Research & Guides

General Information and Blog Posts

General Information and Blog Posts from our team — in-depth shopping research, buying guides and dealership updates.

24 articles in blog-post
Upside Down on Your Car Loan? 5 Ways to Get Out

Blog Post 07/10/2026

Upside Down on Your Car Loan? 5 Ways to Get Out

Having an auto loan that's higher than the actual value of your car is a drag, but it doesn't mean you're stuck. Whether you decide to change up your monthly payment routine or look into a refinance, you can close that gap and get your finances back on track. Here are some solutions for an upside down vehicle loan to help you get back on track financially.

By Michelle N.

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How to Raise Your Credit Score 100 Points Before Buying a Car

Blog Post 07/10/2026

How to Raise Your Credit Score 100 Points Before Buying a Car

When you're trying to buy a truck or a car, but your credit isn't where it should be, bumping your score up by 100 points won't happen overnight, but it is possible over time. How long it takes for your numbers to move depends mostly on where you're starting out, what your past credit looks like, and the specific habits you choose to fix. Let's look at how to raise your credit score before buying a car here

By Michelle N.

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How Many Points Does a Car Loan Inquiry Drop Your Score?

Blog Post 07/10/2026

How Many Points Does a Car Loan Inquiry Drop Your Score?

When you’re out shopping for a new truck or SUV, credit checks are just a normal part of dealing with lenders and dealership finance managers. Even though these checks can clip your score a bit, the actual impact is pretty minor and doesn't last long. Let's break down exactly what happens to your credit score when you apply for a car loan.

By Michelle N.

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Can You Use a Credit Card as a Down Payment on a Car?

Blog Post 06/26/2026

Can You Use a Credit Card as a Down Payment on a Car?

When shopping for a vehicle, one of the first questions many buyers ask is how to cover the down payment. While cash, trade-ins, and bank transfers are the most common options, some consumers wonder whether a credit card down payment is possible. The answer depends on the dealership, the amount being charged, and the terms of your auto financing agreement.

By Melissa S.

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How to Remove a Cosigner From a Car Loan: 4 Options That Actually Work

Blog Post 05/27/2026

How to Remove a Cosigner From a Car Loan: 4 Options That Actually Work

If you’re trying to finance a car with little or damaged credit, a lender may require a cosigner, someone with better credit who agrees to take on the loan with you, and step in to make payments if you don’t. In other words, they’re putting their own credit and finances on the line to help you get approved. That kind of support can make buying a car possible, but it also ties both of you to the same debt. Over time, that arrangement may no longer make sense. Whether your cosigner wants out or yo

By Michelle N.

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Can a Cosigner With Bad Credit Still Help You Get Approved?

Blog Post 05/27/2026

Can a Cosigner With Bad Credit Still Help You Get Approved?

If you’re thinking about adding a cosigner to improve your chances of getting approved for a car loan, the assumption is usually simple: better credit equals better odds. But what happens when your cosigner doesn’t have great credit either? The short answer is that a cosigner with bad credit can help, but it’s uncommon, and in some cases, it can actually work against you. Find out how lenders evaluate cosigners with poor credit scores.

By Michelle N.

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Cosigner vs. Co-Borrower on a Car Loan: What's the Difference?

Blog Post 05/27/2026

Cosigner vs. Co-Borrower on a Car Loan: What's the Difference?

When a borrower tries to get approved for a car loan, but their credit isn’t strong enough on its own, bringing in another person can make the difference between them driving something off the lot and walking home. That’s where cosigners and co-borrowers come in. Both can help you qualify for financing, whether it’s a car, home, or even a credit card. But once the loan is approved, the roles each person plays and what they’re responsible for look very different. Find out when to use a cosigner v

By Michelle N.

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Pricing was accurate at the time of article writing. All pricing is subject to change. See the manufacturer and/or Dealer for up-to-date pricing.