How Can I Get Car Financing with a Bad Credit Score?

Are you putting off shopping for a new car because you worry that a bad credit score (or no credit at all) will automatically disqualify you for a loan? Actually, a new vehicle in St. Augustine is within reach — even if past financial trouble has damaged your credit. While it’s true that getting approved will be more difficult, you can learn how to get a car loan with bad credit in a few simple steps!

Read the guide below from the finance center at Hodges Mazda to find out how. Then, browse our pre-owned and new Mazda inventory to find the perfect vehicle for you.

How to Get a Car Loan With Bad Credit

Getting approved for financing isn’t quite so daunting once you’re ready to learn how! To get a car with bad credit, your first step should be to explore your buying options in Orange Park. Get started by applying for pre-approval online. Next, consult with the finance experts at Hodges Mazda so that we can help you build a customized payment plan.

What Steps Should I Take To Get A Car Loan With Bad Credit?

There’s a lot you can do to improve your chances of approval. After determining your budget, follow these steps for how to get a car with bad credit before you apply for financing at a dealership near Lakeside:

• Prepare to put down a larger down payment than average. This will help to assure lenders that you have the means to make your loan payments on time each month.
• Take steps to improve your credit score. Start by paying off any debts more than 5 years old and getting your credit usage to less than 30% of your available credit.
• Select a vehicle that’s within your budget and leaves some wiggle room.
• Explore pre-owned models or lease deals.

For more tips about car financing, including guaranteed car financing, visit Hodges Mazda.

Improve Your Credit Score

Learning how to get a car with bad credit now bodes well for your future credit score. If you’re confident that you can make every payment on time, taking out a car loan is actually a fantastic way to raise your credit score — fast. Successfully paying off your loan will make it much easier to get approved for a loan when you purchase your next vehicle. Not only that, but you’ll also enjoy lower interest rates on your loans and credit cards.

Finance With Hodges Mazda No Matter Your Credit Score

We hope you feel more confident about how to get a car loan with bad credit in Jacksonville, but don’t hesitate to contact our friendly auto finance team if you have further questions! There are lots of ways to save at Hodges Mazda. Just for a start, you can opt for a pre-owned model and take advantage of our finance specials. Then, use our payment calculator to see which models fit your budget. Contact us today to get started!