Consumer finance
Compare suitable car loans with a broker before choosing your next vehicle. Get help with new, used and eligible private-sale purchases, costs and next steps.
Updated 6 September 2026
You can explore a car loan before choosing the exact vehicle. Start with a budget and use the conversation to understand what still needs checking.
Yes. Comparing finance before shopping can help you set a realistic price range. A repayment estimate is a starting point; it does not establish what a lender will approve. If conditional approval is available, ask what remains outstanding and when it expires before relying on it for a purchase.
Some lenders consider private sales, but vehicle age, kilometres and condition can affect which lenders will consider the car. Tell the broker that the seller is a private individual. Ask which vehicle, seller and payment checks are needed, especially if finance is already owing. A conversation about your budget does not clear the vehicle for settlement.
Request both offers in writing for the same amount and term. Compare the comparison rate, fees and total repayments, and check whether either offer leaves a balloon payment. Keep the vehicle price separate from the finance discussion: a lower monthly repayment alone does not establish a cheaper purchase. Include registration, insurance and running costs in your budget.
Car loan review
“Kevin has provided the best possible service to us for securing a car loan, very highly recommended!”
The reviewer specifically described a car loan.
View reviews on GoogleCompare costs and conditions
Compare repayments, fees, conditions and any final payment together. An estimate is not a lender quote or approval.
Interest rate and comparison rate
Establishment, monthly and broker-related fees
Balloon or residual amount and the final repayment
Early payout conditions and flexibility to make extra repayments
Start without uploads. If you continue, a broker will explain which documents are relevant.
Common questions
There is no single amount for every applicant. Income, regular expenses, existing debts, deposit and the proposed vehicle all matter. A repayment estimate shows the cost of an amount you enter; it does not assess borrowing capacity. Share your budget with a broker to understand what a lender would need to check.
Yes. Use the repayment estimator for an indicative figure, then ask a broker about lender-specific pricing and fees.
Speak with a broker
Start online or call RateSmart. A broker will confirm the request and discuss suitable options. Submitting an enquiry does not lodge a credit application.
