Auto
Before setting your sights on your dream car it’s important to secure financing and insurance to ensure your vehicle is paid for and protected for miles to come.
Auto resources 101
Before setting your sights on a sedan or convertible, you must first sign off on the perfect auto loan for your financial needs. Take the following steps before getting behind the wheel of your new vehicle.
![Collage of car and keys with shapes Collage of car and keys with shapes](https://www.bankrate.com/f/102997/712x633/47599567ff/auto-dd-buy-1.png?auto=webp&optimize=high)
Shop around to find the best rate
Before you sign off on dealership financing, it is important to consider other sources of funding like banks, credit unions or online lenders.
![Bankrate's image file Bankrate's image file](https://www.bankrate.com/f/102997/712x634/f8f1f398e3/auto-dd-buy-2.png?auto=webp&optimize=high)
Lock in a rate by getting preapproved
Preapproval gives you a firm idea of how much you will be spending each month and lets you compare offers from multiple lenders.
![Family walking with realtor inside home Family walking with realtor inside home](https://www.bankrate.com/f/102997/712x633/6f4ad1b705/auto-dd-buy-3.png?auto=webp&optimize=high)
Be prepared for signing
To sign off on your new loan, you will likely need information like proof of income, address and insurance, along with your driver's license.
![Bankrate's image file Bankrate's image file](https://www.bankrate.com/f/102997/712x633/5b0440cbff/auto-dd-buy-4.png?auto=webp&optimize=high)
Begin making loan payments
You're now one step closer buying your vehicle! Now you'll just need to handle your monthly payments.
RECOMMENDED READING
Auto loan refinancing guide
How much car can I afford?
Auto loan reviews
Car insurance is a way to protect yourself financially if you are involved in a car accident or suffer a loss through fire, theft, vandalism or an act of nature. Car insurance is one of the most important parts of your financial portfolio, but how do you make sure you choose the best company for your needs?
Determine how much coverage you'll need
Evaluating your circumstances may help narrow down the selection of carriers and help you focus on one offering the coverage options you need.
![Bankrate's image file Bankrate's image file](https://www.bankrate.com/f/102997/712x633/c78bc09839/auto-dd-insur-1.png?auto=webp&optimize=high)
Shop rates and compare quotes
Find the right provider for you by shopping around
Once you know your needs, you can begin seeking out insurance companies that might align with your circumstances.
![Bankrate's image file Bankrate's image file](https://www.bankrate.com/f/102997/712x633/1d885e7715/auto-dd-insur-2.png?auto=webp&optimize=high)
Ready for your rates?
While the rates shown are a helpful starting point, they’re no substitute for personalized quotes. Answer a few questions to start your quotes in 3 minutes or less.
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Coverage.com, LLC is a licensed insurance producer (NPN: 19966249). Coverage.com services are only available in states where it is licensed. Coverage.com may not offer insurance coverage in all states or scenarios. All insurance products are governed by the terms in the applicable insurance policy, and all related decisions (such as approval for coverage, premiums, commissions and fees) and policy obligations are the sole responsibility of the underwriting insurer. The information on this site does not modify any insurance policy terms in any way.
Check reviews and ratings to see what others are saying
Verified third-party ratings available to take the guesswork out of finding companies with strong customer service and financial strength ratings.
![Bankrate's image file Bankrate's image file](https://www.bankrate.com/f/102997/712x665/5135849288/auto-dd-insur-3.png?auto=webp&optimize=high)
Bankrate Award winners
Bankrate Rating = 4.4/5
Bankrate scores are objectively determined by our editorial team. Our scoring formula weighs several factors consumers should consider when choosing financial products and services.
Bankrate Rating = 4.0/5
Bankrate scores are objectively determined by our editorial team. Our scoring formula weighs several factors consumers should consider when choosing financial products and services.
Bankrate Rating = 3.7/5
Bankrate scores are objectively determined by our editorial team. Our scoring formula weighs several factors consumers should consider when choosing financial products and services.
![](https://www.bankrate.com/f/102997/800x355/c7bb47f348/root-logo.png?auto=webp&fit=bounds&width=250&enable=upscale)
Bankrate Rating = 3.8/5
Bankrate scores are objectively determined by our editorial team. Our scoring formula weighs several factors consumers should consider when choosing financial products and services.
Find your best quote based on coverage
Comparing carriers highlights the difference in rates, but it also shows which carriers offer the coverage options and discounts you are looking for based on your needs.
![Bankrate's image file Bankrate's image file](https://www.bankrate.com/f/102997/712x633/d1cbf2d996/auto-dd-insur-4.png?auto=webp&optimize=high)
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Powered by Coverage.com (NPN: 19966249)
Coverage.com, LLC is a licensed insurance producer (NPN: 19966249). Coverage.com services are only available in states where it is licensed. Coverage.com may not offer insurance coverage in all states or scenarios. All insurance products are governed by the terms in the applicable insurance policy, and all related decisions (such as approval for coverage, premiums, commissions and fees) and policy obligations are the sole responsibility of the underwriting insurer. The information on this site does not modify any insurance policy terms in any way.
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