What lenders look at besides credit score
Credit score is the headline factor, but four other variables can make or break your approval. Most people don't know about them until they're declined.
Vehicle age and mileage
Hard caps. Most lenders won't refinance vehicles older than 10 years or with more than 150,000 miles. A handful go to 12 years / 175k but they charge for the risk.
Loan-to-value (LTV) ratio
The size of your loan relative to the car's wholesale value. Above 125% LTV, options shrink fast. Above 140%, you're effectively shut out of mainstream refi.
Debt-to-income (DTI)
Your total monthly debt payments divided by your gross monthly income. Most lenders cap at 45–50%. Auto refi lenders are slightly more flexible than mortgage lenders here, but not by much.
Recent payment history
A single 30-day late on any account in the last 12 months knocks you out of prime tiers at most lenders. Two lates and you're looking at subprime options only.
Ready to see real numbers?
Run the savings calc — no email, no signup.