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Whether you want extra cash for a specific goal or are just looking to revamp your budget with inflation and rising costs, lowering your motorcycle payments can help open up some extra cash month to month – but how?Here’s the short answer.The only way to lower the monthly payment on a motorcycle loan is to change your loan terms, either by modifying your loan with your current lender or refinancing your loan. For most people, refinancing will be the better option, because you have more leverage when changing loan providers and can usually get more favorable loan terms that way. The exception would be if you have particularly bad credit or are otherwise not a good candidate for refinance.Read on to learn how motorcycle financing and refinancing works, what makes someone a good candidate for refinance, and the steps to start your refinance and secure a lower motorcycle payment.The Complete Guide to Lowering Your Monthly Motorcycle PaymentIn this guide, we’ll cover:How motorcycle loans workHow refinancing can lower a monthly motorcycle payment What determines motorcycle loan APRs (Annual Percentage Rates) How to make yourself a good refinance candidateThe steps to refinancing a motorcycleHow Motorcycle Loans WorkA motorcycle loan is a secured loan used to help finance a motorcycle. A motorcycle loan works the same way as a car loan. A financial institution (the lender) pays for your motorcycle, and you in turn repay them in monthly installments with an additional fee, interest, for the convenience of borrowing money. Your motorcycle is considered collateral, and if for any reason you cannot repay the lender, your motorcycle will be taken away (and any money you already paid will not be returned). The term “secured” refers to the use of collateral.Motorcycle loans have a principal, which is the price of the motorcycle, plus any taxes and fees, minus any down payment you make. This principal is the base of your loan, and then interest will be applied to that principal. The interest is calculated using a motorcycle loan Annual Percentage Rate, or APR, which is based off of market rates and off of your personal financial situation. How refinancing lowers monthly motorcycle payment In short: Refinancing can lower your payment through securing a lower interest rate, changing the loan term, or both.When you refinance, you are paying one loan off with another loan. The new lender pays off the old loan and you repay the new lender in monthly installments. The new loan will have a different APR and repayment plan, ideally with better terms for your unique financial situation. By securing a lower APR, you can save money every month. You can also accelerate your payment plan, which will allow you to pay your loan off faster and save money (lower APRs are traditionally offered to loans with shorter repayment plans). Or you can refinance a motorcycle loan to a longer repayment period and cut your payments every month.Refinancing your motorcycle is the best way to lower your monthly motorcycle payment and save money on your motorcycle loan. What determines the Annual Percentage Rate (APR) on a motorcycle loanMotorcycle loan APRs are determined based on:Market factorsCredit score and credit historyIncomeLoan termThese factors are important to understand if you want to lower your monthly motorcycle payment.Market FactorsThe economy’s performance will help dictate what APR you are offered. Interest rates are set by the Federal Open Market Committee. If they decide that spending needs to be encouraged, they will lower interest rates. In the past several years, interest rates have varied pretty drastically, so whether or not you can save by securing a lower interest rate may depend on when you took out your motorcycle loan.Credit Score And HistoryThe biggest factor for your motorcycle loan APR (that you can control) is your credit score. Lenders use them to determine how likely you are to pay back a loan. Your credit score looks at the following categories: Payment History. Are your payments consistently full and on time? Amounts Owed. How much money do you owe on your accounts?Credit History Length. How old are your accounts? Credit Mix. Do you have a healthy mix of different types of accounts and debts? New Credit. Do you have a lot of hard inquiries on your credit? Do you have some brand new debts? All of these factors are looked at when determining your credit score (and therefore your motorcycle loan APR). The higher your credit score is, the better motorcycle loan APR you will be offered.IncomeLenders will also look specifically at your income to determine your motorcycle loan APR. Your income compared to the amount of debt you are in will indicate to lenders if you will be able to repay your loans.The Loan TermThe longer the loan term is, the higher the interest rate you are offered will be. Lenders will often offer lower rates for shorter terms. This means that if you select a longer lease period, you are not only paying a higher car loan interest rate, but you are paying it for a longer period of time. You will ultimately end up paying a lot more money overall by selecting a long repayment period.What makes someone a good candidate for refinance The key factors that make you a good candidate for refinance are:You credit score and historyYour incomeYour down payment (original down payment or ability to add more at time of refinance)Your desired loan termYour vehicleThe age/time left on your current loanThe steps to refinancing a motorcycleTo start, getting a preliminary quote to see how much money you could potentially save requires no commitment or hard credit check.Once you’re ready to get serious about refinancing, you’ll want to:Review your creditGather your documentsGet quotes from multiple lendersCompare offersChoose your best offer and start savingReview your credit.Make sure your credit score is looking good. It is so important to have a good credit score when you are refinancing. That is how you can make sure you save the most money. If your credit score isn’t great, wait a few months before refinancing and work on improving your score. Focusing on making on time payments and paying down debt can have a huge impact on your score.Gather your documents.Gather all of your documents, including your original loan documents. You will need a photo ID, your vehicle’s information (may include the bill of sale, VIN number, make, model, and year of your car), proof of income and financial history, proof of residence, and proof of insurance. Scan them and upload them so you are ready to go when the time comes to apply.Get quotes from multiple lendersYou should aim to apply to 3-5 lenders so that you have enough offers to compare in a short period of time, to avoid multiple inquiries on your credit. When you choose to refinance with Auto Approve, we shop around for you and save you the hassle. We have relationships with lenders across the country, which means we can find you the best deals and save you the most money. Compare your offers. You want to look at the motorcycle loan APR, the repayment period, the prepayment penalties, and the customer service ratings when making your decision. When the deals come in, the experts at Auto Approve can help walk you through your options to help you find the best loan for you. Choose your best offer and start savingOnce you decide what loan is right for you, it’s just a matter of signing on the dotted line! We can even help you with all of the paperwork (including the DMV!) That’s it! Refinancing really is so simple when you choose Auto Approve.Now You Know How To Lower Your Monthly Motorcycle PaymentRefinancing your motorcycle is the best way to lower your monthly motorcycle payments. And when you choose Auto Approve for your motorcycle refinance, you’re in good hands. Auto Approve has a 96% would-recommend rating on LendingTree as well as an A+ rating from Better Business Bureau. So don’t wait any longer – get your free quote today!

