One benefit is it changes the type of buyer you are. You can provide an exact amount to the dealership based on your preapproval amount. This can save you from common problems people have at dealerships. Since you only have so much to spend, they can’t try to sell you more.
Another benefit is you’ll get a heads up on any issues. Applying or getting preapproved for a loan can be difficult, so knowing in advance can help you challenge and correct things on your credit report that are incorrect.
It can also help you budget as you’ll know exactly what you have to spend. Doing this in advance is far less stressful, instead of realizing there’s a problem when you attempt to buy the car first.
Along with applying for a car loan in advance, look at your
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.