Helpful Guide

Car Loan vs Personal Loan

Understand the main differences before choosing how to finance your next vehicle.

Car loan illustration with a vehicle, calculator, checklist and coins

If you're planning to buy a vehicle, you'll usually have two common borrowing options: a car loan or a personal loan. While both can help you finance your purchase, they work in slightly different ways and may suit different situations depending on your needs.

A car loan is specifically designed for purchasing a vehicle, with the car typically acting as security for the loan. Because the lender has that security, car loans often offer lower interest rates than personal loans. Personal loans, on the other hand, are generally unsecured, meaning you can use the funds more flexibly, but interest rates may be higher depending on your credit history and the lender's terms.

Before deciding, compare the total cost of each loan, including interest rates, fees, repayment terms, and any penalties for paying the loan off early. Taking the time to compare your options can help you choose the loan that best fits your budget and financial goals.

Quick Tip

Look beyond the monthly repayment. A lower repayment can still cost more overall if the loan term is longer or the fees are higher.

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