Auto refinance can be confusing when you don’t recognize the terminology. Learn key vehicle refinancing words, terms, phrases, acronyms, and definitions with this in-depth refinance dictionary and demystify the car loan refinance process.Table of ContentsAmortizationAPRCo-borrowerCollateralCo-signerCredit ReportCredit ScoreCurrent BalanceDepreciationDown PaymentFinance RateFICO Credit ScoreGAP InsuranceHard InquiryInterest RateKelley Blue Book ValueLienLoan ModificationLoan TermNon-Sufficient Funds Fee (NSF)Original Loan AmountPayoff AmountPrepayment PenaltyPrincipalProof Of EmploymentProof Of InsuranceProof Of ResidenceRefinanceSecured LoanSoft InquiryUnderwaterUnsecured LoanUpside DownUsury LawHow to use this guideFamiliarize yourself with these terms before you dive into the refinance process. This glossary is organized alphabetically so you can bookmark it and return to it when a word or phrase trips you up as you refinance your vehicle.Essential Auto Loan Refinance Terms & DefinitionsAmortizationHow your loan payments are scheduled and divided up to pay the interest and the principal. An amortization table can show you how your payments will be allocated throughout your repayment period.Annual Percentage Rate (APR)This figure, expressed as a percentage, is your interest rate plus any additional fees you are responsible for. It is important to consider a loan’s Annual Percentage Rate, or APR, as it gives a much more accurate idea of how much you will be spending on your car loan.Co-borrowerA co-borrower is a person who will share joint responsibility of the loan with you. This is different from a co-signer because a co-borrower is always considered jointly responsible for a loan, while a co-signer is only responsible for payment when the primary borrower defaults.CollateralCollateral is an asset that secures a loan. For example, if you were to stop making your car payments and default on the loan, the bank would be able to take your car as payment. The car is the collateral on a car loan.Co-signerA co-signer is a person who agrees to back a loan if the primary borrower defaults on it. They do not share joint responsibility for the loan like a co-borrower does.Credit ReportYour credit report is your personal financial history: it tracks what accounts you have open, your payment history with each account, and the balance you have on each account. These reports are created by the three major credit bureaus: TransUnion, Equifax,and Experian. You should routinely check your credit report to ensure there are no errors. Lenders will request a copy of your credit report to determine if you are a good candidate for a loan.Credit ScoreA credit score is a three digit number that is calculated based on a person’s financial history to indicate your creditworthiness. The numbers range from 300 to 850, and the higher your score is the more creditworthy you are considered. Your credit score is one of the biggest determiners of the car loan interest rate you are offered (the biggest factor that you can control at least).Current BalanceThe amount that you currently owe on your vehicle loan.You can typically find this amount listed on your monthly statement.DepreciationThe loss of value that occurs as an asset ages and wears. Vehicles typically depreciate from the moment they leave the new car lot, with rare exceptions for vintage cars and unusual market conditions.Down PaymentThe down payment is the cash paid up front for a vehicle (or any purchase) when procuring a loan. This amount is not financed. You should aim to put down at least 20% of the car’s total cost. This will help you to stay ahead of the depreciation that occurs.Finance RateFinance rate is another term for APR.Your loan’s finance rate is your interest rate plus any additional fees you are responsible for. FICO Credit ScoreA person’s credit score as calculated by Fair Isaac Corporation (FICO). There are other data analytics companies that will calculate a credit score, but FICO is the most popular and widely used.GAP InsuranceGAP stands for Guaranteed Asset Protection. This is optional coverage that covers the difference between your vehicle’s value (which is what insurance will pay) and the amount that you owe on your car in the event of an accident. Let’s say your car is totalled and your insurance pays you the value of your car, which is $15,000. But you still owe $17,000 on your loan. GAP insurance will cover this difference so you are not paying out of pocket.Hard InquiryA formal request of your credit history from a lender. When a lender considers approving a loan for you, they will request a copy of your credit report to review. This request will actually show up on your credit report and will cause a temporary ding on your credit score. Hard inquiries cannot be made without your permission.Interest RateThe interest rate is the cost of borrowing money, expressed as a percentage of the amount borrowed. The interest rate you are offered will be based on the market rates, your credit score and financial history, your income, and other factors.Kelley Blue Book ValueThe value of a vehicle according to American vehicle valuation and automotive research company Kelley Blue Book.Kelley Blue Book is viewed as a reputable and reliable place to check your car’s value. The value will be based not only on the make, model, and year of your car, but also on the mileage and condition of the car. It’s a good idea to keep an eye on the value of your car throughout the loan period to ensure that depreciation is not outpacing your loan payments (see “Underwater” and “Upside Down”).LienA lien is a lender or creditor’s legal claim to an asset if you fail to repay a debt.When you get a car loan, the lender has a lien on your car, so if you do not pay your debt to them, the car will belong to them.Loan ModificationA change to your loan, as reported to the credit bureaus by your lender.If you refinance your loan with the same lender, they may report it to credit bureaus as a loan modification rather than a new loan. This will not affect your credit score as a new loan would.Loan TermThe loan term is the amount of time you have to pay back your car loan and typically ranges from 24 to 84 months. The loan term is also known as the repayment period. Changing your loan term can lower your monthly payments or the amount you pay in interest.Non-Sufficient Funds Fee (NSF)If one of your payments does not clear or there are not enough funds in your account to cover a payment, you may be charged a Non-Sufficient Funds, or NSF, fee. This type of fee may be charged by your lender, your bank or credit union, or both. On the lender side, the amount should be listed in your contract.Original Loan AmountThe original loan amount is the amount of money originally borrowed from a lender to pay for a vehicle. It is typically the cost of the car plus taxes and fees, minus the down payment made.Payoff AmountThe payoff amount is the amount you will need to pay to get rid of your loan entirely. This is separate from your current balance, which may not reflect the interest and fees that you would be responsible for if you want to pay off your loan entirely/early.Prepayment PenaltyA fee for paying off your car loan early. These penalties may be listed in your original car loan contract. These penalties are designed to offset the losses in profit that occur when you pay off your loan early. Prepayment penalties will at times offset any savings that refinancing can provide, so it’s important to know what these penalties are before you commit to refinancing your car loan.PrincipalPrincipal is another name for the original loan amount. It is the amount of money initially borrowed to purchase a vehicle. When you make your monthly payments, your money is first applied to taxes and fees, then applied to interest that is due, and the remainder goes to paying down your principal.Proof Of EmploymentA statement or document that shows you are employed. This proof may be a paystub, a letter from your employer, or a W2. This shows the lender that you have means to repay your loan.Proof Of InsuranceA statement or document that demonstrates you have coverage and the amount of that coverage. To show that you have insurance coverage, the lender will usually require a copy of your insurance policy that states the amount of coverage. Proof Of ResidenceA statement or document that confirms your place of residence.You will need to show where you actually live as part of the refinancing process. This cannot be a PO box. Lenders want to know where the car will physically be parked in case they need to seize it should you default on your loan.RefinanceA refinance is when you pay off your current loan with a new loan. Your new loan will ideally have a better interest rate and/or better terms. Refinancing your car allows you to add a cosigner or co borrower, change your interest rate, and change your repayment period.Secured LoanA loan that is backed by collateral, such as a car loan. If a person defaults on their loan, the collateral is taken as payment. In the case of a car loan, the car is the collateral.Soft InquiryA soft inquiry is a kind of credit check that allows lenders to review your credit score and part of your credit report without it counting as a hard inquiry. Also known as a soft pull, this is common when getting preapproved for a loan. Soft inquiries do not affect your credit score and your approval is not required for a soft inquiry.UnderwaterA vehicle loan is considered “underwater” when the amount owed on the loan is greater than the worth of the vehicle. For example, if the market value of your car is $15,000 but you owe $17,000 on your car, it is considered underwater. This happens when depreciation outpaces payments. It is common for this to happen if you do not make a down payment (or make too small of a down payment). Unsecured LoanA loan that is not backed by an asset for collateral. These loans tend to have higher interest rates because they are higher risk for the lender.Upside DownUpside down is the same as being underwater, in loan terminology. It is when you owe more on your car than your car is worth.Usury LawThe law that defines the maximum amount of interest a company can charge in your state. Learn These Terms To Make Refinancing Your Car Loan Less ConfusingAnd here’s one more helpful name to remember: Auto Approve.At Auto Approve, we take the mystery out of refinancing, helping you find the refinance that’s right for you and handling the paperwork – even the DMV! Find out just how much money you could save by sharing a few simple details, no commitment required.GET A QUOTE IN 60 SECONDS

