FIRST-TIME CAR BUYER LOAN
FEWER DETOURS TO FINANCE YOUR FIRST CAR

Everyone remembers buying their first car. We want yours to be a good memory.

Our First-Time Car Buyer Loan offers affordable fixed-rate financing with fewer roadblocks and built-in, expert guidance through our Auto Buying Concierge service. It’s designed to open the door to car ownership, even if you don’t have much credit history or you’ve never had a loan.

With a quick, easy application and no surprises, we take the stress out of getting your first car loan. So, if you're commuting to your first job or upgrading from a family hand-me-down, our First-Time Car Buyer Loan is here to help you get on the road with confidence.

Why this loan is perfect for first-time buyers:

      • No co-borrower or previous credit history required
      • Finance up to 100% of the vehicle’s value, plus tax, tags, warranty and GAP
      • Free access to our Auto Buying Concierge service

Other Key Features:

      • Fixed-rate as low as 5.99%% APR1
      • Loan terms up to 75 months2
      • Borrow up to $30,000

Loan Program Requirements:

      • Must be at least 18 years old
      • No prior auto or mortgage loan history
      • Buying a 2015 or newer vehicle with under 100,000 miles
      • $1,000 minimum down payment

 

Guy smiling while driving a car

STEPHANE'S STORY

Hear how Villanova football player Stephane tackled his first car purchase with Steve, our Auto Buying Concierge, by his side. From cutting through sales tactics to avoiding hidden fees, Steve was just a call away with expert advice. It’s a real look at how the right support can turn a stressful experience into a confident decision. 


LEARN MORE ABOUT AUTO BUYING CONCIERGE

FAQs

You may qualify if you:
  • have at least 6 months of consecutive employment
  • or are a recent college grad with a job.
New grads with less than 6 months of work may need to show proof of graduation along with pay stubs or an offer letter.
Your credit history is part of your credit report showing how you have handled taking on and repaying debt over time. This information is used by potential lenders—and in some cases, landlords—to determine how reliable you are. Lenders look at your credit history when considering your application for new credit or a loan. Your credit history includes things like:
  • Payment history – whether you’ve paid on time or have missed payments. Collections, liens and bankruptcies will also be considered
  • Credit mix – What types of credit you currently have access to, such as credit cards and personal loans
  • Existing debt – How much debt you currently carry and how much you’re using credit that’s available to you
  • Number of accounts – How many credit lines you have open vs. closed and how long they’ve been open
  • Inquiries – How often you’ve applied for new credit
A positive credit history can help you qualify for better loan rates, increase your chances of approval and even help with rental application approvals.
This loan is specifically designed for first-time borrowers. We don’t require previous credit history or a co-borrower. That said, your credit report should be free of derogatory information, excluding medical collections.
The maximum amount you can borrow through the First-time Car Buyer Loan program is $30,000. To keep your loan affordable, your car payment shouldn’t exceed 15% of your gross monthly income.
Guaranteed Asset Protection (GAP) covers the difference between what you owe on your auto loan and the amount paid by your insurance company if your car is totaled or stolen. It’s optional, but can be especially helpful if you made a small down payment.

Tools & Resources

1Rates are effective as of  October 15, 2025. Rates and terms are subject to change based on market conditions and borrower’s eligibility. Ardent Credit Union has a tiered rate policy, which applies different interest rates to borrowers, based upon the borrower’s credit worthiness. Not everyone will qualify for the best rate. Interest rate based on borrower's credit score at the time of application. Borrower must meet credit union lending guidelines. Click here for membership eligibility requirements, which apply. Auto Loans are not available in Puerto Rico. 

2Monthly payment example of $16.02 per $1,000 borrowed based on 75-month loan at 5.99% APR.

 

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Since 1977, Ardent Credit Union has been delivering smart, affordable, full-service banking in the area. By working hard, making friends, and solving problems for clients, the team has built a reputation for efficient, reliable financial services. 

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