What is a Car Loan & How does it Work?

Financial planning is of the utmost importance when acquiring a car so that it becomes as affordable and smooth as possible. Whether you’re eyeing a new or used car, finding a way to divide the cost can significantly ease the burden of a large, one-time payment.

Flexible financial options will open avenues to choosing the right fit, and you will probably drive away in a car that best fits your budget and lifestyle.

What is a Car Loan?

The best car loan definition is a financial agreement whereby a person borrows money to buy a vehicle. The loan would then be used to repay the money borrowed on a lending deal with some interest. Since the car is collateral, the lender will repossess the car if one cannot repay the cash. It is one of the most basic loans for people because it enables them to buy their dream car without paying the entire payment upfront.

How Car Loans Work?

A car loan allows a person to purchase a vehicle and pay for it over time through monthly installments. The lender assesses the buyer’s financial situation and creditworthiness to determine the loan terms, including factors such as the car’s price, interest rate, and the buyer’s credit score, which influence the loan amount and repayment terms.

Repayment is usually made in fixed monthly installments, typically ranging up to 84 months. If the borrower makes all payments, they retain full ownership of the vehicle. However, if payments are missed, the lender may repossess the car.

Advantages of Car Loans

Derived from car loan meaning and offerings, they provide several advantages:

1. Flexible tenure

It provides the flexibility of tenure for repayment. This is up to 84 months. This is helpful because borrowers can spread their EMI payments for a longer tenure, making this manageable and more accessible.

2. Fast processing

Most lenders offer streamlined digital processes, so applying for a car loan is quick and hassle-free. After submitting a simple online application and minimal documentation, the borrower can expect the balance to be in his account within a few working days.

3. Customised EMI plans

Almost all financiers allow customised EMI payments according to individual needs. This way, the borrower can extend or reduce the loan tenure so that the EMI amount remains comfortable and manageable for repayment in the following month.

4. Competitive interest rates

Car loans are offered at a very competitive interest rates, making it more affordable to buy a car without overstretching your pocket. You can use online EMI calculators to estimate your monthly payments when borrowing.

5. Instant approval

With modern online processes, several car loans offer instant approval after verification of the documents. This helps the borrowers gain speedy access to the required funds. This makes the whole loan process smooth and efficient.

6. Maximum loan amount

Car loans can offer finance up to Rs. 50 lakhs, allowing you to buy your dream car without any monetary hassle. Such a large amount supports all vehicles, from models for small budgets to expensive cars in luxury categories.

Eligibility criteria

A car loan is disbursed based on eligibility criteria for different individuals that encompass:

1. Salaried individuals

i. Applicants must be between the ages of 21 and 60.

ii. A minimum annual income of Rs. 3,00,000 is required.

iii. The applicant should have at least one year of work experience.

2. Self-employed individuals

i. Applicants should be between 21 and 65 years old.

ii. They must be proprietors of their business.

iii. The business must have been operational for at least one year.

iv. A minimum annual income of Rs. 3 lakhs is required.

3. Self-employed (Others)

i. A minimum annual income of Rs. 2 lakhs is necessary.

ii. The applicant must maintain an average bank balance (ABB) of at least 0.5 times the loan EMI.

Car Loan Application Process

Application for a car loan usually involves the following steps:

1. Online application

You must go to the lender’s official website to find the car loan meaning and application form. The information in this form includes your name, contact number, work status, and monthly income. Ensure that all information is correct so that it will not be delayed.

2. Upload documents

After completing the form, upload all the necessary documents online. The respective documents that a salaried employee or a self-employed individual would provide are as follows:

i. Identity proof: PAN card / Aadhaar card

ii. Address proof

iii. Salary slips and bank statements

iv. Income tax returns

v. Balance sheet

vi. Profit and loss accounts.

3. Verification

After you apply and submit all the documents, the lender will carry out an in-depth verification process. This will help establish whether the information you provided is correct and whether you qualify for the loan. Most lenders check your credit score, income stability, and employment history.

4. Approval

Once your loan application is verified error-free, a car loan lender will accept your car loan. Most lenders today give instant approvals; you can always check online to see if your approval is already available.

5. Loan disbursal

The loan amount is directly credited into your bank account, typically within a few working days of approval. Subsequently, you can purchase the preferred car with the disbursed loan amount and complete the process.

Conclusion

From new car loans to used car loans and refinancing, you can choose a loan that fits your needs. Whether you wish to buy your first car or are looking to refinance an existing loan, Tata Capital’s instant car loan ensures that every step of the process is quickly done and streamlined by simple application processes and dedicated customer care. Take the first step to make your dream of owning a car a reality.