In PE, what should I know about balloon loans for car loans?
In Prince Edward Island, a balloon loan for a car means your monthly payments are lower because a significant portion of the principal is deferred to a single, large final payment at the end of the loan term. While this can make a vehicle more affordable on a month-to-month basis, it introduces substantial risks. You'll face the choice of making that large lump sum payment, selling the vehicle, or refinancing it. While less common for traditional car loans in Canada compared to leases, the principles apply if offered. In a potentially volatile 2025 market, refinancing could mean higher interest rates, and the vehicle's market value might be less than the balloon payment, leaving you with a shortfall. This structure shifts considerable financial risk to the future, making it imperative for PE consumers to meticulously plan for the final payment and assess potential refinancing costs or vehicle depreciation to avoid financial strain.