How to Analyze the Impact of an Auto Loan on your Credit Score?

Have questions about an auto loan having an impact on your credit score? Understand the real impact of hard inquiries, payment history and the importance of a credit mix. Once you understand the ways your credit score is affected by your financial choices, you can obtain an auto loan and even improve your credit score in the process.

A credit score is an important element that assists lenders to check your creditworthiness. A higher credit score displays a faith in your word that you will make payments on time. General questions that arise while auto loan shopping include: What happens when you apply for an auto loan to purchase a car? How does an auto loan change your credit score? Analyze the following points in the light of your current situation and understand how an auto loan will affect your credit score.

Does Applying for an Auto Loan reduce my Credit Score?

Often car buyers are worried about a drop in their credit score. But, do not worry about the reduction in your score. Learn how an auto loan impacts your score so that you can make an informed decision.

1. Hard Inquiries & Rate Shopping

The moment you apply for an auto loan and the lender requests your credit report, the inquiry is treated as a hard inquiry. Many inquiries from different lenders indicate a potential for degrading the credit score. However, the credit rating company observes the multiple inquiries as a single entry of auto loan shopping as long as the entries are within a limited time period. Timely payments, such as auto-generated payment models, will help you to recover any credit points that you lost because of hard inquiries.

2. Payment History

The most important element in a credit report is your payment history. Once the lender pulls your credit report, it will indicate your payment behavior. If you have ensured timely payments in the past and continue to walk on the same path in the future, your score will improve. However, losing out on a payment for a long period of time can damage your credit score and also put your car in the risk of repossession. Therefore, it is imperative to maintain your monthly payments as your payment history has the biggest impact on your credit score.

3. Variety of Credit

The different types of credit sources that are reflected on your credit report affect the lender’s decision. Also, it has an impact on your credit score. Many credit scoring models look at the number of credit cards you use on a regular basis. An auto loan is a different type of credit source, namely an installment credit wherein you repay the principal and interest amount spread over a few years. Obtaining an auto loan will be an additional variety of loan to your credit mix. And, it will give your credit score a definite boost.

Applying for an Auto Loan is Good for your Credit Score

After analyzing the impact of applying for an auto loan, the positive effects outweigh the negative elements. Make sure you check your credit report for any errors that may unknowingly decrease your credit score. Every year you are eligible to request free copies of your credit report. The decision to apply for an auto loan can help if you are responsible. Remember to have a payment plan because it will serve you as a financial foundation for strengthening your credit score in the long run.