Seth Godwin is a finance educator, consultant, and content creator. The Floridian posts helpful tips and advice, often about automotive topics as they relate to personal finance. While auto loan companies serve millions of Americans and enable folks to drive sparkling numbers off dealership lots, some of them are much less reputable than others. Here are three of the worst auto loan companies, according to Godwin.

3. Chrysler Capital

Godwin says they’re notorious for horrible customer service, system outages, and “randomly” repossessing cars after just one late payment. He says that the company will issue a repossession over late payments even if the delay was rooted in a system outage.

2. Credit Acceptance

“Credit Acceptance is a subprime and sub-par lender known for insanely high interest rates,” Godwin warns. The company also has a reputation for poor customer service…including excessive lending. This means the company tends to write loans for much higher than the actual value of the cars it’s financing.

The worst auto loan company is guilty of most everything above, they just have more dark spots on their record.

It’s Santander, Godwin says. The company’s rep is similar to Credit Acceptance, he explains, it’s just that they have a higher lawsuit and complaint count overall.

I’ll add that the best way to dodge predatory lending practices is to get educated on responsible vehicle financing. For many years, I sold cars at a lot here in the Midwest. It’s best to work backward from your dream ride:

• Decide what kind of car you really want. This might not happen “now,” but it’s something to work toward.
• Determine a realistic budget. Work in insurance costs, fuel, maintenance, and unexpected repairs.
• Evaluate your needs versus your wants and dial in your target make and model.
• Research your local new or used car market to understand average pricing.
• Depending on your situation, it might be best to pay cash for a vehicle, but if you’re financing, shop around to find the best rates and current deals.
• If you don’t understand loan terms or what you’re being asked to sign, walk away.