Thinking about purchasing a crossover, but not totally sure what the difference is between a crossover and an SUV? Here’s what you need to know about what makes a crossover a crossover.While crossovers can include a relatively wide range of vehicles, there are some characteristics that tend to be common across crossovers, like a unibody construction (vs. the body-on-frame construction typical of SUVs). Read On To Learn Everything You Need To Know About CrossoversIn this article, we’ll cover:The definition of a crossover vehicleExamples of crossover vehiclesCommon characteristics of crossoversFAQs about crossoversWhat Is A Crossover Vehicle?A crossover vehicle is a vehicle that shares characteristics with both passenger cars and SUVs. It is called a crossover because it is a combination, or crossover, of the two usually distinct kinds of vehicles. You might also hear crossovers referred to as “crossover SUVs” or as “CUVs.”Examples of Popular CUVsSome of the most popular crossover SUVs include the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5. Toyota RAV4, and various models of Subaru, like the Outback, Forester, and Crosstrek. Generally, people like these vehicles for their practicality, versatility, reliability, safety, and gas mileage.Lower Your Monthly Vehicle Payment with Auto ApproveAlready got a vehicle you love? If you want to lower your monthly auto loan payment, we can help. Refinancing is an easy way to pay less monthly, over the life of your loan, or both.Get a free quote to see how much you could save.What Makes A Crossover A Crossover?Here are some of the most common characteristics you see among crossover SUVs.SUV Styling & High Ground ClearanceCUVs are typically styled to look more like SUVs than standard compact cars. At first glance, they look just like SUVs, and are sometimes even classed as “small” or “compact” SUVs. They’ll typically have higher ground clearance than a car, but not quite as much as a real SUV would have. Higher ground clearance can mean a better vantage point to see other drivers and a more capability on uneven terrain.Car-Like Handling & Unibody ConstructionSUVs are big, heavy cars. They can be difficult to park and don’t handle like a car. They’re also typically built with what’s called body-on-frame construction. Body-on-frame construction means that the vehicle has a separate chassis or frame that the body is mounted on, while with unibody construction the frame and body are a single unit. The reason body-on-frame construction is used for SUVs is because it gives better towing or hauling capacity and handles uneven terrain and off-roading better. Body-on-frame vehicles also tend to be a bit more durable and can take more wear and tear from activities like off-roading and hauling. Crossovers use unibody construction. Unibody construction makes crossovers lighter, meaning they handle more like a car, and this build can be safer for passengers in an accident – though the vehicle itself may require more work to recover. The sacrifice in weight means that crossovers don’t have as much capacity for towing and hauling, and the frame build difference means that, while you could probably take a CUV on a dirt road in a pinch, taking it off-roading would be a bad choice. It looks like an SUV and has room like an SUV, but it’s not built for the same kind of work.Fuel EfficiencySince they’re lighter, crossover SUVs are also usually much more fuel efficient than standard SUVs. Of course, these days you can get hybrid and electric CUVs and SUVs – but even so, the heavier the vehicle, the more energy it’ll take to run smoothly.VersatilityUltimately, the thing that makes crossovers so appealing to so many people is their unique combination of traits. You get more cargo space or trunk room, like an SUV, but the handling and fuel efficiency of a car. You get the safety of a car, with higher clearance, and can opt for a CUV with four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive to better handle rougher road conditions.Overall, for many people, a crossover SUV offers the best of both worlds. But whether it makes sense for your needs? That’s up to you.Crossover FAQStill have some lingering questions? Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about crossover vehicles.What is the difference between a crossover and an SUV?Here’s the short answer. A crossover has some of the features of a car and some of the features of an SUV. Crossovers are sometimes considered a kind of SUV because they have some of the styling, room, and ground clearance found in SUVs, but their unibody construction and resulting lighter weight and easier handling make them unique.Should I get a crossover or an SUV?Deciding whether to get a CUV or an SUV is a personal choice! Those not intending to do a lot of off-roading or hauling tend to prefer crossovers for their balance of space, safety features, easy handling and fuel efficiency. However, if you live somewhere with challenging weather conditions, if you live in the country and regularly navigate rough terrain, or if you want to use the vehicle to carry or tow heavy loads, an SUV may be a better choice.Which is safest: a car, SUV, or crossover?Most popular compact cars, SUVs, and crossover SUVs are essentially safe. Crossovers have a lot to commend them when it comes to safety, because of their specific blend of features. However, the relative safety of different kinds of vehicles really depends on the conditions you’re most likely to face.In an accident, generally speaking, vehicles with unibody construction are considered statistically safer and less likely to roll than body-on-frame vehicles. However, in an accident between a car and a heavier vehicle, those in the lighter vehicle are in more danger.And, depending on where you live, vehicle collisions may be less of a risk than bad weather or terrain. Black ice, heavy storms and heat waves can all be dangerous, and different factors – like the kinds of tires on your vehicle, whether or not you have 4WD or AWD, your emergency preparedness, and the vehicle’s make and model – can all affect your relative safety.All this means that, ultimately, what’s safest will depend on your lifestyle and location. If you’re thinking about buying a new vehicle, the best things you can do are take time to understand the safety features available to you and research safety statistics on the specific make and model.Your Crossover Questions, AnsweredHopefully, this guide has answered all your questions about crossover vehicles and you’re now well-equipped to decide whether a crossover is right for your next vehicle purchase, lease, or road trip rental car.Save Money on Your Monthly Auto Loan Payment With Auto ApproveLooking to lower your monthly vehicle payments? Auto Approve can help you find the best deal available to you in just a few minutes. Refinance your vehicle through Auto Approve and you’ll get a great deal with no markups – and we’ll do the paperwork for you. Auto Approve even handles the DMV!Getting a quote is quick, free, and doesn’t require a commitment or hard credit check.Get your free quote now.

Do you need to rent a car on vacation?It’s a complicated question, and there’s no one size fits all answer. However, there are a few important details you can and should take into account if you’re on the fence about renting a car on your next holiday.In this short guide to car rentals for vacation, we’ll look at:Your destinationYour travel planYour travel companionsYour vacation habitsAnd your budgetWith these things considered, you should have a clearer picture of whether or not renting a car is right for your getaway. And hey, remember – this is a good problem to have, it means you’re going on vacation!5 Things That Determine Whether You Need A Car On VacationWhether or not you want to drive on holiday is a personal decision. Ultimately, this choice can affect the kind of trip you have, so choose based on the vacation you want. 1. Where You’re GoingYour destination is a huge factor in deciding whether or not you need a car at all. For example, consider the following:Is it somewhere you’ll need to drive to get around? Is it somewhere with robust public transpo and limited parking? Do they drive on the same side of the road? What are your plans for meals – will you need to buy groceries?If you’re going to an all-inclusive resort, or a major city where parking will be expensive and difficult and public transportation is the standard way of getting around, a car might only slow you down. If you’re renting a ranch in Montana or roadtripping through mountains, you’re almost certainly going to want not just a vehicle, but one that can handle inclement weather and rough terrain.And if you’re going somewhere like Ireland or England where they drive on the other side of the road (or if you’re coming to the U.S. or Canada from, for example, the U.K., India, or Japan), even if having your own transportation might be convenient, you might want to look at buses and trains to lower stress and keep you safe.2. How You’re Getting ThereThere are different considerations for taking a road trip vs. flying somewhere.If you’re taking a road trip, you might consider taking your own car rather than getting a rental. This is certainly cheaper, and if you’re driving somewhere close to home, taking your own car is a perfectly good option. The biggest reasons to rent a vehicle for a road trip are:If your car is old or has limitations that’ll make it uncomfortable or more likely to break downIf you know you’ll need to handle terrain or weather your vehicle isn’t well-suited forIf you’re going somewhere far enough from service stations that a breakdown could mean a major trip interruptionIf you’re driving from Boston to Southern Maine, renting a car feels a little silly – you’re close to home, you’re not changing terrain, and you’ll be surrounded by auto shops the whole time. But if you’re driving from Boston to the Grand Canyon, the idea of getting a broken down car back home becomes a much bigger deal. A rental might be more expensive, but if you’re renting with a national company, it may be easier to simply replace a vehicle in the case of an emergency than wait for one to be fixed when you’re several days’ drive from your home and your destination. Of course, that’ll depend on your breakdown coverage and your rental agreement, so read the fine print on everything carefully as you weigh your options.On the flip side, if you’re flying to your destinations – say you’re off to see the rainforests of Costa Rica – renting a car will likely be your only choice, if all the other factors align and you decide a car is, in fact, necessary.3. Who You’re Going WithBig family? Solo travel? Your adventuring party makes a big difference in your transportation needs. If you’re backpacking on a budget alone across Europe, you might be willing to put up with a lot of minor inconveniences to save money. A car might be more of a hindrance than a help – or at least eat up your cash.On the other hand, if you’re taking your parents and your young kids to a beach house, you’re definitely going to need a vehicle.And if you’re traveling with a group of several adults, you might be willing to go either way on a vehicle rental vs, taking transportation. In that case, the best thing to do is dive into the details – will several train tickets be as or more expensive than a vehicle rental? Does the train have a scenic view, or would a car be a better way to see and explore the area?Want a little money back in your pocket for your next getaway?Refinancing your vehicle loan is a great way to save. Most people are eligible for a better rate and to pay less monthly. When you refinance with Auto Approve, we’ll help you find the best deal available to you, then do the paperwork for you!Get a free quote to see how much you could