you receive a pre-approval letter that spells out your approved loan amount, interest rate and term length. This letter not only sharpens your budget but also boosts your bargaining power at the dealership: salespeople know you’re a serious buyer with financing already in hand. Just be mindful: each hard inquiry can shave a few points off your credit score, so limit pre-approvals to two or three lenders to protect your credit.

Organizing Loan Offers and Expiration Dates

Once you’ve gathered a handful of pre-qualified and pre-approved offers, it’s easy to lose track of details. Create a simple comparison chart to keep everything organized. Here’s a sample layout you can replicate in a spreadsheet:

| Lender                 | APR    | Term      | Monthly Payment | Offer Expires |
|------------------------|--------|-----------|-----------------|---------------|
| Certified Credit Union | 5.25%  | 60 months | $320            | 06/15/2025    |
| Online Lender XYZ      | 6.10%  | 72 months | $290            | 06/20/2025    |
| Regional Bank          | 5.75%  | 60 months | $310            | 06/18/2025    |

Tracking these key data points ensures you compare like terms and pounce on the best deal before those pre-approval windows close. With clear documentation and defined deadlines, you’ll walk into the dealership primed to negotiate both price and financing on your terms.

Tip #4: Shop Around Among Different Lenders for the Best Terms

No two lenders are alike—rates, fees and perks can vary widely between banks, credit unions, online lenders and dealership finance arms. Casting a wide net is your best bet for snagging the lowest APR and most favorable repayment schedule. While credit unions often boast rock-bottom rates, they usually require membership. Banks offer broad access and sophisticated online tools, but their rates can be higher. Online lenders move fast and live entirely in your browser, though their pricing may be less predictable. And dealer financing can be convenient—especially when paired with promotional 0% APR offers—but watch for hidden markups and fees.

Comparing APR vs. Interest Rate

When you’re evaluating loan offers, don’t get fooled by a tempting interest rate if fees pad the bottom line. APR (annual percentage rate) bundles your nominal interest rate plus any lender fees into a single figure that reflects the true cost of borrowing.

Here’s an example:FeatureLoan ALoan BNominal Interest Rate5.50%5.75%Origination Fee$300$0APR5.78%5.75%

Even though Loan A advertises a lower sticker rate, rolling that $300 fee into your balance pushes its APR above Loan B. Always compare APRs to know which deal actually costs you less over the life of the loan.

Pros and Cons of Banks, Credit Unions, and Online Lenders

Each lender type brings its own trade-offs:

Banks

• Pros: Nationwide branches, integrated checking/savings relationships, robust mobile apps

• Cons: Rates often sit above the market average; promotional discounts usually tied to high deposit balances

Credit Unions

• Pros: Member-only rates that can undercut most banks; personalized service in local branches

• Cons: Membership eligibility rules; fewer branches in rural areas

Online Lenders

• Pros: Lightning-fast approvals, entirely digital applications, transparent fee schedules

• Cons: No in-person support; rates can fluctuate daily based on market conditions

Dealer Financing

• Pros: One-stop shopping, occasional manufacturer incentives like 0% APR or cash-back rebates

• Cons: Potential for inflated pricing or added dealer fees; lump-sum rebates may not offset higher interest

Weigh these pros and cons against your priorities—do you value face-to-face service, or is a streamlined digital experience more your style?

Utilizing Auto Loan Aggregator Tools

Auto finance aggregators let you enter your info once and receive multiple rate quotes from a network of lenders. They’re a quick way to see who’s willing to compete for your business. Just remember, aggregator quotes are estimates based on preliminary data. Before you sign on the dotted line, confirm the details—APR, term, fees and required documentation—directly with the lender. That extra step ensures there are no surprises when you finalize your loan.

Tip #5: Optimize Your Loan Structure with Down Payments and Co-Signers

Your loan’s structure—the size of your down payment and whether you include a co-signer—can drastically alter both your monthly payment and your interest rate. By increasing the cash you put down and, when appropriate, adding a qualified co-signer, you’ll reduce the lender’s risk, which often translates into a lower APR. These tactics also help you avoid owing more than the car is worth (negative equity) and can improve approval odds if your credit is less than perfect.

Benefits of a Strong Down Payment

Putting 10–20% down on a used car is more than a rule of thumb—it’s a powerful way to shrink your loan balance and guard against depreciation. A healthy down payment:

• Lowers your loan-to-value ratio (LTV), calculated as
  

LTV = (loan_amount ÷ vehicle_value) × 100%  

Lenders see a lower LTV as less risk, often leading to better rates.

• Reduces the likelihood of being “upside-down” if the vehicle depreciates faster than you pay it off.
• Cuts your monthly payment, since you’re financing less principal.

