The Car-Buying Process

Decide What You Can Afford

Analyze your budget to determine how much you can afford to spend each month on an auto loan. Our calculator can help.

Get Preapproved

Before you visit the dealership, apply online or give us a call to get preapproved for an auto loan. Preapproval could help you negotiate a better sales price with the dealer.

Do the Research

In addition to deciding if you want a newcar or used car, research the car models that fit within your budget, and don’t forget to include projected maintenance costs. Doing your homework and knowing the true value of the car can help you get a much better deal during the negotiation process.

Begin your research now using our Car Buying Service, powered by TrueCar®.

Start Shopping

You could save money by shopping for your car at the right time. Sometimes car dealers will reduce prices at the end of the model year (usually late summer) and at the end of the month when they need to reduce stock. As you shop, be sure to test-drive the car in varying road conditions.

Get Insurance Quotes

Since you’ll need to be insured when you hit the road, now is the time to begin looking for car insurance. Rates can vary considerably between providers, so you’ll want to shop around for the best quote. 

Negotiate the Deal

Since you’ve done your research and know the value of the car, and you have your preapproval in hand, you can negotiate the best possible pricing for the vehicle. If negotiating seems like too much of a hassle, consider our Car Buying Service, powered by TrueCar, where you can search new and used vehicles online and see what others paid for the car you want. 

Secure Financing

If you haven’t already been preapproved, now is the time to work with Navy Federal to finalize the terms of your auto loan.^{Footnote [1]} Learn more about what to expect when you apply.