save.4. What You Like To Do On VacationAnother thing to think about is the kind of vacationer you are. Some people like to stay close to home, or stick to eating at restaurants and strolling around urban sites. If that’s you, cabs and walking might be more than sufficient for your needs. But for the outdoorsy, those who love beach days, national parks, and driving into the woods, a car can be a must-have. When you picture yourself on vacation, what are you doing? If you prefer to split the difference, you can always rent a car just for a day or two rather than for the whole time, to save money.5. Your BudgetMaybe one of the most important factors in all of this is what works for your wallet. Compare costs for different options and decide what’s worth it to you. If money is tight, choosing what will cost the least is probably going to be the best plan of action – just make sure you don’t choose something that could have the unintended consequence of costing you more because your research failed you. If the bus is cheaper, but it only comes every other day and you’ll need to rent a hotel room for a night while you wait, is it still cheaper? How much does a cab actually cost? How much is parking and gas where you’re going? Be thorough, especially if cost is a concern.And on the other hand, if you have more wiggle room in your budget, the right transportation for the right destination can make a trip more pleasant and less stressful. So, Should You Rent A Car For Your Next Vacation?That’ll depend on all these factors. A car is not always the right choice for every person and destination. Hopefully, with all of the above in consideration, you’ll be able to figure out the right steps for you and your next trip!Another good next step to take?Finding out how much you could save by refinancing your vehicle with Auto Approve! Most people are paying more than they need to be on their monthly car payment, thanks to dealer markups. If you got your loan through dealership financing, if rates have gone down, or if your credit has gone up, refinancing may be able to save you money both monthly and in the long run with a lower interest rate.Getting a quote only takes a few minutes, no commitment and no hard credit check required.Get your free quote now.

Do you know how to drive safely in a heat wave?The dog days of summer are arriving across the United States, and as it gets hotter, our vehicles do too. Just like driving in wintry conditions, driving in extreme heat poses its own unique set of challenges. From dead batteries to tire blowouts to soft tarmac, there’s a lot to be on the lookout for when the thermometer hits a record high.That’s why now is a good time to refresh your knowledge of when you need to worry about car safety in high temperatures, what to look out for, and how to keep yourself safe.Let’s start with the basics.FAQs: Summer Car SafetyTo lay a little groundwork and make sure we're all on the same page, let’s take a look at these frequently asked questions about driving in inclement heat.Is it safe to drive in a heat wave?Yes, broadly it is safe to get on the road in a heat wave, as long as you are prepared and understand the risks. We’ll dive into the details in the next section, but you should: avoid long drivesplan to stop frequentlyhave an emergency kit in your car in case anything goes wrong, and keep a close eye on your engine temperatureHowever, if you follow all the tips in the guide, there is no reason you can’t drive in hot weather by exercising caution and good sense.What temperature is too hot to drive a car?There is no single temperature at which it becomes definitively unsafe to turn on a car, but avoiding driving in unusually high heat is generally good practice, if you have the option. The outside temperature is less important than your engine temperature and the temperature inside your car. If your engine reaches over 220° F, the various fluids that allow your car to run could start burning up – this is where things start to get dangerous. Similarly, the human body needs certain conditions to function properly. Depending on the humidity, temperatures can become dangerous between 95 and 130° F – but you don’t want to risk being at the top of what your body can handle for any length of time. That means, if your car doesn’t have good cooling or if it’s hot enough that you can’t use the AC because your engine is in trouble, you want to avoid being in the car for any length of time. Instead, try to drive early or late in the day when temperatures are lower and keep your car cool.How do you protect your car in 100 degree weather?The best things you can do are park in the shade (or out of the sun), use a sunshade to keep the sun from heating up your car’s interior (or consider getting a car cover if you live somewhere likely to get many days of extreme heat and don’t have a garage at home), and make sure you get your car fully checked over ahead of extreme heat weather to ensure you have enough coolant and fluids, your tire pressure isn’t too high or low, your air conditioner is running smoothly, and your battery’s in good shape. A fresh wax and an oil change can also help protect your vehicle from deteriorating due to extreme heat.Want a little extra wiggle room in your budget for heat-proofing your vehicle?Put more money back in your wallet by refinancing your vehicle. Most people are eligible for a lower rate than they’re paying. That means paying less monthly and over the life of your loan.With Auto Approve, you can get a quote in just a few minutes, no commitment required. And if you like what you see, we do the paperwork for you.Get a free quote to see how much you could save.Safety Tips For Driving in a Heat WaveLet’s get into the nitty-gritty of car safety in extreme heat. When driving in very hot temperatures, you should…1. Keep an Eye on Your Vehicle’s Fluids, Engine Heat & Tire PressureThe most dangerous thing that can happen when temperatures get too high is your vehicle overheating – your battery, tires, and engine are at highest risk of this, and anything with a fluid can have issues if your vehicle’s systems get too hot.In an emergency situation, especially if you see steam or smoke coming out of any part of the vehicle, pull over right away.If you’re concerned or if your vehicle’s engine heat warning light comes on, turn your heat on until you can find a place to pull over. It might feel counterintuitive, but will pull heat away from your engine.You can and should have your vehicle checked ahead of the hottest part of the summer to ensure all the systems and fluids are in top working order to avoid any issues.Avoiding long drives in the hottest part of the day can also help you keep any part of your car from reaching dangerous temperatures. Ideally, you don’t want to drive more than two hours at a time on days with extreme heat. Think of it like driving in a snowstorm – just because it’s not visibly coming down on you, it’s no less dangerous to be on the road in high heat.2. Carry Water & Emergency SuppliesAn emergency kit is a must for every car, and having one tailored to the heat for summer is essential in a heat wave. There are pre-made kits for heat exhaustion and high temperatures, or you can put together your own.Your kit should always, year-round, include car safety kit essentials like:Jumper cablesTire repair & replacement kitSpare tireFirst aid kitPaper mapLight, non-perishable snacks and drinksFlares or reflective triangles Spare phone chargerIn the summer, you want to think about the unique challenges of a hot sunny day and add items to help prepare for that, like:SunscreenHatBug sprayLightweight blankets or other materials to protect you from the sunReflective sunshade for your windshieldMisting fan, cooling towels, cold compress, or cooling patchesA thermometer in case of heat exhaustionAlways, always, pack lots of water and electrolyte fluids or powders to avoid dehydration.And remember – never leave a pet or child alone in a hot car.3. Park SmartA simple but effective way to keep yourself and your car at a reasonable temperature is to avoid parking in the sun. Take any chance you can to park in the shade, in a garage, or in a covered parking lot – when you start with a lower car temperature, it’s easier to maintain.We’ve mentioned a sunshade a couple times in this guide, but here’s one more plug to pick one up – they can be an effective way to keep the interior of your car cool, and there are relatively inexpensive universal and model-specific models that fold up neatly into the back of your car. Car covers can be more of a hassle to get on and off, but can be a big help if you don’t have a better parking option and will regularly need to park your vehicle in the sun during hot days.4. Avoid The Hottest Parts of the DayIf you must drive during a heat wave, driving in the morning or evening when the air is a few degrees cooler is a smart move. Try not to run errands at high noon if they’re something you could do at night instead. And, again, if you must be on the road in the heat, make the trips short and stop frequently. Plan smart. Summer’s not the best time to take a road trip through the Mojave desert (but a great time for a road trip up the Northeast coast!). 5. Keep An Eye on The RoadOne final danger to think about is the road during very high heat days. When temperatures rise, tarmac can soften, potholes can open up, and other drivers can be more prone to overheating and vehicular issues. Make sure that, even on familiar roads, you’re paying attention to the terrain and the cars around you to keep yourself safe.As the driver of your vehicle, you are an essential part of everything working correctly. Being too hot or dehydrated can lead to confusion, illness, and exhaustion, so make sure you take care of yourself as well as the car.Now You Know How To Take Care of Your Car In SummerExtreme heat has become a staple of summers in the US. Make sure you’re ready for anything the next time a heat wave hits.Remember these key points:Use every tool you can to keep your car cool when you’re not drivingAvoid the hottest part of the day and long driving stintsCarry emergency supplies, and especially waterGet your vehicle fully checked to avoid the worstPull over as soon as possible if you see steam, smoke, or an engine heat warning lightRemember that heat affects the road and other drivers as well as you and your vehicleTake care of yourself and avoid unnecessary risksFollow these tips to keep your vehicle in tip top shape on even the hottest days and you should be able to drive smart and safe all summer long.And one more tip? Refinance with Auto Approve and save on your monthly auto loan payment!Summer means high heat, but it also means vacation and fun in the sun. Refinance to put more of your money back in your wallet for the things that matter most to you.Thanks to dealership markups, most people are paying a higher rate than they need to be on their vehicle loan. Refinancing can help you secure the best rate you’re eligible for. When you get a free quote from Auto Approve, one of our representatives will work with you to find the deal that makes the most sense for you – then do the paperwork for you, making refinancing simple.Get your free quote now.

