Affirm

How Affirm Works (For Car Parts & Automotive Purchases)

1. What is Affirm?

Affirm is a buy now, pay later (BNPL) financing company that allows customers to purchase items and pay over time through fixed monthly payments—without hidden fees or compounding interest.


2. How It Works – Step by Step

 Step 1: Choose Affirm at Checkout

When shopping for car parts online (e.g. performance upgrades, suspension kits, wheels, etc.), select Affirm as your payment method at checkout.

  • Available on many websites that offer aftermarket parts and services.

 Step 2: Quick Credit Check

Affirm runs a soft credit check (doesn’t affect your credit score) to determine if you qualify and what payment options are available.

  • Factors considered: credit score, purchase amount, and payment history with Affirm.

 Step 3: Pick a Payment Plan

If approved, you’ll be shown several options, usually:

  • 3, 6, or 12 months (sometimes up to 36 months for bigger purchases)

  • APR: Typically ranges from 0% to 36%, depending on credit and retailer promos.

  • No hidden fees – The total amount you see is what you’ll pay, including interest (if applicable).

Step 4: Make Payments

You’ll make monthly payments directly to Affirm through:

  • Affirm App

  • Website

  • Or set up auto-pay

Affirm sends payment reminders and shows your remaining balance.


3. Key Features

Feature Details
Approval Instant decision after soft credit check
Interest Rates 0%–36% APR, based on credit
Payment Terms 3 to 36 months
Fees $0 hidden fees. No late fees (but missing payments may affect future approval)
Loan Amount Varies; can range from ~$50 to several thousand dollars

4. Pros & Cons for Car Part Buyers

 Pros:

  • Split big purchases (like turbos, coilovers, or engine parts) into manageable monthly payments.

  • No hidden fees or prepayment penalties.

  • Works well for large or unexpected repairs.

 Cons:

  • Not everyone gets 0% APR.

  • Can impact your credit if you miss payments.

  • Some purchases may not be eligible depending on the retailer.


5. Example

You’re buying $1,200 in performance parts. At checkout, Affirm offers:

  • 0% APR for 6 months → $200/mo

  • 15% APR for 12 months → ~$108/mo

  • You pick the one that works best, and pay Affirm monthly.