Short version: decide your budget (deposit, repayments, insurance, fuel/charging) and check your credit score so there are no “surprises” worthy of a soap opera.
Compare lenders in Australia using the comparison rate, not just the headline interest rate, and watch fees, break costs and balloons like a hawk with a calculator.
Get pre-approval from a bank, credit union, broker or online lender before you test-drive—dealer finance can be quick, but sometimes pricier with add-ons.
Pick your flavour: secured car loan (lower rate, car as collateral), unsecured personal loan (more flexible), or a novated lease via your employer if salary packaging suits.
Have ID, recent payslips and bank statements ready; lenders love paperwork almost as much as they love consistent income.
Aim for a sensible term (around 3–5 years) so you’re not still paying for the car after the seats forget your shape.
Handyman
Handyman
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