Uncovering the impact of credit scores on car loans in the Philippines

It's no secret that financing has helped bridge the gap between desire and affordability. So, if you have decided to explore the beauty of the Philippines behind the wheel of your new car, a vehicle loan can help you get your own four wheels. Car loans have become a popular choice for Filipinos who want to fulfill their dreams of owning a personal car. By arranging a mere percentage of the car cost as down payment and signing to pay the rest of the amount in equated monthly installments (EMIs), you are all set to Zoom!

But hang on. It's not just about the down payment and monthly installments. Your credit score is a crucial factor in securing a favorable car loan in the Philippines, and knowing the importance of your credit score is key to navigating the world of car financing.

In this article, we will discuss all the information you must possess about credit scores and how it can impact your car loan journey. So let’s get started.

What is a credit score?

Your credit score is like your financial report card. It tells lenders how likely you are to repay your debts based on your financial habits and credit history. It's a rating system that helps financial institutions assess the risk of lending to you as a credit applicant.

In the Philippines, credit scores range from 300 to 850, with 850 being the highest possible score. The higher your score, the better your chances of getting credit approval. These factors impact your score the most:

Also Read: Don't Get Caught Off Guard: A Complete Guide to Car Registration Renewal in the Philippines

How to check credit score?

To check your credit score in the Philippines, you need to request your credit report from the Credit Information Corporation (CIC), the nation's primary local credit bureau. You can visit their website and follow these steps:

• Access the official CIBI website (You can also download the CIBIApp from Google Play Store or App Store)
• Create an account with a unique username and password if you’re a first time user or else log in using your existing credentials
• Provide contact and personal details, including name, address, etc.
• Upload clear copies of primary IDs (SSS, GSIS, etc.) and secondary IDs (PRC IC, Passport, etc.), along with your digital signature.
• Schedule a video call appointment for character verification on weekdays between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Await confirmation via email.
• Prepare the same identification documents for the video call appointment.
• Initiate the video call through the MeetMe feature on the app or website at the scheduled time.
• After successful verification, proceed to pay the ₱235 fee, inclusive of VAT.
• Upon completion of verification and payment, receive your comprehensive CIC credit report via email.

Importance of credit scores in car loans

When it comes to car loans in the Philippines, the pivotal factor in securing approval is your credit score. Lenders use the magical number to finalize whether you’ll get a loan or not. The higher your credit score, the better your chances of a loan approval, and you’re likely to get the loan on more favourable terms. On the other hand, if you have a low credit score, you may face rejection or less attractive loan conditions.

But that's not all. Your credit score also directly affects the interest rates offered on your car loan. If you have an excellent credit score, you'll be eligible for lower interest rates, which means more affordable loan repayments. Conversely, if your score is lower, you may end up with higher interest rates and, consequently, more expensive overall costs throughout the loan's term.

Finally, your credit score impacts the terms and conditions of your loan, including the down payment amount, loan tenure, and maximum loan amount. You'll likely be offered more flexible terms and better borrowing options if you have an excellent credit score. In short, your credit score matters a lot regarding car loans in the Philippines, so keeping it in good shape is essential.

Typical credit score ranges and their implications

Different credit score ranges in the Philippines have different implications for loan eligibility and terms:

Improving your credit score for better car loan terms

Here are some tips to build and maintain a credit score that will get you the best car loan deal:

• Pay your bills on time, every time: This is the golden rule! Consistent on-time payments significantly improve your score.
• Manage your credit card balances wisely: Pay your balances in full whenever possible to keep your credit utilization ratio low.
• Don't max out your credit limits: Even if you have a high credit limit, avoid using all of it. Aim to keep your credit card balances below 30% of the limit.
• Maintain a healthy credit mix: Having a mix of credit cards and installment loans demonstrates responsible credit management.
• Avoid applying for too much credit at once: Multiple loan inquiries within a short period can negatively impact your score. Space them out whenever possible.
• Monitor your credit report regularly: The Credit Information Corporation (CIC) allows you to access your credit report for free twice a year. Review it for accuracy and dispute any errors that might be dragging down your score. You can request a free credit report through the CIC website or by visiting their accredited outlets.

Wrap up

While applying for a car loan in the Philippines, your credit score plays a vital role in determining how much you can borrow and the affordability of your car purchase. Recognizing the importance of your credit score and taking proactive measures to keep it in good shape can significantly affect your chances of getting favorable loan terms and driving off with the car you've always wanted. By staying knowledgeable, practicing responsible financial behavior, and regularly checking your credit report, you can navigate the complexities of car financing with ease and assurance.

Also Read: How to budget for your car loan repayment effectively