It can be hard to find movies that are both suitable for kids and fun for adults, especially in the younger years when kids are super into cars, trucks, and wheels of all kinds. This list contains some of the top-rated kid-friendly car movies, whether you’re setting them up for a watch from the road, preparing for a road trip, or just planning a fun family movie night.Here are some of the best kid-friendly movies featuring vehicles and characters with wheels.Kids Movies with Cars and WheelsWe’ve included information about content suitability here, but it’s ultimately up to you to know what’s right for your child and your household rules, of course!1. Cars SeriesCommon Sense Media Age Rating: 5+ (up to 8+ depending on the film)Starting this list off with a bang, Pixar’s Cars and all its various sequels and spin-offs are probably the number one choice for parents and car-obsessed kids. There’s tons of content in the series, and all of it has the Disney-Pixar stamp of approval, meaning you know you’re getting good family fun.The series includes Cars, Cars 2, Cars 3, several TV series and short films, and the spin-offs Planes and Planes: Fire & Rescue. Cars (the original) has the highest Rotten Tomatoes score and Planes has the lowest, so prepare yourself accordingly.2. Herbie MoviesCommon Sense Media Age Rating: 7+Another well-known car-centric family friendly series, The Love Bug, its Herbie sequels, and the 2005 remake Herbie: Fully Loaded are widely accepted as car-centric kid-friendly classics. While older movies can sometimes come with discussion points about content, The Love Bug remains good family fun with little that hasn’t aged well – and Herbie: Fully Loaded might be better than some remember (or at least will keep the kids entertained).3. TurboCommon Sense Media Age Rating: 6+This animated movie about a speed-loving snail played by Ryan Reynolds may have slipped past the radar for adults without kids in 2013, but it’s a delightful little racing movie about a snail with a dream. While there are technically no cars featured in this movie – the snails themselves are the racers – it’s still a solid pick for kids that love all things vehicles as the gastropods hit the pavement. And the star studded cast, which includes Samuel L. Jackson, Maya Rudolph, Paul Giamatti, and Bill Hader, makes it fun for grown-ups too!4. It’s A Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad WorldCommon Sense Media Age Rating: 8+This beloved 1960s road race classic is a barrel of laughs for kids of all ages – and happens to feature tons of different vehicles, car chase scenes, and slapstick antics on the road. This movie skews a little older – its run time is almost 3 hours and there’s a character who drinks profusely – but things are kept light and broad. With memorable performances from Spencer Tracy, Jimmy Durante, Ethel Merman, and Mickey Rooney, it’s an old-school movie but well worth a watch.5. Tom and Jerry: The Fast and the FurryCommon Sense Media Age Rating: 5+If you haven’t thought about Tom and Jerry since you were a kid yourself, you wouldn’t be alone, but the classic cartoon is still releasing new films at a steady pace. The Fast and the Furry, a 75-minute long movie from 2005, is considered among the best, and follows Tom and Jerry racing around the world in hopes of winning a new home after accidentally wrecking their old house. Tom and Jerry fans and skeptics alike are apt to enjoy this short, zany, G-rated race movie.Kids can be expensive!If you want more money in your pocket for the things that matter most, consider refinancing your vehicle with Auto Approve. If you got your financing from a dealer, you’re likely paying a higher rate than you need to be. Auto Approve can help lower your monthly payment in just a few minutes.Get a free quote to see how much you could save.6. Rally Road RacersCommon Sense Media Age Rating: 6+A rookie race car driver, a slow loris named Zhi played by Jimmy O. Yang, tries to save his family’s home by betting he can beat a rally racing champion in this fast-paced animated movie. He trains with friends and gets help from a veteran racer (played by J. K. Simmons), and in the process sees more of the world. While Rally Road Racers will likely appeal more to kids than adults, with John Cleese as Zhi’s nemesis, there’s enough to keep parents entertained.7. The Great RaceCommon Sense Media Age Rating: 6+Like It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World, The Great Race is a slapstick comedy from the 1960s, this one featuring a suave hero – helped along by Natalie Wood, playing a suffragette in a top-notch performance – racing a dastardly professor (Jack Lemmon, with Peter Falk as his bumbling assistant) from New York to Paris. Is it a little dated? Sure. But it’s still a family fun film built around a car chase, and a nice break from all animation all the time!Special MentionsWhile those are the top movies for car kids, there are a few more movies with prominent vehicles worth checking out!My Neighbor Totoro: For small kids who love buses, the cat bus in My Neighbor Totoro is a classicBob the Builder (series and movies): For small kids (3+) who love construction vehiclesThe Lego Movie: For slightly older kids (6+) who love construction vehiclesLooking for ideas for older kids? These movies all feature cars, trucks, driving, road trips, or car chases – and content that may be a bit more mature than some of the other options on this list. Speed Racer (8+)Back to the Future (10+)Transformers (11+)Smokey and the Bandit (13+)Talladega Nights (14+)Blues Brothers (16+)Those Are The Best Car Movies for KidsReady to drive off into the sunset with one of these picks? Whether the cars are racing, chasing, or falling in love (hello, Herbie Goes to Monte Carlo), there should be an idea here that’ll fit any wheel fanatic kid.And if not and the kids are old enough that you’re looking for something you’ll love, why not check out this list of the best road trip movies?Refinancing means more money for entertainmentThere are plenty of good reasons to want more money in your pocket, whether that’s more discretionary income for fun stuff or a little wiggle room in a tight budget. The good news is, the odds are good that Auto Approve can help you lower your monthly auto loan payment, your rate, or both!Simply tell us a little bit about your vehicle and current loan – no commitment or credit check required to get started – and you’ll be matched with an Auto Approve representative who can help you find the best deal for you, then do the paperwork for you.Get your free quote now.

