Lending Tree Auto Loans Review

Navigating the dizzyingly complex landscape of the US auto loans market is often a treacherous undertaking, one in which the likelihood of getting ripped off by a predatory lender is high. That's why the people behind Lending Tree set up their company back in 1996, with the intention of creating an easy-to-use online marketplace that connects borrowers with the auto loans that are best suited to their needs. Rather than being an actual auto loan provider, Lending Tree is a live digital marketplace with connections to a vast range of trusted loan providers.

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    With their platform, you can shop around for auto loans and enjoy access to a number of features that are not available on other well-known loan marketplaces. The platform is more proactive than a standard price comparison site, promising to get you connected to the right loans for you within a single day.

    If you don't know where to start when it comes to finding an auto loan, read this detailed review of Lending Tree to see if it is the resource you are looking for.

    Lending Tree Financing Offers

    As the largest online lending marketplace in America, Lending Tree is connected to all of the major auto insurance providers, as well as plenty of boutique lenders that cater to more niche types of motorists. This means that you will likely be able to find any and every kind of loan option via Lending Tree.

    You can use their platform to secure the following types of auto loans: 

     Alternative Vehicle Loans 

    In addition, you can also use their digital comparison marketplace to finance vehicles other than cars. Lending Tree offers loans for motorcycles, RVs, boats, watercraft (i.e. jet skis or wave blasters), and extreme sports vehicles such as snowmobiles and dune buggies. 

    Credit Score and Loan Terms

    As you may have guessed, the loan terms for loans provided through Lending Tree will differ significantly depending on the provider you are matched with. You can expect to receive a loan ranging from between one and seven years, with all loans longer than five years carrying higher interest rates.

    You may also find that rates are not very competitive for those with low credit, although all credit types are welcome. 

    Lending Tree Auto Loans Overview

    APR
    3.99% - 34.99%
    Minimum requirements
    No Minimum Income Requirements
    Soft Credit Check
    Yes
    Availability
    50 states
    Late Fees
    Yes

    How Much Can You Borrow?

    Lending Tree relies on a wide range of providers to offer loans. Depending on your situation, you can borrow between $5000 and $35,000

    What Types of Vehicles Are Eligible for a Financing Loan?

    All non-commercial vehicles are acceptable for financing through Lending Tree.

    How Do I Qualify? 

    Given the wide range of providers offered by Lending Tree, the requirements for qualification will vary significantly depending on the lender you are matched with. However, you will most likely have to meet these basic requirements.

    What Personal Criteria Should I Meet to Get a Loan?

    • Be at least 18 years old
    • Have a 'good' to 'excellent' credit rating
    • Be a US citizen or permanent US resident 

    In addition, the car you wish to purchase must be under 10 years old and have less than 120,000 miles on the clock. Those looking for refinancing should know they Lending Tree will expect their current loan to have at least two years left on the term, as well as an outstanding balance of between $5000 and $50,000. 

    What Documents Should I Provide?

    If you're a first-time user of Lending Tree, you will need to provide some preliminary information so that they can match you with the right financing. Here is what you will need to have ready with you:

    • Your financial information, including your earnings, source of income, and bankruptcy history.
    • Your Social Security Number and driver's license.
    • Proof of residency, such as a utility bill or a valid green card if you were born overseas.
    • Up-to-date credit data. If you do not have your FICO score ready to go, you can submit to a credit check from Lending Tree.
    • The type of vehicle you wish to purchase, including the make and model.
    • The actual amount of loan required - give as precise an estimate as possible.
    • The size of the down payment you wish to/are able to make.
    • Information specifying whether the loan is for a new purchase or a refinance. 

    With all of this information, you will be able to complete the application process in a few minutes.

    Information Needed Once a Loan Has Been Approved

    Once your loan is approved through Lending Tree, you will need to provide additional information, as well as the information already provided, to your new lender. Here is what you need:

    • Bank statements
    • Proof of citizenship
    • Information about your employer
    • Your most recent income tax return
    • Your Social Security Number

    After this final step, you will be able to agree to a loan and give an e-signature to seal the deal. Make sure to read all of the terms and conditions very carefully before agreeing to an auto loan.

    LendingTree Fees

    As a free online marketplace, Lending Tree does not charge any fees for its service whatsoever. In addition, lenders provided through Lending Tree will, as a rule, not charge any upfront fees or payments in exchange for accessing a loan. It is this feature that makes Lending Tree one of the most cost-effective options on the market right now.

    Again, the APR charged will vary massively depending on the provider you end up with, so make sure to read those T&Cs carefully.

    Remember, if you have a FICO score that is higher than 800, you are much more likely to be offered low APR auto loans. 

    How to Apply for a Loan?

    Once you have this information at hand, you can complete their online application process:

    • Go to www.lendingtree.com
    • Click on the 'Apply' section
    • Select the exact type of auto loan you are interested in
    • Enter all of the required information about the type of vehicle you wish to purchase and the ideal loan terms you want
    • Enter your personal and financial information
    • Fill in the required information about your living situation
    • Enter your social security details
    • Click on the 'View Free Offers' button to complete the process 

    What Payment Methods Are Supported?

    You can pay via online banking and debit cards, as well as via check. Depending on the provider, you may be able to pay with other financing options, such as previous loans. Read their website for the full low-down on accepted payment methods.

    Can I View Loans Online?

    Yes. You can view, manage and make payments entirely online. Simply log into your account to view your loans.

    What is the Estimated Time for Pre-Qualification and Loan Sanction?

    You will receive pre-approval within 24 hours of making an application. Loan sanction can also take place within 24 hours, although it is more likely to take a couple of days.

    Pros and Cons

    Pros

    • No fees charged for accessing tailored auto loans; Lending Tree is a completely free-to-use service.
    • A straightforward online application process that takes a few minutes
    • A massive range of connected lenders means you will have a significant amount of choice
    • Multiple financing options available to borrowers of all backgrounds and financial situations
    • Live loan rate trackers that allow you to see the best daily rates provided by major lenders
    • You will receive offers and preapprovals within 24 hours of completing your application. 

    Cons

    • As part of their mission to connect you with a lender, Lending Tree will share your contact information with lenders that they believe to be appropriate.
    • They share your phone number far and wide, with the result sometimes being that borrowers will be inundated with calls even after they have found their insurance.
    • If you have a poor credit history, you may find that their loan offers are not very competitive. Much of what Lending Tree offers is catered towards people with good credit history.

    Is Lending Tree Right for You?

    Lending Tree is ideal for those who are unsure which auto insurance is right for them. It is arguably the most convenient option for those who want their auto insurance arranged swiftly and efficiently.

    Get Financed

    Lending Tree promises choice above all else. If you find that your current car loan does not meet your needs, then this is an ideal platform for finding a provider that will cater to you.