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Buying a car involves more than securing financing. From finding your perfect match to protecting your investment, a little research goes a long way! There are many things you can before and after you buy to ensure things go smoothly, and Spectrum Credit Union is here for you every step of the way.

We share resources to help you find a great deal and partnerships to help you save money too.

Before you purchase

Do your research with Kelley Blue Book
If you’re still in the early phases of car shopping, Kelley Blue Book can help you narrow your search with its advanced Car Finder tool. If you’re further along in the car shopping process, Kelley Blue Book can help you determine the true value of your new or used vehicle before you buy (or sell). Visit kbb.com for expert advice and peace of mind that you’re getting a great deal.

Get pre-approved for an auto loan
Getting pre-approved for your auto loan is simple. Click here to apply online before you begin car shopping. To speak with a customer service representative, stop by your local Spectrum Credit Union branch, or give us a call at 800-782-8782. For those outside the U.S., please call 510-251-6000.

Discounts to help you protect your vehicle

Auto insurance
We know how important your car is to you. That’s why we partner with Liberty Mutual Insurance to offer you great rates on high-quality auto insurance products.

Liberty Mutual Insurance was ranked 75th on the 2019 Fortune 100 and rated “A” (Excellent) for financial strength. Offering industry-leading insurance products at competitive rates, Liberty Mutual Insurance is a great fit for your insurance needs. 

As a member of Spectrum Credit Union, you receive a 5% discount1 on auto insurance policies with Liberty Mutual Insurance. 

Guaranteed Asset Protection (GAP)
Spectrum Credit Union and Allied Solutions provide our members the opportunity to protect their vehicle purchase with Guaranteed Asset Protection Advantage, or GAP Advantage. In most cases, vehicle values depreciate as soon as they are driven off the lot. That means within a short period of time, the market value of your vehicle may be lower than what you owe on your auto loan. In the event of an incident resulting in total loss or unrecovered theft of your vehicle, most insurance companies will only pay the Actual Cash Value (ACV). This could leave you with a significant balance of the remaining auto loan balance.

For example, if your loan balance is $15,000 but your insurance company will only pay $13,000 for a total loss, GAP will pay the $2,000 difference.

As part of this voluntary, non-insurance plan with Allied Solutions, Spectrum Credit Union members may be eligible for a $1,000 finance credit toward the purchase of a new vehicle following a GAP Advantage covered event.

Mechanical Repair Coverage (MRC)
A breakdown can be troubling enough without the added worry of expensive repairs.
The older your vehicle gets, the more expensive it can be to fix it – and the more often you need to. Mechanical Repair Coverage may help keep those costs in check, saving your budget from future unexpected repair costs.2

1 Discount varies by state.

Mechanical Repair Coverage is provided and administered by Consumer Program Administrators, Inc. in all states except CA, where coverage is offered as insurance by Virginia Surety Company, Inc., in NH, where coverage is provided and administered by Consumer Program Administrators, Inc. dba Consumer Warranty Program Administrators, in TX, where coverage is provided and administered by Consumer Program Administrators, Inc. dba The Administrators of Consumer Programs (TX License #175), in FL and OK, where coverage is provided and administered by Automotive Warranty Services of Florida, Inc. (Florida License #60023 and Oklahoma License #44198051), and in WA, where coverage is provided by National Product Care Company and administered by Consumer Program Administrators, Inc., all located at 175 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, Illinois 60604, 1- 800-752-6265. This coverage is made available to you by CUNA Mutual Insurance Agency, Inc.

The purchase of Mechanical Repair Coverage is optional. This document provides general information about Mechanical Repair Coverage and should not be solely relied upon when purchasing coverage. Be sure to read the Vehicle Service Contract or the Insurance Policy, which will explain the exact terms, conditions, and exclusions. Coverage varies by state. Replacement parts may be new, used, non-OEM or remanufactured of like kind and quality.

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If you’re eligible for membership, we’re ready to hear from you. Not sure if you’re eligible? You can check if you qualify here.

Why join Spectrum Credit Union? Learn more.

From everyday finance to life’s big money moments, it’s better when you belong.