Buy a New Car without Credit Hassles

To avoid the credit hassles when buying a new car, there are some easy steps you can take.

1. Get your credit report.
Verify your credit score. Get a current copy of your credit report from Experian, TransUnion and/or Equifax.

2. Get over 680.
If your credit score over 680? You are in great shape to buy a new car. Skip down to #6. Yours isn't? Keep reading.

3. 550 is the basement.
Is your score under 550? You are not in a position to buy a car. Learn how to repair your credit before you consider buying a new car.

4. Put on some makeup...
On your credit score. If you are above 600, but not up to 680, dress up your credit report. Correct incorrect information and resolve old debt. Make certain you do not have any late payments in the 90 days before you shop for your car.

5. Pay it off.
Never trade in a car if you still owe. Dealers are not diligent about paying off your old car, and their late payments go on your credit report. Plus, paying it off raises your credit score.

6. Shop for the perfect car.
No, this don't pick out a color to match your eyes. Find the car for your credit power. How? Put documents in a folder which answer these questions:

* What is the credit approval price for my car?
Your bank will tell you exactly what they will loan you for a particular car. This price is what you want to pay and need to demand from the car dealer. It is what you car is really worth.

* Does someone sell it cheaper?
Bring three quotes for the car you want from web sites like Cars.com, Edmunds.com or InvoiceDealers.

* Where's my rebate?
Find out how much car options (MP3 player/power windows) cost, rebates and incentives available to you. Find these at FinghtingChance.com.

* What will I pay?
Use an auto loan calculator to know exactly what you will be paying each month. Remember, you will also be paying for gasoline and insurance.

* How much is insurance?
Get a quote from your auto insurer for your new car.

* Does it come with a warranty?
Probably, but better ones are less expensive. Check out extended warranties online for a real idea of what a warranty covers and for how much.

* Can I get a loan?
Apply for an online or bank auto loan. Know that you can get the loan before you shop so the dealer cannot tell you no.

* Can I get 0% financing?
If you can, do. But, refinance the car. The 0% is for a short time, not the length of the loan. Pay as much as you can during 0% time, and get refinance loan for a reasonable APR for the balance of the loan.

* The dealer says my credit is bad.
Dealers have a secret: FICO Auto Industry Option Score. This is not the FICO Beacon score you bought from credit bureaus and have with you. You cannot see or buy a copy either. It is almost always be lower because it factors in your auto loan buying history. If the dealer insists on his score, shop somewhere else.

You can drive away in a new car with no credit hassles.