This page uses JavaScript. Your browser either does not support JavaScript or you have it turned off. To see this page properly please use a JavaScript enabled browser.
Register
Go to main content
Explore Products
Arrowhead Credit Union Arrowhead Credit Union
Locations
SIGN IN
Arrowhead Credit Union
Checking>Credit Cards>Auto Loans>Personal Loans>Home Equity>Mortgages>Savings>Certificates>Investments>IRAs>See More>

Car Buying Tips

Buying a Car During COVID-19

If you’re going to finance your vehicle purchase, this is also the right time to get pre-approved. Apply for an auto loan before you shop so you know how much vehicle you can afford.

Navigating Car Shopping in a Pandemic

location pin # 1

Getting Ready
Sites like Kelley Blue Book®, Edmunds©, and vehicle manufacturers are great sources of information about the vehicle(s) you're considering. From legroom dimensions to miles per gallon, and reviews from other buyers, you can find and compare nearly every detail about a vehicle online.

If you’re going to finance your vehicle purchase, this is also the right time to get pre-approved. Apply for an auto loan before you shop so you know how much vehicle you can afford.

location pin # 1

Shop
Car buying sites like AutoSmart (a free benefit of your Arrowhead membership) let you easily select the features you want and shows which dealerships have matching vehicles in stock. Most dealerships also have their inventory listed on their website.

If you’re in the market for a used vehicle, shop Enterprise Car Sales. Right now, Arrowhead members get .50% off their approved rate when they purchase with Enterprise and finance with us.1

location pin # 1

Test Drive
There’s a range of ways dealers are offering test drives; they may bring the vehicle to you, have you visit the dealership with safety protocols in place for contactless test drives, or offer a post purchase warranty allowing you to return the vehicle if you don’t like it. Whichever method you prefer, it’s best to contact the dealer to understand how they’re handling test drives.

Pro Tip: If you are already fairly certain about the vehicle you want, swap steps three and four – negotiate the price before the test drive. It doesn’t commit you to making the purchase and gives you the most leverage.

location pin # 1

Negotiate
By now you’ve likely seen every picture and 360o view of the vehicle you want to buy, and know how much it should cost. Negotiating the price is either your favorite (or least favorite) part of the process. If you love the back and forth, give the dealership a call. For those who prefer a more straightforward process, you can email/request a quote online.

If you find a better price for the same vehicle, email your preferred dealer and ask if they will match/beat that price.

Pro Tip: If negotiating isn’t your thing, check out Autoland. They shop, negotiate, and deliver the vehicle for you.

location pin # 1

Drive Away
Once you’ve agreed on a price, the dealer will either send you the paperwork electronically or ask you to visit the dealership to sign in person. If the latter is the case, remind them you’d like the paperwork ready when you arrive so you can limit the time you’re in the dealership.

Pro Tip: For the quickest process, use an Easy Does It Dealership partner. They have access to your Arrowhead loan approval, which saves a lot of paperwork.

Why Buy Now?

Buying a car right now may just get you the best price possible. With the lowest rates we’ve seen in awhile, you may just get the car you want at a payment you can really afford.


1 APR=Annual Percentage Rate. To qualify for the .50% discount borrower must purchase with Enterprise and finance with Arrowhead. Cannot be appied to a loan that is already funded at Arrowhead Credit Union. Used vehicles were previously part of the Enterprise short-term and/or lease fleet or purchased by Enterprise from other sources including auto auctions, with previous use possibly short-term rental, lease or other. Some restrictions may apply. The .50% discount is valid through 4/30/2024 and subject to end without notice.

Go to main navigation
Close Search Results Window

Search Results