2025 Navy Federal Credit Union Auto Loan Review
Navy Federal auto loans at a glance
 | New auto loans | Used auto loans | Refinance auto loans |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting annual percentage rate (APR) | 4.09% | 4.99% | 4.09% |
| Loan terms | 12 to 96 months | 12 to 72 months | Up to 96 months |
| Loan amounts | Starting at $250 | Starting at $250 | Starting at $250 |
| See Auto Loan Rates | See Auto Loan Rates | See Auto Refinance Rates |
Navy Federal offers auto loans for new and used car purchases, as well as auto refinancing to help lower monthly payments or interest rates. The application process is easy and convenient, with the option to apply online through Navy Federal’s website or mobile app.
However, you can also call or visit one of its branch locations to apply in person. With preapproved auto loans available, members can increase their car buying power while taking advantage of discounts on select vehicles.
- Online preapproval and application process: You can get quickly preapproved and apply for an auto loan through Navy Federal’s website or mobile app.
- TrueCar car-buying service: Navy Federal has partnered with TrueCar to provide members with an online car-buying service. This offers a streamlined way to purchase and finance vehicles.
- Member incentives: Navy Federal provides members with exclusive discounts on select vehicles through its auto loan program, as well as discounts on rental cars, insurance and more.
- Extended loan terms: Enjoy extended loan terms of up to 96 months for purchasing or refinancing a car.
- Best for military service members and families: Navy Federal auto loans are best for service members and their families, offering tailored auto loans as well as personal loans, credit cards and more.
Navy Federal auto loan requirements
Other than the membership and vehicle requirements, Navy Federal doesn’t disclose some of its specific auto loan requirements. However, the lender claims multiple factors will be considered when determining eligibility. Typically, lenders take a look at things like your credit score, income and employment history.
To become a member, you must be:
- An active-duty servicemember
- A retiree or veteran
- An immediate family member
- Department of Defense personnel
- An eligible minor of a current member
When it comes to your vehicle, eligibility depends on the vehicle’s model year and mileage.
New vehicles must be 2024 or newer with fewer than 30,000 miles, while used vehicles can be from 2023 or older with over 30,000 miles.
Loan terms longer than 72 months are only available for vehicles with fewer than 7,500 miles. Additionally, a minimum loan amount of $30,000 is required for loan terms between 85 and 96 months.
Navy Federal pros and cons
When choosing the right lender and loan, there are many factors to consider. Here’s a list of the pros and cons of Navy Federal auto loans to help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Offers TrueCar online car-buying service Membership discounts for the purchase of certain vehicles APR discounts for active-duty and retired servicemembers | Maximum loan amounts not disclosed Auto loans only available to military members and their families Loan funds only available via check |
Navy Federal auto loans offer several advantages, including access to TrueCar’s online car-buying service. Members can also enjoy lower prices on certain vehicles and APR discounts are available to active-duty and retired military members.
However, maximum loan amounts are not disclosed, so you’ll need to apply to find out what you qualify for. Auto loans are only available to Navy Federal members who have a military affiliation. Additionally, once you’re approved, Navy Federal only offers payment via check (rather than direct deposit), which you can pick up at a branch or have mailed.
Navy Federal company overview
Founded in 1933, Navy Federal Credit Union serves over 14 million members who are former and current military personnel and their families.
With over 360 branch locations worldwide, Navy Federal offers a range of banking services, including savings accounts, auto loans, credit cards, mortgages and personal loans.
Navy Federal auto loan types offered
Navy Federal has a few different auto loan options with competitive rates and flexible terms, including the following:
- New auto loans: Financing for new vehicles with rates starting at 4.09% and terms ranging from 12 to 96 months.
- Used auto loans: Financing for used vehicles with rates starting at 4.99% and terms ranging from 12 to 72 months.
- Refinance auto loans: Refinance options with rates starting at 4.09% for new vehicles (up to 96 months) and 4.99% for used vehicles (up to 72 months).
How to get an auto loan with Navy Federal
You can apply for a car loan with Navy Federal Credit Union online, through its mobile app, over the phone, or at a branch location. Here’s what the application process looks like:
Submit personal details
When applying for an auto loan with Navy Federal, you’ll need to provide personal details, including:
- Contact information
- Housing
- Employment
- Income
You’ll also need to share any vehicle trade-in information and specify the repayment term and amount you want to finance, including the vehicle price, taxes and down payment.
If you’ve already chosen a vehicle, you’ll also need to provide the vehicle identification number (VIN), registration state, mileage and dealer’s or seller’s name.
You can use our auto loan calculator to get a better idea of what you can afford before you move forward with the loan.
Review your loan offer
You’ll receive a text or email regarding your application status. If approved, you receive your loan offers for you to review the interest rates, loan terms, fees and the amount you qualify for.
Finalize your loan
After selecting your loan offer, review and sign your loan agreement. Navy Federal will then mail you a check, or it can be picked up at a local branch. Once you purchase the vehicle, you have up to 90 days to send the title to Navy Federal.
Is a Navy Federal auto loan right for you?
If you’re current or former military personnel (or a family member of someone who is) and you’re looking to finance or refinance a car, Navy Federal Credit Union offers a variety of loan options that may suit your needs. Navy Federal’s auto loans feature competitive rates and flexible terms and come with several perks and incentives.
Additionally, the loan process is straightforward and Navy Federal offers same-day funding for new and used car financing. This may make it a good option for those who want to quickly purchase a vehicle.
How Navy Federal auto loans compare
Navy Federal Credit Union is a solid choice for those eligible for membership. With its low starting APR, discounts and wide range of loan terms, it offers buyers affordable options.
Below, we compared Navy Federal to new auto loan options from two other credit unions.
| Navy Federal Credit Union | Alliant Credit Union | PenFed Credit Union | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting APR | 4.09% | 5.74% (with autopay) | 5.24% |
| Loan terms | 12 to 96 months | 24 to 84 months | 36 to 84 months |
| Loan amounts | Starting at $250 | Starting at $4,000 | Up to $150,000 |
| Minimum credit score | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified |
Alliant Credit Union and PenFed Credit Union are alternative options for auto loans from credit unions, offering rates and flexible terms similar to Navy Federal Credit Union.
Frequently asked questions
For new cars, Navy Federal offers APRs as low as 4.09% and 4.99% for used cars. Navy Federal auto loan rates are competitive, but they vary based on factors like credit score, loan term and whether the car is new or used.
Rates typically start as low as 4.09% for new cars and 4.99% for used cars.
Navy Federal does not specify its minimum credit score for auto loans. Instead, approval depends on various factors, including credit history, income and loan amount. Generally, lenders offer better loan terms and interest rates to those with higher credit scores.
Navy Federal may be a great choice for auto loans, offering low rates, flexible terms and perks like preapproval, longer loan options and discounts on certain cars. Its financial products are specifically geared toward military members and their families.