Best Online Auto Loans For Bad Credit
Updated: 1 March, 2025
The high cost of vehicles and the increasing importance of credit scores have led most consumers to opt for financing with an auto loan. Online lenders offer quick and easy approval allowing you to pre-qualify without the hassle of the dealership, even with bad credit. A low credit score or limited history may prevent you from qualifying for certain loans, however, everyone needs transportation and fortunately, online lenders offer special finance options to extend affordable terms to low-score or "subprime" buyers.
Bad Credit Auto Loans 2024 - Compare Online
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Understanding Bad Credit Auto Loans​
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Your credit score, calculated based on your financial history, payment timeliness, and credit usage, is a three-digit number that lenders use to gauge your creditworthiness. Scores usually range from 300 to 850, with a score below 580 typically considered poor or 'bad' credit.
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Bad credit auto loans cater to individuals with subpar credit scores, typically below 580. The terms of these loans often differ from those of standard auto loans, mainly due to the perceived risk associated with borrowers with bad credit. Lenders view these individuals as high risk, meaning they are likely to charge higher interest rates or require larger down payments.
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Bad credit can be the result of any number of financial activities that lenders consider to indicate risk. Most commonly, those who have difficulty financing a vehicle may have late or missed payments on their credit history which can lead to a default on loans. If you have late payments or a default on your credit, you may face limited options when shopping for a car loan. If you repeatedly miss payments or default on an auto loan, you will likely face repossession. Having a repossession on your credit can make it extremely difficult to get approved for your next auto loan, but it is not impossible to find affordable terms after repossession. Finally, and perhaps the most difficult situation is bankruptcy.
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Bad Credit Auto Loans Myths
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Myth: You Can't Get an Auto Loan If You Have Bad Credit
It's a common misconception that having bad credit completely bars you from obtaining an auto loan. In reality, there are many lenders who specialize in providing auto loans to individuals with lower credit scores. These lenders understand that people may have faced financial challenges in the past and work to offer solutions that enable them to purchase a vehicle.
Myth: Bad Credit Interest Rates Are Always Too High
While it’s true that bad credit can lead to higher interest rates, the notion can be misleading. Interest rates vary widely among lenders, and some may offer more competitive rates than others, even to those with less-than-ideal credit. Shopping around and negotiating with lenders will lead you to the most affordable rate.
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Myth: Bad Credit Auto Loans Require a Huge Down Payment
While making a larger down payment can reduce your overall loan amount and possibly qualify you for better loan terms, some lenders may not require a large down payment. There are programs and lenders that specialize in low or no down payment options for individuals with bad credit. However, it’s beneficial to put down as much as you can afford to minimize the amount you'll pay over time.
Myth: An Auto Loan Will Hurt My Credit Score
A common misconception is that taking out an Ohio bad credit auto loan does not affect, or can even hurt, your credit score. In truth, an auto loan can serve as a valuable tool for rebuilding or improving your credit score, provided that you make your payments on time and in full. Regular, timely payments demonstrate responsible credit behavior, which will positively impact your credit score. Lenders report your payment activity to the credit bureaus, so consistent payments rapidly build credit.
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Myth: You’re Locked into Your Loan Terms
Some believe that once you secure an auto loan, especially with bad credit, you’re stuck with those terms until the loan is completely paid off. However, this is not always the case. Borrowers have options like refinancing their auto loan down the line, which can potentially lower their interest rate or offer more favorable terms. Refinancing is commonly pursued by individuals who have improved their credit scores since taking out their original auto loan.
​​Avoiding Scams & Predatory Lenders
Consumers with subprime credit face many potential pitfalls when seeking an auto loan, including scams and predatory lenders. Being vigilant and informed can safeguard you against these financial dangers.
Certain indicators can signal a predatory lender or a scam. These include lenders who pressure you to sign documents without giving you time to read them, those who do not require any documentation of your income or credit history, or lenders who guarantee approval before assessing your application. Such practices are not in your best interest and should prompt caution.
Before committing to any lender, conduct thorough research. Check their reputation through reviews and ratings on trusted financial websites, and verify their credentials with the Better Business Bureau. Gathering as much information as possible can help you make an informed decision.
If you're uncertain about a potential lender or loan offer, seeking professional financial advice can be invaluable. Financial advisors or credit counselors can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation, helping you to avoid scams and make decisions that support your long-term financial health.
How Much Can I Get Approved For?
Our Loan Estimator tool is designed to assist you in estimating your chances of getting approved for a car loan. By inputting various factors such as your credit score, income, and desired loan amount, our Loan Estimator calculates the likelihood of approval based on historical data and lending criteria. It provides you with valuable insights and helps you make informed decisions before applying for a car loan. Our goal is to empower you with the knowledge you need to navigate the car financing process successfully. Learn more with our auto loan approval estimator.
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