Pay off auto loan? Or not to pay off auto loan?

[wsmitty]

Hi,

I have an auto loan for $28500 opened October 2005.  Today theres a $997 balance left on that loan and I plan to apply for a new auto loan or lease in the next few days. 

Is it a good idea to pay off my current auto loan before I apply for the new auto?  Or should I apply first then pay off the current auto loan?

I ask because I want the highest score possible when I apply for the new auto.  Would closing this account hurt my score?  Any advice is appreciated, thanks.

[Tuscani]

It probably won't make a difference either way.

[Anonymous]

It probably wont make a difference, but I would pay it off anyways. I just love paying things off.