No one that needs a vehicle should be stuck without one. Even people with bad credit can get a car these days. You can often get one without a down payment, as long as you have a vehicle to trade in as a down payment.

The only problem with financing for bad credit are the higher interest rates. However, if you want to be a vehicle owner you’ll just have to find the best rates you can and work with it. Here are some tips to help you figure out what will work for you, no matter what your credit situation is.

Find A Place That Finances

Start by finding a vehicle dealership that will finance you in your current credit situation. That could mean finding a place that specifically deals with people with bad credit. You may also want to check with normal dealerships first to find out what your chances might be, especially if you’re want to invest in a new car instead of a used one.

You never have to go with the first place you look at. Take some time to investigate the loans that are available to you, how much interest rates are that are being offered, and spend some time test driving vehicles as you look around.

Save Up For A Down Payment

Your down payment can help a great deal when it comes to getting financed. Generally, you want ten to twenty percent down, but having more may increase your chance of getting a loan if you have sketchy past credit. You may also need to have proof of your employment.

Save a little from each paycheck, put tax money toward your car, or maybe even have a yard sale and put your earning toward your down payment. There are plenty of ways to save up money.

Do You Have A Trade-In?

If you have a vehicle that you’re replacing with this new one you could use it for a trade-in. This money will count toward your down payment, but shouldn’t be all you have for a down payment (although in some cases it can be if needed). Many places will give you at least a grand in exchange for a vehicle you can push, pull, or tow in. Although you can get more for a vehicle in better shape.

How Much Car Do You Need?

Before you invest too much money in a full-size truck or van, take stock how much vehicle you really need. Even a full family can often get by with a mini-van. If it’s just you, consider a compact car, unless you do a lot of hauling. Hatchbacks, even on smaller cars, over more packing space as well.