Auto dealers, lenders looking for business

As the economy improves and personal wealth climbs, consumers may find they have greater disposable income. But will gains lead to more car purchases? Auto dealers and lenders sure hope so. According to the Columbus Dispatch, both are banking on favorable loan rates and accessibility to lead a comeback in the market. "There are some outstanding deals that you’re finding at regional and national banks," Greg McBride, senior financial analyst for Bankrate.com, told the Dispatch. "We’re seeing some of the lowest rates we’ve ever seen." The paper also reports that there is some mutual competition among dealers and lenders. James Bell, executive market analyst for Kelley Blue Book, told the Dispatch that market share is a hotly contested topic among both parties at the moment, which he believes could translate to consumer savings. The push comes as auto loan interest rates fell to their lowest levels in nearly 20 years. According to Bankrate.com, the interest rate on a four-year loan for a new car dipped to 6.21 percent at the end of January.