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Considering a new car, but unsure where to start? Here's our step-by-step guide to the car-buying process.

  1. Step 1

    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.

  2. Step 2

    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.

  3. Step 3

    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®.

  4. Step 4

    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.

  5. Step 5

    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. See how much you could save with a special discount on auto insurance from Liberty Mutual®.1

  6. Step 6

    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. 

  7. Step 7

    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.2 Learn more about what to expect when you apply.

Ready to get started?

Apply Now for a new or used auto loan

Disclosures

1

Liberty Mutual Insurance is made available to Navy Federal Credit Union members through TruStage™. Auto and Home Insurance Products are issued by Liberty Mutual Insurance Company or its subsidiaries or affiliates, 175 Berkeley Street, Boston, MA 02116 USA. © 2023 Liberty Mutual Insurance. In Texas, coverage provided and underwritten by Liberty County Mutual Insurance Company, 7900 Windrose Avenue, Plano, TX 75024. All statements made are subject to provisions, exclusions, conditions, and limitations of the applicable insurance policy. Coverages and features not available in all states. Discounts are not available in all states and discounts vary by state. Certain discounts apply to specific coverages only. To the extent permitted by law, applicants are individually underwritten; not all applicants may qualify. A consumer report from a consumer reporting agency and/or motor vehicle report will be obtained on all drivers listed on your policy where state laws and regulations allow. Please consult your policy for specific coverages and limitations. The insurance offered is not a deposit, and is not federally insured, sold or guaranteed by Navy Federal Credit Union. Navy Federal Credit Union is in no way responsible for any products or services provided by or through TruStage , Liberty Mutual or their affiliates, subsidiaries, and insurance company partners. Navy Federal Credit Union enables this insurance program to be offered and is entitled to compensation from TruStage Insurance Agency, LLC. © TruStage 

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2

Credit and collateral subject to approval.

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