If building a 10–20% down payment feels daunting, try automating your savings. Set up a recurring transfer—$50 or $100 per paycheck—into a dedicated car fund. Budget-tracking apps or simple spreadsheets can keep you honest, visualize your progress and make that goal feel achievable.

When and How to Use a Co-Signer

A co-signer is someone—usually a family member or close friend—with strong credit and stable income who agrees to share responsibility for your loan. Their presence lowers the lender’s perceived risk, which can unlock a lower interest rate or help you qualify for a loan you couldn’t secure on your own.

Ideal co-signer traits include:

• Excellent credit (FICO score above 700).
• Steady employment and income documentation.
• Willingness to review your payment schedule and stay involved.

To add a co-signer, both of you fill out the loan application together, providing personal details, proof of income and authorization for a hard credit pull. The lender evaluates both credit profiles before issuing terms. Be sure you and your co-signer understand the implications: if you miss payments, their credit takes a hit, too.

Balancing Risks and Responsibilities

While a co-signer can be a valuable ally, the arrangement carries real risks. Any late or missed payment damages both of your credit scores, and the co-signer is legally on the hook for the remaining balance if you default. To protect everyone involved:

• Draft a simple agreement outlining who pays when and how contributions are tracked.
• Set up autopayments for your share, so a payment slip-up never blindsides you or your co-signer.
• Consider alternatives, such as a secured credit-builder loan, if you lack a willing co-signer. These loans let you build credit and save cash in a locked account, without placing someone else at risk.

By combining a solid down payment with the right loan partner—or by choosing a secured credit product—you’ll optimize your financing structure, lower your borrowing costs and set yourself up for a smooth ride into ownership.

Tip #6: Negotiate Both the Vehicle Price and Financing Terms

Don’t assume the sticker price and dealer-offered financing are non-negotiable. Treat the purchase price and the loan terms as two separate conversations: you’ll often land a better deal by hammering out each piece individually. With your research and pre-approval in hand, you can drive a harder bargain on both fronts.

Using Your Pre-Approval as Leverage

Your pre-approval letter is your secret weapon. It tells the dealer you’ve already secured the financing you need—and at a known rate—so they must beat or match that offer to earn your business. Here’s how to deploy it:

• “I have a 5.25% offer in writing from my credit union. Can you beat that?”

• “I’m ready to buy today if you can match or lower my APR.”

Always ask the salesperson to put any competing rate quote in writing, including term length, monthly payment and all fees. That way, there are no surprises in the fine print and you maintain a clear comparison between your pre-approval and the dealer-backed loan.

Asking for Rate Discounts or Fee Waivers

Dealers sometimes pad profits with add-on fees—documentation charges, origination fees or prep fees. Don’t be shy about knocking these down:

• Inquire about manufacturer incentives, such as 0% APR promotions or cash-back rebates.

• Ask the dealer to waive or reduce the doc fee (“I’ve seen other dealers waive that $300 doc charge—can you do the same?”).

• Watch out for unsolicited markups on your APR; if the dealer’s rate is higher than your pre-approval, demand an explanation and insist they lower it.

By challenging each fee line item and highlighting competing offers, you’ll chip away at unnecessary costs and drive your out-of-pocket expenses lower.

Evaluating Add-On Products

After you lock in a good price and financing, the dealer will pitch extras: gap insurance, extended warranties, paint protection and more. These can have value, but they can also be overpriced. To avoid buyer’s remorse:

1. Finalize your loan before discussing any add-ons—once the money is in motion, you’ll have a firmer handle on what you can afford.
2. Compare the dealer’s price to independent sources (an extended warranty from a third party can cost 30–50% less).
3. Evaluate your risk: if you have sufficient savings or a comprehensive policy, gap insurance may be redundant.

Treat optional products as a separate decision, and be prepared to walk away if the price or terms don’t make sense. By negotiating in stages—first price, then financing, then extras—you’ll maximize savings and avoid paying for add-ons you don’t need.

Tip #7: Read Every Line of the Loan Contract Carefully

You may feel eager to sign and drive off in your new ride, but rushing through the paperwork can cost you down the line. A thorough review of your loan contract ensures you’re not blindsided by unexpected fees, unfavorable clauses or onerous penalties. Allocate some quiet time, bring a highlighter, and dissect each section—this step can save you hundreds or even thousands over the life of your loan.

Before diving into the fine print, grab a fresh copy of the contract and compare it against the pre-approval or rate quote you chose. Watch for any last-minute changes in APR, term or financed amount. If something doesn’t match, flag it immediately and get an explanation. Remember: once you sign, you’re legally bound.

Identifying Hidden Fees and Charges

Loan contracts often include line items that aren’t part of your advertised APR. Common extras to look out for:

• Origination fee: A one-time charge for processing your loan.
• Late-payment fee: A penalty for missed or delayed payments, sometimes a flat dollar amount plus a percentage of the missed payment.
• Prepayment penalty: A charge if you pay off the loan early—this can eliminate the interest savings you planned for.
• Title or documentation fees: Dealer-added costs for filing paperwork.
• Gap insurance premiums: If rolled into your loan, it increases the financed amount and interest paid.

