Auto Approve vs PenFed

Auto Approve, established in 2016 and based in North Plymouth, Minnesota, offers auto loan refinancing and lease buyout services. They aim to streamline the process for customers looking to reduce monthly payments or purchase their leased vehicles. Serving a variety of vehicles, including cars, trucks, motorcycles, and RVs, Auto Approve partners with a network of lenders to provide refinancing options tailored to individual needs. A key feature of their service is the online application process, which allows for pre-qualification without requiring a Social Security number. They also offer optional GAP insurance to protect against vehicle depreciation. While some customers appreciate the efficiency and flexibility, others have noted concerns with communication during the process. Auto Approve holds an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), reflecting their commitment to resolving customer issues. If you’re interested in exploring how their services could meet your refinancing needs, take a closer look at the full review for more insights into their offerings and customer experiences.

Pentagon Federal Credit Union (PenFed) was established in 1935 and is headquartered in McLean, Virginia. As the second-largest credit union in the United States, PenFed serves nearly three million members, offering a range of financial products, including auto loans for both purchasing and refinancing vehicles. PenFed's auto loan offerings feature competitive starting Annual Percentage Rates (APRs) ranging from 5.44% for new cars to 6.19% for used cars, with loans up to $150,000 and terms between 36 to 84 months. Unique to PenFed is their online car-buying service, which allows members to find vehicles and potentially receive discounts or rebates when financing through the credit union. Additionally, they offer pre-qualification with a soft credit check, making it easy for potential borrowers to explore their options without impacting their credit scores. Customer feedback highlights the ease of the online application process and the benefits of credit union membership. However, some users note that membership requires an initial deposit and that there are no discounts for automatic payments. Overall, PenFed's auto loans are well-regarded for their favorable rates and member-focused services, appealing particularly to those who leverage their car-buying platform.