Buying a car is one of the most exciting "milestone" purchases you’ll make, but it almost always comes with a standard hurdle: the credit check. Understanding how this process works can save you from surprises at the dealership and help you secure a better deal. Why Do Lenders Check Your Credit?

: Often used for initial eligibility or quotes. These do not affect your credit score and are not visible to other lenders.

: Lenders often prefer scores between 660 and 700 for standard loans.

Not all "checks" are created equal. It's important to know the difference: