How to Buy a Used Car with Bad Credit

Sometimes your financial situation can spiral out of control despite your best intentions. Unexpected medical bills, a car accident or losing your job can all cause massive debt and ruin your credit. Once you are perceived as a credit risk, it can be difficult to make a major purchase, such as a car. However, if you have been browsing used cars and need to work around your bad credit, we're here to help with a few tips that may help you obtain a vehicle.

Before you start looking for a used car, it can be helpful to understand your financial options. Some dealers offer in-house financing, which means you pay the dealership directly. This can be helpful if you have bad credit and if you have already been turned down for a loan at your local bank. Extended payment plans may keep monthly payments low; however, you may want to remember that this credit route means that you may be paying for your car up to five years.

Doing your homework before you browse used cars online or in lots can help you understand what kind of vehicles are available in your price range and how much auto prices vary from dealer to dealer. The more research you do, the more informed you will be when it comes time to actually pick out a particular make or model.

Because your credit options may be limited, it is important to be realistic when it comes to what kind of car you can afford. Buying a car when you have bad credit is possible, but you should remain open minded about what you're willing to drive as well. Our salespeople can help you find a vehicle from our wide selection that is both affordable and that satisfies your driving tastes.

Money troubles can happen to anyone and bad credit makes it difficult to finance a vehicle. However, you always have options, and knowing what they are before you look at used cars can result in a great deal.