Need a car but worried your credit score will hold you back? You’re not alone. Many people with less-than-perfect credit assume getting approved for an auto loan is nearly impossible—but that’s not the case. Plenty of lenders and dealerships specialize in bad credit financing, making it possible to get behind the wheel even if your score is low.
Whether you’re looking for a new or used car, this guide will walk you through some of the best places to secure an auto loan with bad credit. We’ll cover online lending networks that connect you with dealerships, as well as car dealers that work directly with bad credit buyers.
Let’s dive into your options so you can start driving sooner rather than later.
Networks That Connect You to Bad Credit Car Dealers
If you’re struggling to find a dealership that will approve your loan, these lending networks can help. They connect you with car dealers that specialize in bad credit financing, making it easier to secure a loan even if your credit score is low.
1. Auto Credit Express
- Credit score requirement: 400
- Loan term: Up to 72 months
- Open to applicants with poor or non-existent credit, including those with a history of bankruptcy
- Accredited with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau
2. CarsDirect
- Credit score requirement: None
- Loan term: Up to 72 months
- Establishes connections with dealers within a 24-hour timeframe
- Accredited with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau
3. car.Loan
- Credit score requirement: None
- Loan term: Up to 72 months
- Accepts all credit types. Options to lease, buy, or rent.
- Offers same-day approval
4. myAutoLoan
- Credit score requirement: 575
- Loan term: 24 to 84 months
- Provides up to four loan offers for customers to compare
- Accredited with an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau
Dealers Accepting Bad Credit Applicants
Prefer to work directly with a dealership? These car dealers offer in-house financing and bad credit-friendly loan options, giving you a more straightforward path to car ownership.
5. DriveTime
DriveTime is renowned for its dedicated commitment to helping those struggling with poor credit.
6. CarMax
As one of the most prominent used-car dealerships in the US, CarMax provides a vast selection of vehicles. CarMax looks at more than just your credit score.
7. Carvana
Carvana is transforming the traditional car purchasing process with its advanced online dealership model.
Tips for Getting a Car Loan with Bad Credit
The process of buying a car with a low credit score can seem challenging, but don’t let your poor credit history deter you. Here are some strategies to boost your chances of securing a bad credit auto loan.
Preparing Your Credit Report
Your credit report is an essential document for financial institutions and car dealerships. Despite having bad credit, there are ways to improve the appearance of your credit history. First, request a copy of your report from the credit bureaus and meticulously review it for errors.
Incorrect data, such as unpaid debts that you’ve actually settled, can unfairly lower your score. Rectifying these errors can help increase your credit score.
Moreover, consider taking steps to improve your credit before applying for an auto loan. Plan to pay off overdue debts, avoid taking on new debt, and make sure to make all payments on time. Remember, rebuilding credit takes time, but it’s worth the effort when it comes to bad credit auto financing.
Budgeting for Your Car Loan
Before stepping foot in a bad credit car dealership, evaluate your monthly budget to understand how much you can comfortably afford for a car payment. While it might be tempting to aim for the car of your dreams, staying within a realistic budget is essential, especially for car buyers with bad credit.
A higher monthly payment can strain your budget and increase the risk of default, which could further damage your credit score. So, be sure to factor in the total cost of owning a car, including insurance, maintenance, fuel, and, of course, your monthly loan payments.
Importance of a Down Payment
Having a down payment can play a significant role in obtaining a bad credit car loan. It lowers the total amount you need to borrow, reduces your monthly payments, and demonstrates to lenders that you’re serious about buying a car.
Even though it might be challenging to save a considerable sum to put down on a car, every little bit helps. A larger down payment can also help you avoid being “upside down” on your loan, a situation where you owe more on the car than it’s worth.
Cosigning and Its Implications
If you’re having trouble securing an auto loan due to your bad credit, consider finding a cosigner. A cosigner is someone with a better credit history who agrees to take on the responsibility of your loan if you’re unable to make the payments.
While this can increase your chances of approval, it’s a significant responsibility. Ensure your potential co-signer fully understands the implications before moving forward.
Remember, while your credit scores play a significant role when it comes to purchasing a vehicle, they don’t completely define your options. With careful planning and thoughtful decision-making, buying a new car with bad credit is possible.
Bottom Line
Applying for an auto loan with bad credit can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. Numerous car dealerships and online platforms are ready to offer bad credit car loans, regardless of your credit score.
The key is to research thoroughly and understand all the options available. And while you’re at it, continue to work on improving your credit score. It’s a marathon, not a sprint, but with persistence, you can achieve your financial goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What other factors should I consider before applying for a bad credit auto loan?
Beyond credit score, consider factors like the loan term, monthly payment amounts, and interest rates. Be aware of any prepayment penalties, processing fees, or mandatory insurance coverage that lenders may require. Additionally, compare various dealerships and online platforms to understand their policies and customer reviews, ensuring you’re working with a trustworthy provider.
How do buy-here, pay-here dealerships differ from traditional lenders for bad credit loans?
Buy-here, pay-here dealerships offer financing directly to customers, often without a third-party lender involved. While this makes them more flexible with approvals for bad credit applicants, interest rates tend to be higher, and the selection of cars might be limited. Traditional lenders may offer broader options and more competitive rates if your credit qualifies.
Is a shorter or longer loan term better for buyers with poor credit?
A shorter loan term will generally result in higher monthly payments but less overall interest paid. A longer term might reduce monthly payments, but you may end up paying significantly more interest over time. Consider your monthly budget and long-term goals to find the best balance.
How can I tell if an auto loan offer is fair given my credit situation?
Research the average auto loan rates available to borrowers with your credit score, and compare them with the rates you’re being offered. Make sure there are no hidden fees, and understand the total amount you’ll end up paying by the end of the term. This can help you judge if an offer is reasonable.
