Ready to refinance your car loan?
Swap your existing loan for one that’s a better fit — from a sharper rate to more flexible terms. If your repayments feel too high or your loan no longer works for your needs, refinancing could open up better options for you.
Rethinking your loan?
How car loan refinancing can make a difference
Whether you call it car loan refinancing, auto loan refinancing, or replacing your current vehicle finance, the goal is the same — finding a loan that works better for you. It could mean smaller payments, a lower rate, a shorter term, or combining debts into one. Whatever’s driving your change, we’ll help you weigh up the options.
Lower your payment
See if a new loan could free up more room in your budget.
Pay off faster
Shorten your term to reduce the time you’re in debt.
Better interest rate
Compare options that could cost less over the life of your loan.*
Flexible features
Choose repayment terms or extra-payment options that suit your plans.
Debt consolidation
Combine your car loan with other debts for a single, simpler repayment.
Before you refinance
Refinancing can be a smart move, but it’s worth looking at the whole picture before you decide. Here are some of the key things to weigh up so you can make a confident choice.
- Any break fees or charges. Understand the cost of ending your current vehicle finance early and how it might affect your savings.
- Interest rate changes. Check how a new rate could change the total cost of your car loan over time.
- Loan term impacts. A lower monthly repayment over a longer term might mean paying more interest overall.
- Your future plans. Think about whether you might upgrade your vehicle, change your car loan, or pay it off ahead of schedule.
Refinancing with confidence
Clear advice, shaped around you
No two car loan refinance stories are the same. Some Kiwis want breathing room, some aim to pay off faster, and others look to consolidate debt or lower their overall cost. Whatever’s driving your change, we’ll help you make it with confidence.
Make your next move smarter
We look at where you are now, where you want to be, and map out refinance options that match your life — not just your loan paperwork.
Build a loan that pulls its weight
Whether it’s flexible repayments, a term that suits your plans, or rolling other debts into one, we’ll help shape a setup that works harder for you.
Keep the jargon in the bin
You’ll always know what’s going on and why. We talk straight, explain clearly, and make sure you feel confident at every step.
See if refinancing your car loan could better suit your budget or goals. We’ll outline what’s available, and you choose whether to move forward.
Your questions, answered
How do I know if refinancing my car loan is worth it?
It depends on your current loan terms, any fees for switching, and what's available from other lenders. We can help you compare the total cost of your current loan with potential new options, so you can see whether it could make financial sense for you. Keep in mind that refinancing can extend your loan term, and savings aren't guaranteed - it's worth being clear on what you want to achieve first.
Do I need to change my car if I refinance?
No - refinancing replaces your loan, not your vehicle. Your car stays the same; only the finance arrangement changes.
What costs should I watch out for?
It's important to factor in any exit fees from your current loan, as well as establishment or documentation fees for the new one. We'll outline all known costs upfront so there are no surprises. Full fee details are in the Loan Information section below and in your loan contract.
Can I refinance if I've missed payments in the past?
Possibly. Some lenders will still consider your application, even if your credit history isn't perfect. We'll walk you through the options that may be available. It's never guaranteed, and rates may be higher for lower credit profiles, but keeping up with repayments on a new loan can also help rebuild your credit over time. Subject to lender criteria and approval.
Will refinancing affect my credit score?
When you start, we run a soft credit check to look at your options - and a soft check doesn't affect your credit score. If you go ahead, the lender runs a full credit check, which is recorded on your credit file and may have a small, temporary impact. The bigger picture is whether the new loan improves your situation over the long run.
How long does refinancing take?
Timelines vary depending on your circumstances and the lender you choose. In many cases the process can be completed within a working day once all documents are provided, but we'll give you a realistic timeframe for your situation. Approval is subject to meeting lending criteria, and an affordability test applies.
Can I borrow more when I refinance my car loan?
In some cases, yes - depending on your vehicle's value, your equity, and what you can comfortably afford, you may be able to borrow a little more when you refinance. It's worth being clear on your goal first, as borrowing more increases what you repay overall. Subject to lender criteria and approval.
Can I refinance my car loan if I'm self-employed?
Yes - being self-employed doesn't rule you out. Lenders will usually want to see proof of income, like bank statements or financial records, to understand what you can comfortably repay. We'll let you know what's needed.
Can I pay off my refinanced loan early?
Yes, in most cases you can make early or lump-sum repayments on your new loan, which can reduce the total interest you pay. Some lenders charge an early repayment fee, so it's worth checking your loan contract before you go ahead.
What happens if I can't make a repayment?
Get in touch with your lender as soon as you can - the earlier the better. Missing a repayment may mean fees and could affect your credit score, so keeping the lines open is the most important thing. Lenders can often work something out if they know early.
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Loan Information
Fixed interest rates for vehicle loans range from 7.95% p.a. to a maximum of 29.95% p.a. on a minimum 12 month to a maximum 84-month loan term. Fixed interest rates for personal loans range from 9.95% p.a. to a maximum of 29.95% p.a. on a minimum 12 month to a maximum 84-month loan term. The actual interest rate charged to you will depend on your circumstances, the type of lending required and the security provided.
Fees apply, including an establishment fee of up to $350 and an introducer fee of up to $995. Also, lenders may charge a PPSR fee of between $0 and $14. For example: On a loan of $10,000 over 24 months at 9.95% p.a. with Establishment and Introducer fees totalling $495 and a PPSR Fee of $7.39, the total amount to repay is $11,627 which is 24 monthly payments of $485. Those amounts don't include ongoing fees, such as Service Fees, charged by the lender. You can find full fee information in the loan contract. We recommend that you check the fees before accepting the loan offer. See more about lender fees here.
Approval is subject to meeting lending criteria, and affordability test applies.