Thinking about a road trip this year, but not sure which of the many amazing classic American road trips to take? You’re in the right place.While it’s hard to say that any one singular road trip is the best most beautiful roast trip to take – the United States has tons of interesting terrain, stunning vistas, and cultural landmarks from sea to shining sea – we’ve compiled three favorites that you can start planning right now.There are many more great options. Traveling Route 66 or visiting the Grand Canyon are evergreen classics. But these uniquely excellent drives were selected for weather, accessibility, and combination of natural wonders and modern conveniences. American Road Trips to Take In 2025What’s the best road trip to take for you? Only you can decide that, but it’ll depend on who you’re driving with (or if you’re flying solo!), where you’re starting your journey, and how long you want to spend in the day, per car and overall. Each of these road trips can be shortened or lengthened with fewer or more stops, and each has their pros and cons. And once you’ve picked one, check out our road trip planner.1. New England: Jamestown to Acadia National ParkIf you’re craving a seaside getaway, it doesn’t get much more iconic than a drive up the New England coastline. This is a great option for summer and fall road trips. During the summer, you get cooler temperatures than much of the US, sea breezes, lobster rolls, and beach days. During the fall, you get stunning fall colors, script temperatures, bonfires, and apple pie.This is a particularly great road trip for families and those not inclined to spend endless hours in the car, since the total driving time is fairly short and the stop options are plentiful, from bustling city life in Boston to the amazing restaurants of Portsmouth, NH, and Portland, ME, to the lighthouses, ocean views, and sprawling forests of coastal Maine and Acadia National Park. Driving time (one way without stops, approx.): 6 hoursStop ideas: RI: Jamestown, Providence; MA: Cape Cod, Boston, Salem; NH: Portsmouth; ME: Ogunquit, Portland, Freeport, Augusta, Bar Harbor, Acadia National Park You won’t want to make all these stops in a row, but if you’re driving round trip, you can always see the LL Bean boot in Freeport one way and make time for Salem’s witches (or lack thereof) on the way back.One word to the wise: This road trip won’t work in the winter due to the weather in the Northeast. Driving in winter conditions doesn’t make for a relaxing vacation!2. Smoky Mountains: Asheville to MemphisIf you’re interested in a road trip through classic Americana, a trip from North Carolina to Tennessee might be just the ticket. By stopping in Nashville and Memphis, you can see much of the heart of American music history, and the barbecue across the region is iconic. And the culture isn’t half of it – this drive takes you through the stunning Smoky Mountains and is widely considered one of the most beautiful road trips you can take.Driving time (one way without stops, approx.): 8 hoursStop ideas: NC: Charlotte, Asheville, Great Smoky Mountains National Park (crosses multiple states); TN: Johnson City, Pigeon Forge, Knoxville, Chattanooga, NashvilleA few of these are out the way from the others – stopping Charlotte would really mean starting or ending in Charlotte, and Johnson City’s out of the way, but a fine place to stop if you choose to focus on exploring the Smoky Mountains.This trip is going to have the hottest weather of the options on this list in the summer, but nothing compared to what you might experience in Zion or Big Bend. The Smoky Mountains and Asheville stay pretty cool, but by the time you get to Memphis, depending on the time of year, it can get into the 90s Fahrenheit. The good news is, all these places stay relatively temperate through the winter, so there’s no bad time of year to visit.Be prepared: Cell service is weak or non-existent in some parts of the Smoky Mountains, so you’ll want to make sure you have a paper map and a well-stocked car emergency kit, just in case.3. Pacific Northwest Meets Big Sky Country: Seattle to YellowstoneWhen it comes to iconic American experiences, Yellowstone National Park is high on the list. But to get the full flavor of the Pacific Northwest and Big Sky Country, start or end the drive in Seattle. Taking time to stop in Washington’s wine country and see Puget Sound adds another incredible set of sights and experiences, and Seattle makes a great jumping off point to visit any one of Olympic, Mount Rainier, or North Cascades National Park. From there, you’re diving into the heartland, whether you want to head up to Glacier National Park, down to Grand Teton, or straight to Yellowstone.Driving time (one way without stops, approx.): 11.5 hoursStop ideas: WA: Seattle, Puget Sound, Washington Wineries, Spokane; MT: Glacier National Park, Butte Historic District, Bozeman, Big Sky; ID: Boise; WY: Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park:This is clearly the most time-consuming, robust road trip of the three. If you’re looking for a big trip, this is the one. Yes, it’s a commitment, but worth it for the stunning views and once in a lifetime experiences. Just remember, when you’re spending a lot of time in National Parks, you want to make sure you plan your road trip meticulously. Gas stations and places to stay the night can be few and far between, and some things may book up months in advance.Don’t have a ton of time but want to see Big Sky Country? You can also fly into Yellowstone Airport (WYS) and land just two miles from Yellowstone National Park.Which of These 3 Beautiful Road Trips In The United States Sings to You?There’s no wrong choice – you want to choose something that fits the amount of time you have, your budget, and your interests.Want to spend more on your dream road trip and less on your monthly car payment?Most people are paying more than they need to on their auto loan, thanks to dealership rate markups! AutoApprove can help you find a better rate in just a few clicks. Tell us a bit about your vehicle – no commitment required – to find out how much you could potentially save through refinancing. An AutoApprove representative will help you find the deal that’s right for you, and once you’ve selected your refinance, we do the paperwork for you, easy as that!That means more money in your pocket for the things that matter most – whether that’s a soul-searching solo trip or an unforgettable family vacation.Get your free quote now.

