Shopping for financing before you purchase your next car might seem counterintuitive. Your impulse may be to buy first and worry about making payments later.

There are several reasons to crunch numbers before crunching gravel during the test drive. First, prequalifying for a car loan — just as you would for a home mortgage — lets you know what you can afford. Second, comparing loan rates, leasing and financing options lets you determine how to best pay for the vehicle.

Although interest rates on car loans have been relatively stable, the size of the average auto loan is increasing, according to the Federal Reserve Board. This makes finding the lowest rate even more important.

This financing section will help you locate the most competitive rates and guide you through the car-financing process.