HomeAbout UsCalculatorsApplicationsRatesMembershipContact Us
State Department Federal Credit Union
Account AccessChecking and SavingsLoansHome LoansCredit CardsServicesNewsYouth
Checking and Savings
Auto Buying Center
Car-buying can be made easy with State Department Federal Credit Union. You'll know what kind of vehicle price-range to look for when you get your loan pre-approved from SDFCU. We're here to help you with all of your car-buying needs, whether it be finding your perfect car with our Auto Buying Services or financing a low rate auto loan.

Click here for more information on our Auto Loans.

Continue reading below to see all the added benefits of financing your car through State Department Federal Credit Union.

Vehicle Pricing
Visit our easy to use Vehicle Pricing page to search for a new or used vehicle, RV, Boat, Motorcycle, ATV, Personal Watercraft, or Limousine. You can also determine the value of your current vehicle. Search for your vehicle based on its make and model, or the payment you prefer. You'll also be able to compare the options and values of different automobiles.

Auction Cars For Sale
Get a great deal on our Auction Cars.

Auto Buying Services
State Department Federal Credit Union has car buying services to help you save time and money. Our car buying services, great financing options, and low interest rates make it easy for you to drive away in your dream car today!

Carfax
Carfax, the only comprehensive nationwide vehicle history service, provides valuable information on used cars and light trucks to businesses and consumers.

GAP Insurance
Now you can protect yourself if you car is totally damaged in an accident. The value your insurance company will place on your car may be substantially less than the amount you owe.

Mechanical Breakdown Insurance
Get all the protection you need with our Mechanical Repair Coverage from Mercury, Inc. This insurance provides repair cost protection beyond the manufacturer's warranty on new or used vehicles.

SDFCU Car-Buying Tips
Touch-up on terms and receive advice on buying new and used vehicles.

Finding a used car
Finding a new car
Tips before buying
Purchasing your car

Visit the following links to research safety and maintenance issues for new and used vehicles.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
     Research vehicle safety issues

Better Business Bureau
     Automobile section provides consumer information

Finding a used car
  • Ask people you know about their experiences and satisfaction with their cars - would they buy the car again?


  • Check auto and consumer magazines for information on the reliability records of various models. The annual Consumer Reports Guide to Used cars can be particularly helpful.

  • Find out if the vehicle you're interested in has ever been recalled for safety defects by visiting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's web-site or call their toll-free hotline at (800-424-9393).


  • Find out the retail and wholesale price of the vehicle you're interested in buying. This will improve your negotiating position.

  • Test drive the vehicle you plan to buy and have a mechanic you trust do an independent inspection.


  • Ask the seller if the car has ever been in an accident. Check for rust, dents, paint discolorations, etc. Also look for these signs of odometer tampering: white lines between the numbers that do not line up, or vibration of the 1/10-mile numbers while the car is moving.


  • Keep the original or copy of the Buyer's Guide sticker when you purchase the vehicle in case anything goes wrong and there is a question regarding the dealer's liability.


  • Make sure any oral promises made by the dealer are included in the sales contract or your Buyer's Guide sticker.
Finding a new car
  • Decide which options you need and those you can live without. Costly options can drive up the price and might not be worth it in the long run.


  • Compare the cost of extended warranty packages to the cost of repairs you might realistically incur.
Tips before buying
  • Before you go to the dealer, try to arrange financing. Be sure to check SDFCU's financing options first. You can get pre-approved for an auto loan with our online loan application. We offer vehicle loans with low rates and low monthly payments.


  • When you are ready to actually go look at cars, take someone with you whose experience and judgment you trust.


  • Do not sign any documents until you have read and understand them. Make sure there are no blank spaces, all of the salesperson's verbal promises are included, and the type of warranty that comes with the car is spelled out.


  • If you are required to make a deposit, ask whether it is refundable and under what circumstances, and make sure the information is also included in the contract (the contract may be your only receipt).
Purchasing your car
  • Make sure you read all contracts carefully and don't allow yourself to be rushed.


  • Make sure all the blanks are filled in before you sign.


  • Don't accept a deal if there are added fees that you don't agree with. Ask for a new contract to be prepared and check that one, too. If at any time you don't like the deal, just walk away.


  • If you've already financed your purchase and later discover you could have gotten a better deal with your Credit Union, simply call us. If you qualify, we'll help you move your loan over to State Department Federal Credit Union!


Back to Top
Auto Loans/Car Buying
Boat Loans
Home Loans
Loan Calculator
MoneyLine
Online Loan Application
Personal Loans
Shared Secured Loans
Student Loans
Applications
Automatic Payment Transfer
Fee Schedule
NCUAEqual Housing LenderVerified by VisaMasterCard SecureCode  
© Copyright 2006 State Department Federal Credit Union | Internet Privacy Policy | Questions? Comments? Contact Us.