JG
Jonathan Gonzalez
Aug 16, 2023
My experience at Shell Federal Credit Union was truly disappointing. Despite having a well-qualified background, established credit history, and a credit score considered to be “excellent”, I encountered immense frustration while trying to secure a loan. Margarita stood out with her exceptional patience and dedication in advocating for my case with Shell’s underwriters.
It was baffling to witness the contrast between the way Shell seemed eager to push their third-party lending partner, Auto Pro Loans, with their exorbitant loan amounts and APRs, while simultaneously failing to approve established members through their own internal lending system. This inconsistency left me perplexed by the institution’s priorities. Despite Margarita’s efforts, the system’s flawed approach overshadowed her diligence, leading to a terrible lending experience overall.
Adding to the frustration, the experience took an even more disappointing turn. Between the initial pre-approval for a loan amount and the subsequent multiple credit checks conducted to secure the best APR rates, I was dismayed to discover that Shell had quietly raised their APRs without any attempt to communicate this change to me. It was only after I inquired about the rates that I was made aware of this significant alteration, further eroding my trust in the institution. Despite Margarita's commendable efforts, these concerning practices left me with a terrible perception of Shell FCU’s lending services.
The once-held belief that credit unions were the go-to destination for lower APRs and higher approval odds seems to have faded into obscurity, especially in the case of Shell FCU. The experiences of hidden APR increases, inconsistent lending practices, and the prioritization of third-party lending partners have shattered the perception that credit unions inherently offer better financial solutions. While Margarita's dedication shone through, it's clear that the days of credit unions being synonymous with superior lending options are unfortunately gone, at least within the context of my interaction with Shell Federal Credit Union.