Mountain Credit Union

Mountain Credit Union was originally established in 1963 as a means for employees of the Federal Government to gain access to low-interest loans in western North Carolina. Membership has now been expanded to include anyone residing in an additional 10 counties across North Carolina.

Mountain Credit Union
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    How do Mountain Credit Union auto loans work?

    Mountain doesn’t make it clear what interest rates or repayment terms you can expect with one of its auto loans.

    Instead, additional benefits such as mechanical breakdown protection, 24-hour emergency roadside assistance and, GAP insurance are offered as incentives for applying.

    However, under a ‘regular loan’ category, Mountain states interest rates of 3.30% and repayment terms of 60 months.

    You’ll have to contact directly to confirm whether this can be used on a car loan, though.

    Credit score

    The minimum credit score requirement isn’t stated by Mountain.

    Generally, if you want a low interest rate on your loan, it’s better to have a good score.

    However, some credit unions can be very flexible when helping out members with poor credit.

    How Much Can You Borrow?

    This isn’t stated by Mountain. However, most credit unions will let you borrow between 80% and 120% of the market value of the car.

    What types of vehicles are eligible for financing?

    You can purchase cars, trailers, recreational vehicles, boats, motorcycles, and campers.

    How do I qualify?

    If you’re an employee of the Federal Government you can apply for an auto loan as long as you live in one of 20 counties in North Carolina.

    Membership is also open to those who live or work in one of 10 other counties listed by Mountain.

    What documents do I need?

    When applying for auto loans, you’ll usually need a form of photo ID, such as a driver's license, and proof of address.

    However, Mountain doesn’t state which documents are required so you’ll have to check before you apply.

    What are the fees?

    No fees are listed on the Mountain website. Credit unions tend not to charge fees on loans, but this will be made clear to you on application.

    How long does the loan process take?

    Members may choose to use the Mountain Credit Union portal to quickly apply for an auto loan.

    However, if you’re unable to access the portal, you can submit your details via an alternate web form. This should still only take around 10 minutes.

    A Mountain representative will review your application, but how long this takes can vary on a case by case basis.

    How to apply for an auto loan?

    The simplest way is via the member portal or online. Alternatively, you can apply in-branch.

    What payment methods are supported?

    You can set up automatic monthly payments from your checking account.

    Pros and Cons

    Pros

    • Auto loans come with additional benefits such as breakdown assistance
    • Fast applications via the online member portal

    Cons

    • Interest rates and fees are not made clear before application
    • Auto loans are only available to federal employees and residents in North Carolina

    Is Mountain Credit Union right for you?

    Due to restrictive membership criteria, most people will be excluded from applying for Mountain’s auto loans.

    If you'd like a wider range of options, and more transparency, before you apply for a loan, you might want to try Capital One.

    It offers low starting interest rates and is available nationwide.