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Credit Score for a Car Loan

Minimum scores, how banks price by score band and how to improve your score before applying.

Updated 30 September 2026 · 8 lenders tracked
Lowest car loan rate
7.45%
Canara Bank Car Loan
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What you need to know

Your credit score is the single biggest factor in the rate you get. Several banks publish score-based pricing — Union Bank charges 7.60% for 825+ but 10.00% below 650.

How banks price by score

LenderCredit scoreRate
Union Bank of India Car Loan825 and above7.60% (EBLR − 0.40%)
Union Bank of India Car LoanBelow 65010.00% (EBLR + 2.00%)
SBI Car Loan800 and above (3 – 5 year loan)8.40%
SBI Car LoanLower score bandsUp to 9.35%
Bank of Baroda Car LoanMinimum 701 to be eligible7.60% – 11.30% floating by profile
ICICI Bank Car LoanPriced by CIBIL and car model8.40% onwards

On ₹8,00,000 for 5 years, the gap between 7.60% and 10.00% is about ₹55,754 in extra interest.

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Improve your score before applying

  • Pay every EMI and card bill on time — payment history carries the most weight
  • Keep credit card use below about 30% of the limit
  • Avoid several loan applications in a short time; each hard enquiry is recorded
  • Check your report on CIBIL, Experian, Equifax and CRIF High Mark and dispute errors
  • Keep old credit cards open to lengthen history
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Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum CIBIL score for a car loan?

There is no universal minimum; Bank of Baroda requires 701+, and scores of 750+ get approvals most easily.

For information and comparison only. Loan terms, rates and rules change — confirm with the lender and read the Key Facts Statement before borrowing.