When you're getting ready to purchase a new car, you should know the average interest rates for auto loans. If you know that information, you can know what to expect as far as your interest rate and compare offers from lenders. Your income, credit score, and credit history will all affect your rate. The credit score you have when you apply is the biggest factor here because it indicates how risky you are when it comes to repaying. Generally, the higher your score, the less you have to pay in interest.