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Financing Basics

Understanding Vehicle Financing in Canada

Buying a vehicle is one of the largest purchases many Canadians make, and financing is how most people make that purchase affordable. Here's how it works.

When you finance a vehicle, you borrow money to purchase it and repay that amount over time through regular monthly payments. The lender pays the dealership for the vehicle, and you repay the lender over the agreed term.

A Typical Financing Agreement Includes:

Purchase Price

The agreed price of the vehicle

Down Payment

Amount paid upfront to reduce the loan

Loan Amount

Purchase price minus your down payment

Interest Rate

The cost of borrowing, expressed annually

Loan Term

Length of time to repay the loan

Monthly Payment

Your regular scheduled payment amount

Factors That Can Affect Financing

Lenders and dealerships consider a variety of factors when reviewing a financing application. These may include:

Credit History: Your past borrowing and repayment behaviour
Income: Your current earnings and income stability
Employment Stability: How long you have been with your current employer
Housing Stability: How long you have been at your current residence
Down Payment: The amount you can contribute upfront
Existing Obligations: Other debts or financial commitments you carry

Less-Than-Perfect Credit?

Having less-than-perfect credit does not automatically mean financing is unavailable. Many dealerships and lenders work with a variety of financial situations. The best way to understand your options is to complete an application and speak with participating dealerships.

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