Add these fees to your principal to see the true amount you’ll finance:

total_financed = loan_principal + origination_fee + gap_insurance_fee + doc_fee  

By including every charge in your calculation, you’ll know exactly what the lender is earning and what you’re paying.

Key Contract Terms to Understand

A few contract terms deserve extra attention because they shape your repayment journey:

• APR (Annual Percentage Rate): The cost of your loan, combining interest rate and mandatory fees into a single percentage.
• Term length: The number of months you have to repay—longer terms lower monthly payments but increase total interest.
• Payment schedule: Due dates, grace periods and the number of payments per year.
• Default consequences: What happens if you miss payments—repossession rights, accelerated balances or addition of collection costs.
• Principal balance: The amount you originally borrow, which declines as you make payments.
• Amortization: How each payment splits between principal reduction and interest; a slower amortization front-loads interest in early payments.

If any definition is unclear, ask the lender to clarify or provide examples showing how your balance will change over time.

What to Do if Terms Seem Unfair

Not every contract is set in stone. If you spot a problematic clause or suspect you’re being overcharged, here’s your action plan:

1. Ask for clarification: Politely request the lender explain any confusing term or unexpected fee.
2. Negotiate reductions: Request that origination, documentation or prepayment penalties be lowered or waived—put the new agreement in writing.
3. Verify written changes: Insist that any modifications appear on the final contract before you sign.

If the lender refuses to accommodate your concerns, don’t hesitate to walk away. You have the right to shop elsewhere—auto loans aren’t one­-off emergencies. Finally, check your state’s loan rescission period: some jurisdictions let you cancel the contract within a few days of signing, giving you an extra safety net if you reconsider.

By scrutinizing every clause and fee, you’ll avoid unpleasant surprises and drive home confident that your loan aligns with the terms you agreed to.

Tip #8: Consider Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles for Extra Assurance

Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) cars bridge the gap between new and traditional used vehicles. Unlike standard used cars—where condition and maintenance history can vary—a CPO vehicle has met manufacturer-defined age and mileage limits, passed a rigorous multi-point inspection and been refurbished to “like-new” standards. On top of that, CPOs come with factory-backed warranties and benefits you won’t get with a typical resale, giving you both peace of mind and stronger resale value down the line.

Benefits of Certified Pre-Owned Programs

CPO programs usually include:

• A comprehensive multi-point inspection covering engine, transmission, brakes, electronics and more
• Replacement of worn parts (filters, brakes, tires) to meet factory tolerance levels
• Extended limited warranty—often matching the original new-car coverage in duration or mileage
• Complimentary roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement or free scheduled maintenance for a set period

These perks reduce the risk of surprise repair bills and help ensure your CPO purchase remains reliable beyond the standard warranty.

Financing Perks for CPO Vehicles

Because CPOs carry less risk for lenders, manufacturers and credit unions often attach promotional financing rates or special terms to them. Typical incentives include:

• Low or 0% APR for qualified buyers
• Reduced origination fees or waived documentation charges
• Longer repayment terms at competitive rates

Before you shop, check manufacturer offers and remember to review our tips on how to buy a certified pre-owned car for guidance on spotting genuine CPO deals.

Weighing CPO Premiums vs. Savings

CPO vehicles usually command a price premium over their non-certified counterparts—often 5–10%. To decide if the extra cost is worth it, compare the premium against potential savings:

extra_cost     = price_CPO − price_non_CPO  
interest_saved = loan_amount_non_CPO × (rate_non_CPO − rate_CPO) × term_years  

For example, if a non-certified car lists at $20,000 with a 7% APR over 60 months, your total interest is about $3,712. A CPO version at $21,000 with a 3.9% APR over the same term carries $2,206 in interest. The $1,000 premium is offset by a $1,506 interest savings—and you still enjoy the added warranty and inspection benefits. Run this calculation with your own numbers to find your breakeven point and make a confident choice.

Tip #9: Explore Strategies for Financing with Bad or Limited Credit

If your credit history is spotty—or you’ve never borrowed before—getting a competitive rate can feel like an uphill battle. Lenders view subprime borrowers as higher risk, which usually translates to higher APRs and stricter terms. But that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. With the right approach—targeting sympathetic lenders, beefing up your down payment or co-signer support, and leaning on smart budgeting—you can still land a reasonable deal on a used car loan.

