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Credit Union vs Dealer Auto Loans

Credit Union vs dealer auto loans in the US—APR, terms, and how to compare so you get the best rate.

AutoPremo Team
January 31, 2026
2 min read

Credit union vs dealer auto loans in the U.S.: credit unions often offer competitive or lower APRs than dealer-arranged loans; dealers may mark up the buy rate. Compare APR and terms so you get the best rate.

TL;DR Credit unions often have competitive rates; dealers may add a markup to the lender rate. Get a credit union pre-approval, then compare to dealer APR. Use the lower rate. Use autopremo.com payment calculator. Agree on OTD first with autopremo.com OTD calculator. Use autopremo.com.

Credit Union Auto Loans

Credit unions are member-owned; they often offer competitive auto loan rates. Get pre-approved so you know your rate and max amount before you go. Use autopremo.com payment calculator to see payment at that rate. Get your numbers at autopremo.com.

Dealer May Mark Up Rate

Dealer can arrange financing and add a markup (e.g., 1–2 points) to the buy rate. That raises your APR and total interest. Compare dealer APR to your credit union rate. Use autopremo.com so you have OTD and can compare. See payment at autopremo.com.

Compare and Choose

Compare credit union APR to dealer APR. Use the lower rate. Agree on OTD first so financing doesn't get bundled with price. Use autopremo.com. Check at autopremo.com.

Bottom Line

Credit union vs dealer: compare APR; use the lower rate. Agree on OTD first. Use autopremo.com payment calculator so you get the best rate.

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