Have you ever considered learning while you drive? Whether you want to make better use of a daily commute or are heading out on a long solo drive, if you want to learn a skill from behind the wheel, we have some ideas for you!The key to learning on the road is to choose something you can do with just audio media – and to make sure nothing you do is so engrossing that you lose focus. It’s important that you still drive safely, no matter what. Essentially, we recommend skills you can learn from an audiobook or podcast and repetitive activities that allow you to build up your knowledge or talents over time.Let’s take a look.Things You Can Learn While DrivingThe average American driver spends, according to a AAA survey, just over an hour in their car every single day. Why not find ways to be productive with all that time? Here are some things you can pick up while you drive.1. Learn a LanguageThis is probably the most popular skill to tackle in the car. Whether you’re brushing up on a language you learned in high school, preparing for a trip, trying to improve your chances at a new job, or learning just to stay sharp, there are tons of good reasons to learn a language while you drive. And, yes, while you’ll also need to supplement with written lessons, you can work on your listening and speaking skills in the car.Depending on which language you want to learn and your level, you’ll need different resources, but here are a few ideas for ways to get started:Starting from 0: Listen to podcasts that teach you the basics (for example, Pimsleur and LanguagePod101 both have podcast-based language lessons)For skill building: Listen to programs designed for language learners (for example, News in Slow is designed for people currently learning at a beginner to intermediate level to practice listening comprehension) For advanced learners: Grow your vocabulary and get closer to fluency by listening to music or news in your target language and trying to capture any unfamiliar words, phrases, or ideas2. Listen to the Sounds of NatureIf you’re interested in the natural world, you could use the time to learn things like the calls of birds local to your area. Avid birders in particular might find this interesting – and there are many resources for birders, since it’s such a popular hobby (BirdNote Daily is a good option) – but resources exist for frog fans and other animal lovers as well, dependent on your region. And there’s no reason you need to stick to your own backyard! Noisy by Nature is a kid-focused podcast that introduces the sounds of Australian wildlife (and is, frankly, fascinating for all ages).As an added bonus, nature sounds can also be relaxing, which is helpful when you’re stuck in traffic in a 20 minute slowdown.3. Write Better EmailsWhether you’re an English learner, a complete word nerd, or someone who struggled with writing in school and wants to up their email game, there are tons of great podcasts about English grammar, word usage, and how people speak. A few top recommendations include: Grammar GirlThe AllusionistVocal FriesYou’re Saying It WrongWebster's Word of the DayExpanding your vocabulary, mastering complex grammar rules, getting into the nitty-gritty of style, and discovering common malapropisms and mistakes can make you a better writer, reader, and conversationalist.4. Level Up Your Financial LiteracyThere are tons of great personal finance podcasts being made right now. If you’ve never spent much time thinking about budgeting, saving, or your own attitudes toward money, learning about the basics of finance while you drive could be a huge help!Planet Money, which covers current events in the world of money and investment, is a fascinating and informative podcast, while So Money, Money For the Rest of Us, and Afford Anything are a few of the many long-running hits in the finance space. Read reviews and find a podcast that fits your taste – and just remember, no podcast gives specific advice, so ask a professional before making big money moves!Trying to be smarter with money?You don’t need to learn any new skills to refinance your vehicle and start saving money. Most people are paying more than they need to be on their auto loan. A refinance can help you secure a lower rate and pay less. Plus, it’s easy! AutoApprove can help you find the right deal for your unique situation – and do the paperwork for you.Get a free, no-commitment quote to see how much you could save.5. Practice Using Your VoiceWhether you’re a nervous public speaker or thinking about getting into amateur opera, the car is the perfect place to get vocal reps in. There are tons of voice teachers making content online – you could find a vocal warm-up to try while you drive, or look up exercises in advance and put them into practice when the car door is closed.Whether you rehearse a presentation or sales pitch, practice improvising speeches, or sing do-re-mi, the car is a rare place where you can let yourself be as noisy as you want, take advantage of it!6. Build Your Understanding of MathRegardless of your current level of math expertise, you can skill build while in the car. Some people work on basic skills like solving simple number problems, memorizing multiplication tables, or learning more of the digits of pi. Or, if you prefer to simply listen, there are many engaging math listens that can make you fall in love with math. A few top podcast options include: The Joy of XBreaking MathMy Favorite TheoremOpinionated History of MathematicsLeveling up your understanding of math can help you see the world in a new light! And hey, maybe you can impress your friends with your new intel.7. Learn About the WorldLast but certainly not least, there are so many great educational podcasts about all manner of things, from history to economics to niche scientific fields. Taking the time to simply learn broadly about different topics that interest you wherever you can is a very productive way to spend your time in the car. Some of the best options happen to overlap with our recommended podcasts for long drives, like Ologies, 99% Invisible, The Happiness Lab, and Revolutions. But the thing that interests you most when you set out on the road is always the best option, whatever that may be – even if it’s something silly like the workings of ‘90s cars or learning to understand Morse code. Whatever you choose, expanding your worldview and learning something new is always a good choice!And Those Are Seven Useful Ways To Spend Your Driving TimeMost of us spend quite a bit of time behind the wheel, trying to make something of that time is an admirable pursuit! From language learning to amateur opera performance, there’s always something interesting to do to pass the time and challenge your mind.But refinancing your vehicle doesn’t take any time at all.You could be paying less monthly on your auto loan, putting more cash back in your pocket for the things that matter most. Find out how much you could save with just a few clicks and no commitment. Get your free quote now.

Let’s talk about five of the essential things every car owner should know.There are tons of skills you come by naturally as you start driving. Some things you learn for your drivers license exam, some skills you pick up as you start driving. But there are a few things not everyone knows how to do that can make you a better car owner and help you feel more confident on the road.These are some of the top skills you need to take time to learn once you own a car. Let’s take a closer look.Essential Skills for Drivers and Car OwnersTake a peek at the list. Do you know how to do all of these things? Most people will have learned at least some of these skills naturally, but taking time to really master them can help you drive safer and keep your car in great condition longer.1. How to Check and Change a TireIt’s important to get to know your tires, and recognize the right tire for your vehicle. But buying the right tires is only the beginning – tire maintenance and tire changing are super handy skills for every driver. The same is true for recognizing, checking, and changing or replacing fluids like engine coolant, brake fluid, windshield washing fluid, transmission fluid, and engine oil. If you see a liquid coming out of your vehicle, being able to recognize what fluid it most likely is and whether or not it constitutes a safety hazard is key.To get you started here are the essentials of changing a tire:Find somewhere safe to park on a level, firm surface.Turn on your hazard lights.Gather your tools: spare tire, car jack, lug wrench, and your owner’s manualReview any important information in the manual about tire changes for your specific vehicle Loosen but do not remove the lug nuts (which may be under the hub cap)Position the car jack at your vehicle’s jack points based on the instruction in the car owner’s manual (sometimes marked with a notch on the chassis)Slowly raise the car with the jackFinish loosening and remove the lug nuts, keeping them somewhere you can easily find them again where they can’t roll awayRemove the flat tire and replace it with the spare, lining the spare up with the wheel studsReplace the lug nuts and gently start screwing them in by handLower the car Use your lug wrench to tighten the lug nutsPut all your equipment back where you usually keep itCheck tire pressure for all tires (you may want to go to a garage to make sure everything’s good to go and your tire pressure is even)Return to the road, driving slowly and carefully if you’re driving on a donutPracticing changing your tire a few times at home can make it much less stressful if and when you need to change one on the road.2. How to Deep Clean Your Car YourselfWhile automatic car washes are handy and typically fairly affordable, deep cleaning and detailing your car can get expensive and time consuming. Knowing how to keep your car clean and how to handle stains and wear and tear on the inside and outside can improve your driving experience. After all, according to AAA, American drivers spent an average of 60.2 minutes behind the wheel every day as of 2022. Making that space clean and comfortable can help that hour of driving feel less stressful.Plus, deep cleaning your car yourself can save you money, and some people find it meditative!Speaking of saving money…Here’s one more thing every car owner should know how to do: lower their car payment quickly and hassle-free with Auto Approve!Get a free quote to see how much you could save.3. How to Read A Paper MapOnce a ubiquitous skill, knowing how to read a paper map is less and less common with the rise of GPS and digital map apps for the phone and in-car systems. However, it’s important that drivers of all ages master this skill and keep it sharp to be safe. You never know when you could lose service or battery power. Having a map in your glovebox and knowing how to read can help save headaches should you land in a tough spot. The last thing you want in the case of a breakdown is to add not knowing where you are to an already stressful situation.And reading a map isn’t all – all drivers should have on hand and know how to read their vehicle’s manual. You never want to be stranded somewhere trying to guess the meaning of an alert you’ve never seen before!While reading a map might not be absolutely essential when you’re staying close to home, it can come in handy if you want to plan a road trip – and even more so when you hit the road and venture into new areas further from home (and, depending on where you’re heading, further from robust network coverage!).4. How to Drive in Bad WeatherGiven shifting norms for how often we see major storms – and new types of storms hitting areas that once rarely saw, for example, snow storms or hurricanes – knowing how to drive, and when not to drive, in all kinds of weather is an absolute must.Driving in winter storms or heavy rain can mean different risks and challenges than, say, very strong winds or a heatwave. Prepare for all possibilities by brushing up on your driving skills and keeping an emergency kit in your truck.In general, when the weather is crazy and you’re on the road, slow down, leave extra space between you and the car in front of you, and remember that if you start to slide, the best thing to do is take your foot off the gas and gently steer the front of your car toward the direction you want it to go.5. How To Recognize Warning Signs from An Old CarLast but certainly not least, assuming you do everything right and your vehicle serves you well for over a decade, you’ll want to start keeping an eye out for signs of wear and tear that might mean a car is on its last legs. There’s a rule of thumb called the 30/60/90 rule in auto maintenance that suggests you should take your car in for servicing and preventative maintenance every 30,000 miles. This is true regardless of how long the vehicle’s been on the road and whether or not it’s showing any of the major old car warning signs. Preventative maintenance can help catch problems early and let you drive with confidence even after years with your vehicle. If everything’s looking good, you just need to keep an eye out for rusting, brake issues, bumping or bouncing, or a persistent check engine light. And One More Thing Every Car Owner Needs to Know…How to lower their car payment! Auto Approve can help you lower your vehicle payment in minutes.Most people are overpaying on their auto loanIf you got your vehicle from a dealership, there’s a good chance you’re overpaying on your auto loan, thanks to dealer markups on rates. Auto Approve can help you find out whether you’re eligible for a better rate and start paying less through refinancing. To get started, all you have to do is answer a few questions, no commitment required. Then, an Auto Approve associate can help you find the best deal for you. Once you choose your refinance, Auto Approve does the paperwork, making the process quick and easy!Get your free quote to see how much you could save today.

