 TITLE: Why You Should Avoid Long-Term Auto Loans CONTENT: How Your Credit Score Affects Your Auto Loan\n--------------------------------------------\nIs your credit score the only thing standing between you and your dream car? Having poor credit may make it harder to get an auto loan or may limit your options to high-interest loans. A FICO® Score☉ of 670 or above is considered \"good\" and can open the door to a car loan with a better interest rate (and lower monthly payment) than you'll get if your credit is only fair.\nBefore you start shopping for auto loans, check your credit report and get a free credit score to find out where you stand. Even if your score is good, why not aim for \"excellent\"? For example, those tempting 0% interest auto loan offers are typically reserved for those with the best credit scores.\nYou can improve your credit score fairly quickly by practicing these positive financial habits:\n*   Pay down existing debt, such as credit card balances.\n*   Avoid taking on new debt or applying for credit cards.\n*   Pay all your bills on time.\nSigning up for Experian Boost™† can be another quick way to improve your credit scores. This free service gives you credit for on-time phone, utility and Netflix® bill payments, which don't normally show up on your credit report. END