What scores/criteria are they looking for?

[EaglesFan2006]

What are the scores needed for an auto loan, either bank or dealer?  Which is easier?  Are there any red flags or specifics they look for on a report that could blackball you?  'm confused because i see on the education area here that scores as low as 600 could get you a loan, yet in reading through forums i've seen some people post with scores in the low-mid 600s and people telling them they aren't likly to be approved

Could I call around and check with finance departments and see my likelihood?

[marty56]

I would print of a copy of each CR and take it to local CUs, banlkks or even a dealer and show it to them and ask if they would approve you.  They may say they cant tell you until they pull your CR but its worth a shot and wont cost and INQ.

[EaglesFan2006]

Could I call around places?  Could I ask for a loan officer or someone like that and get advice from them?

[marty56]

I wouldnt do that since showing them your CR would give them a better idea of was going on and a more accurate answer, if they are willing to do that.  I wouldnt trust a dealer since they will do anything to sell a car and you might get a really bad deal.  you could always go that route if the other idea doesnt work.

[Anonymous]

I've been going through this for a while as well, this is what my local credit union loan officer said for minimums:

Debt to income < 45%

Debt to Credit < 30%

She said that's the first thing they would look at, and past that it was pretty open. lots of other things that could black ball you obviously but these seemed to be the immediate concerns.