Finding Lenders That Work with Bad Credit

Not all lenders turn you away for a 580 score. Some specialize in subprime auto loans or operate “buy-here, pay-here” programs where the dealership itself underwrites your financing. These outlets can be a lifeline if banks and credit unions have shut their doors, but caveat emptor: interest rates often start in the mid–teens, and fees can stack up quickly. Before you sign anything, research customer reviews, look up Better Business Bureau ratings, and compare fee disclosures so you know exactly what you’re paying each month.

Leveraging Co-Signers and Larger Down Payments

A co-signer with solid credit can dramatically improve your odds—and your rate. Their healthy credit profile reassures lenders that payments will get made, which can shave points off your APR. Similarly, pooling together a bigger down payment—aim for at least 15–20% of the purchase price—lowers the loan-to-value ratio, reduces monthly payments and minimizes your chance of owing more than the car’s worth. If you’re short on cash, consider a short-term saving goal: even an extra $500 or $1,000 down can offset hundreds in interest over the life of the loan.

Additional Guidance for Subprime Buyers

Beyond financing, keeping your budget on track is critical. Free tools like Mint or You Need a Budget (YNAB) help you allocate every dollar, so you don’t miss a car payment. Build a small cushion—$500 to $1,000 in savings—before you drive off the lot; unexpected repairs or insurance bills can derail even the best-laid plans. For a deeper dive into buying with less-than-perfect credit, check out Certified AutoBrokers’ guide on buying used with bad credit, which outlines step-by-step strategies to strengthen your position and avoid common pitfalls.

Tip #10: Time Your Purchase to Take Advantage of Market and Rate Fluctuations

Even if you’ve nailed your credit, budget and lender shopping, you can still save by picking the right moment to pull the trigger. Auto loan rates and vehicle incentives ebb and flow with economic shifts and sales cycles. By aligning your used car financing with lower benchmark rates and peak dealer promotions, you’ll lock in better terms and shave dollars off both your APR and your purchase price.

Understanding the Bank Prime Loan Rate

Most auto loan offers are tied to the prime rate, which reflects the interest banks charge their most creditworthy customers. When the Federal Reserve raises or lowers its federal funds rate, banks typically adjust their prime rate in step. You can track daily updates on the prime rate via the Federal Reserve’s H.15 release.

A lower prime rate generally translates into more competitive APRs on used car financing—especially for borrowers with strong credit. Conversely, when the Fed tightens policy to cool inflation, you may see lenders hike rates soon afterward. Monitoring the prime rate gives you a sense of whether now is a buyer’s market or if it makes sense to wait for a rate pause or cut.

Best Times of Year to Buy and Finance

Dealers run promotions at predictable intervals when they need to meet sales targets or clear out old inventory. The end of the month and end of each fiscal quarter (March, June, September, December) often bring extra incentives—cash-back offers, waived documentation fees or zero-percent APR for qualified buyers.

Model-year turnover is another sweet spot. As new models arrive in late summer and early fall, dealers may discount the previous year’s stock to make showroom space. Holiday weekends (Presidents’ Day, Memorial Day, Labor Day) also tend to feature manufacturer-backed rebates and special financing on Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles. If you can time your purchase to coincide with these windows, you’ll get both a lower sticker price and potentially stronger financing deals.

Monitoring Economic Indicators and Rate Alerts

Beyond the prime rate, keep an eye on broader economic signals—Fed meeting minutes, inflation reports and employment data all shape future interest-rate moves. Financial news sites and Federal Reserve communications are good sources for anticipating shifts. Many online lenders and finance aggregators offer rate-alert tools: set your target APR, and you’ll get notified when offers dip below that threshold.

Even after you buy, stay flexible. If market rates drop significantly, refinancing within the first year can lower your payment and reduce total interest paid. Just be sure the savings outweigh any refinancing fees. By staying informed and ready to act, you’ll capture the best used car financing terms the market offers.

Ready to Secure Your Used Car Loan?

You’ve walked through every step—from boosting your credit score and mapping out all ownership costs to lining up pre-approvals, comparing lenders, structuring the right down payment or co-signer arrangement, negotiating price and financing, scrutinizing your contract, exploring CPO options, navigating subprime strategies and timing your purchase. Each tip builds on the last, giving you a clear roadmap to the most competitive rates and terms.

Now it’s time to put that plan into action. Gather your pre-approval letters, revisit your budget worksheet, and decide which lender and loan offer best matches your needs. Whether you’re ready to pull the trigger today or want to watch market indicators for another week, staying organized and proactive will ensure you lock in the deal you deserve.

When you’re set to go, head over to Certified AutoBrokers to take the next step:

• Browse our vehicle inventory and find your perfect match.
• Complete a quick finance application to get pre-qualified in minutes.
• Looking to sell or trade in your current ride? Start the process on our sell/trade page.

Every element of the buying process—selection, financing, trade-in or sale—is designed around transparency and convenience. Follow these tips, use our tools, and you’ll be cruising away in a used car that fits your budget and your life. Good luck, and drive safe!