 TITLE: How Does Buying a Car Affect Your Credit? CONTENT: How to Get Your Credit Ready to Buy a Car\n-----------------------------------------\nWhether you're in the market for a new or used car, chances are you'll need a car loan. To get the best possible loan terms, make sure your credit is in good shape before heading to the dealership to purchase a car.\nStart by getting a copy of your credit report and reviewing closely. Next, check your credit score to see where you stand. If you have a good credit score (many lenders consider this to be a FICO® Score of 700 or higher), you're more likely to qualify for desirable loan terms. If your score is in the exceptional range (800 or higher), you might even qualify for sweet deals such as 0% APR financing.\nLower credit scores generally translate into higher interest rates on your auto loan; over the course of the loan, this can really add up. If your credit isn't where it should be, improving your credit score before you go car shopping could save you thousands of dollars in interest costs. END