The source material provides a detailed analysis of auto loan interest rates in late 2025, arguing that a borrower's credit score is the single most important determinant of financing costs. Drawing on data from institutions like Experian, the article illustrates the massive financial gulf between tiers, noting that superprime borrowers (781+ FICO) secure rates near 5%, while deep subprime applicants (below 500 FICO) often face rates soaring above 15%. The episode explains that rates are also influenced by the Federal Reserve's recent rate cuts and the fact that used car loans consistently carry significantly higher APRs than new car financing due to increased risk. This analysis further explores other mitigating factors, such as loan terms and regional economic variations, to show that rates are highly personalized. Finally, the material offers practical strategies for optimizing loan terms, urging consumers to improve their credit health and actively compare offers from multiple lenders to realize substantial savings.