Bad Credit Car Finance

An outline of a car

How Car Finance for Bad Credit Works

At Autodosh, we understand that financial difficulties can happen to anyone, and that not everyone has a perfect credit history. That’s why we work with a panel of car finance lenders, including those who may consider applications from people with poor credit.

Why Choose Autodosh for Car Finance if You Have Bad Credit

Our service is designed to give you access to a range of potential finance options, including car finance with no deposit and car finance with bad credit history. We value transparency, giving you fair access to car finance options that are suitable for your circumstances. Here's why we stand out:

Here’s why we stand out:

  1. Range of lenders
    Our panel of trusted lenders consider applications from customers with a bad credit history. This can potentially increase your chances of approval for a loan that matches your specific needs.
  2. Individual solutions
    Our lenders review applications on more than just your credit score. Factors like your income and loan affordability are also taken into account. Even if you've faced CCJs, IVAs, mortgage arrears, or missed payments, we'll explore options that suit your situation.
  3. Responsible checks
    Our lenders use a soft credit check at the start, meaning your credit file will not be affected at this stage. A hard credit search will only take place once you are ready to proceed with a specific lender.

What is Bad Credit Car Finance?

Bad credit car finance is an option for people who may have experienced financial difficulties in the past. This includes things like missed payments, defaults of CCJs. These events may lower your credit score, which potential lenders use to assess how much of a risk is involved in offering finance.

In the UK, lenders typically check your credit file using one of the three main credit reference agencies: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. Each of these agencies holds financial information on every adult in the UK. The agencies will then assign a score that reflects how reliable you may appear to a lender.

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Types of Car Finance for Bad Credit

Several different types of car finance may be available to those with poor credit history. Each option has different features, and the right choice depends on your own individual circumstances. Whether you need finance with no deposit or prefer to spread payments with PCP or HP options, our panel of car finance lenders can explain your options.

Some types of car finance:

  • Hire Purchase (HP):
    You pay monthly instalments until the cost of the car (plus interest) is covered. You will own the car at the end of the agreement.
  • Personal Contract Purchase (PCP):
    Similar to HP, but you will pay one larger final payment if you want to keep the car. You can also return the car at the end or part-exchange it.
  • Personal Loan:
    A personal car loan can be used to buy the car outright. You will then repay in monthly instalments over time.

What is a Credit Score?

A credit score is the number given by the credit reference agencies that summarises your financial history and borrowing behaviour. Each agency has its own scoring range, so the number you receive may be different depending on which one is used. Generally, a good credit score means that you have handled money responsibly previously and may make you more appealing to lenders.

Your score can be impacted by several things, including:

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    How much available credit you are using

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    Whether you pay your bills on time

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    The length of your credit history

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    Whether you are on the electoral roll

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    Past financial difficulties

How Do I Know if I Have Bad Credit?

If you are unsure about your credit score, you can check through one of the credit reference agencies. Some banks also offer free access to credit reports. These reports can be useful to access as they can help you to see what might be impacting your score and whether there are any errors you could correct.

There is no universal bad credit score, as each agency has different score ranges. A bad or poor credit score will typically fall within a certain range.

Equifax: 0-438
Experian: 0-720
TransUnion: 0-565

If your score falls within the poor credit range, it may be harder to access mainstream car finance options. However, you may still be eligible to apply for bad credit car finance with one of our specialist lenders.

Improving Your Bad Credit Score

If you currently have a bad credit score, there are a few ways you can improve it over time. While this may not change your score overnight, consistent good habits can make a big difference:

  • Make payments on time
  • Only use part of your available credit
  • Avoid multiple applications
  • Register on the electoral roll
  • Check for errors

Improving your credit score is not guaranteed to improve your financial options. Car finance is always subject to status and affordability checks. The rate you are offered will depend on your individual profile and lender assessment.

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New car owner with keys

Apply For Car Finance with Bad Credit

If you are looking for car finance with bad credit history, no deposit, or other options, Autodosh may be able to help. We provide access to a wide network of lenders and financial services that may consider applicants with a less-than-perfect credit profile.

We may be able to help you find a car finance agreement that fits your budget and personal circumstances. There is no obligation to proceed, and you will be able to review any offer before proceeding.

Start your application today and see whether there is a bad credit car finance option available for you.

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Apply now Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 24.9%. Autodosh is a credit broker, not a lender.