Auto loans are where the credit-union advantage is largest in dollar terms. Banks average well over 7%; credit unions sit in the low-to-mid 5% range.
The latest auto loan averages
National average APRs from the NCUA Credit Union and Bank Rates report, rates as of December 26, 2025.
| Loan | Credit union avg | Bank avg | Gap |
|---|---|---|---|
| New car, 48 months | 5.32% | 7.33% | 2.01 pts |
| New car, 60 months | 5.44% | 7.41% | 1.97 pts |
| Used car, 36 months | 5.41% | 7.69% | 2.28 pts |
| Used car, 48 months | 5.53% | 7.73% | 2.20 pts |
What 2 points is worth
On a $30,000, 60-month new-car loan, the credit-union average (5.44%) versus the bank average (7.41%) cuts the monthly payment by roughly $30 and saves well over $1,500 in total interest across the loan. On a larger or longer loan the saving is bigger. Model it precisely in the auto-loan calculator.
How to capture it
- Check whether you can join an eligible credit union - membership is often a $5-$25 share deposit.
- Get pre-approved at the credit union before you visit the dealer.
- Compare the dealer’s financing offer against the credit-union pre-approval and take the cheaper APR.
See the new car loan page and the full comparison. National averages, general information, not financial advice - confirm the live rate with the lender.