Look into your financing options for a 4x4 vehicle to go off-road and out into nature with ease.
4x4 finance is for those who wish to get off the beaten path and explore more of the nature around them in the comfort of their own vehicles. However, finance for a 4x4 can be expensive as these cars are specifically designed to go off-road and are not your standard vehicle.
A 4x4 is a vehicle that has four wheels and is powered by four wheels. This type of vehicle is designed for going off-road and handling types of terrain that your standard vehicle cannot, such as rocks, mud and water. This is why a 4x4 is usually more expensive.
What options do you have to finance a 4x4?
There are many loans that you’re able to choose from when looking to buy your 4x4, including:
- Secured car loan. This loan advances funds for purchasing your vehicle. You’re able to borrow a range of dollar amounts, depending on the lender you choose. This option uses the vehicle as security, so if you get into an accident in your 4x4 on the weekend, you must still pay off the loan even though you might not have access to the car.
- Dealership finance. Dealership finance usually provides loans with little to no interest and a range of extras to be considered for your 4x4. However, these extras have a cost so this is something to keep in mind before applying for dealership finance.
- Novated lease. A novated lease is another word for salary packaging, which allows your car payments to come out of your salary pre-tax. This is ideal if you’re using your vehicle for work. It’s good to know that the salary you get from your employer is yours alone, as you’ve already paid off that vehicle expense.
- Chattel lease. This option works well if you’re looking to secure a vehicle for your business or specifically for work, as you’re able to get the money lent to your business to purchase the vehicle. If you need your 4x4 for work, it’s a good idea to consider this option.
Compare 4x4 loan options
How much will it cost to finance a 4x4?
Prices for a 4x4 range from brand to brand but can start from $20,000 and go as high as $70,000. This is just the price of the vehicle alone without factoring in any other costs, such as fuel, replacement tyres, registration, insurance and other extras that you might not realise you need. Some extras are useful but expensive, such as a light bar that can be attached on the top of your vehicle and the installation of a bullbar to ensure that if you do hit something, it’ll cause as little damage as possible. The price of bull bars can range from $275 for the parts as well as having to pay to have them installed on your vehicle. Factoring in these extras and the cost associated with them is important, before you apply for finance.
How to compare your loan options
Comparing your loan options is always tricky if you don’t know what to look for. Be sure to compare the following points:
- Will your loan be secured or unsecured? Knowing whether or not your loan is secured or unsecured is helpful as there are higher rates associated with an unsecured loan. With a secured loan, the rates are lower as there’s less risk to the lender. However, this means that if you’re unable to make your payments, your vehicle is used as security for the loan and might be a casualty.
- What’s the interest rate? The interest rate applied to your loan is always one to consider as this is the percentage that directly impacts your repayments. Interest rates can start from 6.99% p.a. and range as high as 22% p.a.
- What’s the minimum loan amount? The minimum loan amount is the least you are able to apply for. If you only need a small amount, look into lenders that can provide it for you. There’s no point getting excited about a lender only to realise that the minimum amount is too large for the amount you want to borrow.
- What’s the comparison rate on the loan? The comparison rate is the rate you need to keep an eye on, because it factors in interest rates, fees and charges. The comparison rate allows you to compare loans on offer from different lenders.
- Is there an application fee? There is more than likely going to be an application fee when you apply for the car loan you’re after. Knowing how much this is going to cost in advance will lessen the shock when you look at your bank account.
- Is there repayment flexibility? Many lenders offer the ability to tailor your repayments to a weekly, fortnightly or monthly schedule. Knowing if there is repayment flexibility can ease the strain of a loan if you’re able to tailor your repayments. However, not all lenders allow this flexibility so look into it before applying.
Is there anything to avoid when financing a 4x4?
Although it might be tempting to get a 4x4 with all of the extras because you just know you’re going to be out in the bush, take a step back and reconsider what extras you actually need. Thinking you should get a bullbar in case you hit a kangaroo is all well and good, but consider where you plan on using the 4x4 and choose your extras accordingly. You might realise that you don’t even need it.
Another thing to consider is the habit of using the credit available to you to bail you out if you’re in a tight spot financially. Getting the car of your dreams is all well and good, but it won’t be beneficial if you’re unable to drive it because you can’t afford the repayments. Look into your financial situation before making a final decision on financing.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a difference between a 4x4 and a part-time 4WD?
Yes, there is. A 4x4 has been designed to carry higher loads and travel in adverse and difficult terrain for the lifetime of the vehicle. A part-time 4WD provides the ability to use those advanced features when you need them instead of having access to them over the lifetime of the vehicle.
Do I need insurance?
It’s always worth looking into getting insurance, especially if you’re going to be heading off-road. If you’re unsure about your options, look around here.
Can I get pre-approval? I’ve found a 4x4 but it won’t last long at this price!
Getting pre-approval depends on the loan option you go with as well as which lender you choose. Pre-approval might be something that is offered, but this is not the case with all lenders. Check with the lender you’ve chosen to see if you can benefit from pre-approval.
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