Planning a road trip? This step-by-step road trip planner is here to help as you get ready to embark.Whether you’re hitting the road with your family or going for a solo adventure, road trips are an iconic summer experience. Planning a road trip, however, can be a bit daunting, and many people have trouble figuring out all of the details that will guarantee a successful vacation. That’s why we’ve created the ultimate guide to planning a road trip. From picking the best destination to budgeting accordingly, here’s everything you need to know to hit the road.Here’s your ultimate guide to planning the perfect road trip.Step One: Outline your trip.This might be the easiest – or hardest – decision to make. While you should have a destination in mind, it’s important to remember that the road trip is not about the destination. A road trip is about the experience of travelling, the joy of the open road, and the stops you make along the way. It can be helpful to pick a theme for your road trip. You may want to hit a bunch of national parks to see the views and enjoy the hikes, or go on a food tour of a certain area. Once you figure out what you want your road trip to entail, you will be able to focus more on the actual route and map.Ask yourself the following questions to define your trip:How long do you have?Are you planning on a three day road trip or a month long road trip? This will greatly affect what options are available to you.Is your car in good shape?Another important consideration is the car you plan on using. Is your car able to handle a road trip that is a significant distance, or should you keep your trip a bit closer to home?How long can you drive in one stretch?If you are driving alone, it’s important to remember that you cannot drive 24 hours a day. Consider how much time you truly feel comfortable driving before taking a break. Can you go three hours? Five hours? Eight hours? If you have another driver in the car you can trade off driving, but make sure you have a clear understanding of what each other’s limits are when it comes to sitting behind the wheel. And remember–road trips are about enjoying the whole trip, not just getting from point A to point B as fast as possible.Where’s your final destination?Once you know your road trip theme and the amount of time you have you will be able to determine your final destination. From there, you can map out an alternate route home so that you can hit different stops on your way home. Step Two: Determine your budget.Like everything in life, your road trip plan will depend heavily on your budget. Are you trying to do this for as little money as possible, or are you willing to spend some cash to enjoy all the trip has to offer? While driving is usually cheaper than flying (especially when there are multiple people involved) there are still several expenses to consider. Gas, accommodations, food, attractions – everything comes with a price tag that needs to be considered.Gas: Look at the average gas prices along the way to get a rough idea of how much money you will spend on gas.Accommodations: Think about where you want to sleep for the duration of your road trip. Are you sleeping in your RV or resting at a campground overnight? Would you prefer to stay at a motel or hotel instead? Factor in the cost per night that you will need to budget.Food: Eating out at restaurants adds up very quickly, especially if you are doing it three times per day. Consider how often you’d like to eat out and what other options you may have along the way. Are you able to cook at any of your accommodations? What snacks and quick meals can you bring along with you? Look at each day of your trip and determine how much you will spend per day on food.Attractions: There are bound to be attractions along the way that will have entrance fees and other miscellaneous costs. Consider this as you map out your route, knowing that all of the attractions may not fit into your budget.Step Three: Map it all out.Once you have the bones of your trip figured out (the timeline, the final destination, the theme, and the budget) you can get down to the real heart of the road trip – the map.There are several ways to create the perfect road trip map for yourself. Of course, you can go old school and plan your map with a paper and pen, looking at a map and figuring out what towns and sights you’d like to see. But if you want to make your life a little easier, there are several apps such as Roadtrippers and Wanderlog that can help you create the perfect road trip. You can even create a road trip map on Google Maps, which may be more intuitive for some travelers. All of these apps can help you plan what attractions, accommodations, and routes you should use. And when you use them during your trip, they can provide live traffic updates and help keep your trip on schedule. Want to know the easiest way to save money for your road trip? Refinance your loan with Auto Approve!Refinancing your loan with Auto Approve can save you hundreds (if not thousands) – it might even fund your summer road trip!Get a free quote to see how much you could save.Step Four: Get organized and make your reservations.While road trips can provide some much-needed spontaneity, it is important to have your ducks in a row as much as possible. Imagine planning a route out only to find that the hotel you were planning on using is sold out for the night. Making a timeline for each day and booking your reservations ahead of time will help ensure your road trip stays on track for your timeline and your budget.Step Five: Prepare your car.It’s not every day that we ask our car to endure such a trip, so it’s important to make sure your car is up to the task. Be sure to check the following before heading out (or take your car to be inspected by a professional):Check that all fluids are topped off. This includes transmission fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, and wiper fluid. Change your oil and oil filter.Inspect your tires. Do they maintain proper pressure and have good tread? Check that the brakes are working well. Inspect the brake pads and rotators and replace as needed.Inspect the lights and ensure that they are all working properly.Change the wiper blades if they are not working perfectly.It’s also a good idea to start with a car that is clean inside and out. It will help keep you organized during the long drive and create a more peaceful environment. Give your car a good wash and vacuum and have a plan for collecting garbage while on the road. Our recommendation? Keeping a small garbage bag in the car is always a good idea!Step Six: Pack everything up.One of the many advantages of road tripping is that you can take anything and everything you might need – as long as it fits in your car. Since you’ll be on the road for so long, there are some unique things that you should consider bringing along, especially if you’re traveling with kids. In addition to the regular packing you’d do for a trip (clothes, toiletries, etc), consider packing up the following:Road trip essentials for youDriver’s license, insurance, and registrationExtra key for the carCar manualEmergency cashFirst aid kitAntibacterial wipesRoad map (in case you are unable to use your phone for some reason)Snacks – loads and loads of snacks!Reusable water bottleCell phone mountCell phone chargerHand sanitizerGallon of water, soap, and paper towels (for when you really need to wash your hands)SunglassesUmbrellaExtra blanketsCoolerFolding camp chairsSunscreenBug sprayPen, pencil, and a notebookTrash bags for the carRoad trip essentials for kidsSnacks (yes, even more snacks)Travel gamesHeadphones TabletColoring booksBooksToys, such as sticker books, Water Wow Books, travel play mats, and fidget toys (note: avoid packing a ton of toys – instead, try to select two or three to rotate through)Road trip essentials for the carSpare tireCar jackJumper cablesTire pressure gaugeFlaresTool kitWiper fluidGlovesFlashlightTire patch kitIf in doubt, check out our guide to putting together an emergency kit for your car.Step Seven: Enjoy the ride!When your car is packed and your map is loaded up and ready to go, you can finally enjoy your trip. Drive safely and be sure to take breaks when you feel tired or distracted. Engage in conversation or games if you have passengers, or crank up the music if you are driving solo. Whatever you do, enjoy the drive as well as the destination.That’s everything you need to know to plan a road trip.A successful road trip needs a good route, a thoughtful packing list, and a budget that can make your dream trip a reality.And if your budget has you feeling stuck at home, Auto Approve may be able to help. Discover how much you can save by refinancing your car loan with Auto Approve today!Get your free quote now.