Check your credit score and credit report
Set your budget for monthly payments and total loan amount
Gather proof of income, identification, and residence
Compare lenders, banks, credit unions, and online lenders
Submit a pre-approval application with your chosen lender
Provide accurate personal, employment, and financial information
Review the pre-approval offer, including rate, term, and loan amount
Confirm whether the pre-approval is a hard or soft credit inquiry
Get pre-approval documents or approval letter in writing
Use the pre-approval amount to shop for a vehicle
Finalize the loan with the lender after choosing the car