You may have explored the best prices for the used car you are planning to purchase or may have determined the worth of your trade-in but have you checked which interest rate would be the right choice for your second-hand car loan? The answer depends on many factors. A good interest rate on a used car loan entails a lot more than just having a lower rate. When you take a loan to buy a used car, you may have to choose between a fixed and a floating interest rate. If you are unsure about the differences and which one would be beneficial for you, then read on to know everything about fixed vs. floating interest rates.
To answer this question, you must have a thorough understanding of fixed or floating car loans.
This type of interest rate remains fixed throughout the loan repayment tenure and does not fluctuate with the changes in market conditions. It eliminates the risk associated with floating or variable interest rates. As external factors are not involved here, borrowers can know the exact amount for their future EMI payments.
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Under floating interest rates for used car loans, the interest rates are subject to quarterly revisions and fluctuate in response to market conditions or the RBI's benchmark index. It is sometimes referred to as a variable rate of interest as it fluctuates throughout a loan obligation.
When you apply for used car loans, the first thing that you consider is the interest rate. Fixed interest rates are usually higher than floating or variable interest rates. The difference in interest rates usually ranges between 1% and 2.5%. However, before making any decision on a fixed or floating car loan, keep in mind that floating interest rates are temporary and they keep on fluctuating.
The fixed interest rate on your used car loan is completely dependent upon your profile. The lender performs a used car loan eligibility check by looking into your income, credit profile, and your used car condition. If these conditions are satisfactory, the lender may grant you a used car loan at a lower interest rate. However, when it comes to the floating interest rates for a used car loan, external factors such as inflation, economic policies, and RBI policies also influence the floating interest rate. Therefore, borrowers do not have much control over floating interest rates.
When you opt for the fixed interest rate on your used car loans, the EMI remains fixed throughout the loan tenure. However, this is not the case with floating interest rates. The EMI keeps on changing with the change in the interest rate or MCLR/PLR.
When things remain constant, they are easier to manage. The same applies to fixed interest rates. Borrowers are aware of their EMI from the moment their loan is approved. When compared to variable or floating interest rates, budgeting is much easier with fixed interest rates.
If you compare the advantages and downsides of fixed vs. floating interest rates, you will find that each loan arrangement has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. It is all about your preferences and needs. If you choose a fixed interest rate for used car loans but later discover that a floating rate better suits your needs, speak with your lender about switching to the rate that best fits your budget.