Offers financing pathways for diverse U.S. credit histories.
The RoadLoans platform provides consumers with upfront financing offers.
The dealership network offers integrated financing at the time of purchase.
Chrysler Capital provides tailored offers for new and used Stellantis brands.
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For the Consumer Seeking In-Person Convenience+
For the U.S. car buyer who prefers a traditional, one-stop shopping experience, Santander Consumer USA’s indirect lending network provides a solution. By applying for a loan at a participating auto dealership, the consumer can have the dealer’s finance office manage the process of finding a competitive loan offer from various lenders, including SCUSA. This approach integrates the vehicle purchase and the financing into a single, convenient transaction.
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For the Consumer Who Wants to Plan Ahead Online+
To address the need for upfront financial information, SCUSA operates the direct-to-consumer platform, RoadLoans. This is the solution for U.S. buyers who want to get pre-approved for a loan before they begin shopping at a dealership. An approved applicant receives a loan offer, which empowers them with a clear budget and provides significant negotiating power when discussing the vehicle price.
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For the Buyer of a Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, or Ram Vehicle+
A specialized solution exists for U.S. purchasers of Stellantis brand vehicles. The Chrysler Capital program, which is administered by Santander Consumer USA, offers official, manufacturer-backed financing and lease deals. This channel provides these specific customers with access to brand-exclusive incentives and rates that may not be available through other, non-affiliated lenders.
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For the Car Owner Looking to Refinance+
The RoadLoans platform also provides a direct solution for U.S. vehicle owners who are seeking to refinance an existing auto loan from another institution. The secure online application allows them to see if they can qualify for a new loan with a lower interest rate or a more affordable monthly payment. This service addresses the common consumer need for better loan terms.
Top Auto Loan Options in the U.S.
- Santander Consumer USA – Available through over 15,000 dealerships, offering flexible loan terms for buyers at all credit levels. Features include online prequalification via Drive®, robust finance calculators, and easy-to-use payment tools like Auto Pay.
- Capital One Auto Navigator – Allows soft-pull prequalification and upfront access to dealer-specific offers, empowering buyers before they step into a showroom.
- PenFed Credit Union Auto Loans – Known for low APRs, generous loan-to-value limits, and flexible terms—especially beneficial for credit union members.
- LightStream (Truist Bank) – Offers unsecured auto loans with no restrictions on vehicle age or type and fast same-day funding, ideal for private transactions.
- Carvana Financing – Combines vehicle shopping, loan approval, and home delivery in a fully online experience—no dealership required.
Traditional Bank Financing vs. Santander Consumer USA
While banks like Bank of America or U.S. Bank offer straightforward auto loans, Santander focuses on streamlined dealer-based financing with specialized tools. Their Drive® prequalification program provides a soft-pull estimate, enhancing borrower confidence before visiting a dealership. Coupled with comprehensive auto loan content, resale calculators, and budgeting tools, Santander offers a full spectrum of lending support.
Santander Consumer USA Auto Financing
Santander helps buyers through all stages of vehicle financing:
- Access to dealers across the U.S.—over 15,000 partners offering new and used vehicle financing.
- Drive prequalification allows soft credit checks for real loan insights in minutes.
- Digital tools include finance calculators (e.g., for affordability, payoff), live budgeting help, and auto-pay options for smooth repayment.
- Wide credit spectrum support, from prime to subprime borrowers—with median terms around 72 months and median rates near 18–19% for subprime.
Online Lending Platforms
Platforms such as Capital One Auto Navigator, LightStream, and Carvana let buyers compare loan offers through soft pulls. Santander enhances this landscape with its Drive® marketplace, dealer financing, and digital servicing—giving a seamless blend of online research and dealership execution.
Unsecured Personal Loans vs. Santander Auto Loans
Unsecured personal loans can support private-party car purchases but often carry higher APRs and shorter repayment periods. Santander’s auto loans are secured by the vehicle and offer longer terms with structured support, keeping them more affordable and tailored for vehicle financing.
Buy Here, Pay Here Dealerships vs. Santander Auto Financing
Buy Here, Pay Here dealers serve borrowers with poor credit in exchange for higher rates, frequent payments, and limited consumer protections. In contrast, Santander provides transparent monthly billing, widespread dealer access, loan calculators, and full credit reporting—reducing risk and improving customer experience.
How Auto Loans Impact Your Finances and Credit Score in the U.S.
- Prequalification tools like Drive use soft credit pulls—protecting your FICO score while you shop. Final loan offers trigger a hard inquiry, but FICO typically treats all auto loan inquiries within 30–45 days as one, minimizing score impact.
- On-time payments are the most influential factor in your credit score and help maintain a healthy debt-to-income ratio—critical for future financing like mortgages.
- Late or missed payments can hurt credit and incur fees, but Santander’s Auto Pay and payment calculator tools help you stay ahead.
