Bad Credit Car Finance

At ChooseMyCar, we work with trusted UK lenders to provide car finance for bad credit that puts you back in the driving seat. If you’ve struggled to get approved before, our friendly and dedicated team can help secure a deal that works for you. See how simple getting car finance with bad credit can be. Start your journey today and apply now!

  • Trusted Lenders from Across the UK

  • Save Money on Your Next Car

  • Ranked #1 out of 102 Car Finance companies*

Audi A1
Bmw 1-series

Apply For Bad Credit Car Finance Today

Bad credit car finance doesn’t have to be difficult. We make it quick and easy, helping you compare options, find your car, and secure the finance you need with confidence.

We’re rated Excellent Trustpilot
4.9 out of 5 with 4332 Reviews

What is Bad Credit Car Finance?

Bad credit car finance is a specialised type of auto financing designed for individuals with poor credit histories or low credit scores. It allows people who might otherwise struggle to secure traditional car financing to purchase a vehicle.

It offers a practical route into car finance, with lenders who look at your full financial picture: not just your credit score.

Want to learn more? Watch our short video guide below for a simple breakdown of how bad credit car finance works and what to expect.

Watch our Detailed Guide on Bad Credit Car Finance

Video Transcript:

A Quick Guide to Bad Credit Car Finance

Introduction

Don't despair if you've been refused a loan because of bad credit. With Choose My Car, you can still get a car that fits your life and your budget quickly and easily with our financing options.

Bad Credit Car Finance

Our bad credit car finance lenders specialize in products for people who have a poor credit history or a low credit score. They focus on your current financial situation and ability to pay while acknowledging past factors that may have affected your credit score.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Lender

When selecting a lender for bad credit car finance, there are five main factors to consider:

1. Interest Rates

Bad credit car finance can come with higher interest rates, leading to higher overall costs. It's crucial to compare lenders to ensure you're getting the best possible rate.

2. Upfront Deposit

You might be wondering, "Do I need a deposit?" The answer is no—most lenders will fund up to 100% of the car's cost. However, putting down a deposit can offer benefits such as:

  • Lower monthly payments
  • Better chances of loan acceptance
  • More financing options
3. Loan Terms

Check the length of the loan agreement and be aware of any early repayment fees that may apply.

4. Total Cost

Ensure you understand the total cost of the loan, including interest and any additional fees.

5. Repayment Options

Make sure the monthly payments fit within your budget. Failure to make payments could result in your car being repossessed and further damage to your credit score.

Vehicle Requirements

In addition to being financially prepared, you'll need to ensure the car you're purchasing meets the lender's minimum requirements:

  • The car must have less than 120,000 miles.
  • The car must be no older than 15 years by the end of the agreement.
  • The price of the car should be at least £3,000.
  • The car must be purchased through a reputable and approved dealership.
How Choose My Car Can Help

Choose My Car can help you secure the right lender and car for your financial circumstances. We're fully authorized by the Financial Conduct Authority and certified by specialist automotive finance organizations, so you can rest assured you're in safe hands.

We compare options from over 17 specially selected car finance companies that we know are reputable. This helps you make the best decisions and find competitive rates, allowing you to get back in the driving seat regardless of your credit score.

Conclusion

Why not apply today? The process is quick and simple. If you have any burning questions, our expert team is on hand and happy to help.

Choose My Car—Click. Save. Drive.

Where Car Finance for Bad Credit Can Help

Having a poor credit score shouldn’t mean the end of the road when it comes to getting a car. Our car finance poor credit score options are designed to support people in many different circumstances, from those who’ve had financial setbacks to those who simply haven’t had the chance to build their credit yet. Whatever your background, we take the time to understand your situation and match you with a lender who can help. Here are some of the ways we make car finance possible when others can’t.

  • Refused Car Finance by Lenders

    Being turned down for car finance because of bad credit can feel discouraging, but it doesn’t have to be the end of the road. We work with lenders who take a more flexible approach, giving you another chance to get approved.

  • Car Finance with no Credit History

    If you’ve never borrowed before, having little or no credit history can be just as tricky as having bad credit. We partner with lenders who understand this and can support car buyers in finding the right deal.

  • Missed Payments or Defaults

    Everyone goes through tough times, and missed payments don’t have to define your future. Many of our lenders are open to working with drivers who’ve had financial setbacks but want a fresh start.

  • Essential for work and family

    For many people, a car is more of a necessity than a luxury. Whether it’s getting to work, managing family life, or keeping up with daily responsibilities, we’re here to make sure bad credit doesn’t stop you.

  • Alternative to Personal Loans

    High-interest payday loans and short-term credit can be stressful and expensive. Our bad credit car finance options are a more practical and affordable way to get the car you need without resorting to extortionate borrowing.

  • Rebuild Your Credit Score

    Bad credit car finance isn’t just about getting a car-  it can also be a chance to improve your financial future. Making regular, manageable payments can help rebuild your credit over time.

Finance Your Next Car Today!

Discover your next car and get the finance sorted today- it’s quick, easy, and all in one place!

  • Home Delivery
  • Affordable Finance Deals
  • Zero Deposit
  • Bad Credit Car Finance
Enquire Now
Nick Zapolski
Nick Zapolski Founder & CEO
Many people assume bad credit means you can’t get approved for car finance, but that’s not the case. Specialist lenders are often more flexible, looking at your overall affordability rather than just your credit score. Even if your history isn’t perfect, you still have options- the key is choosing a plan you can realistically afford to repay, which can become a valuable stepping stone towards rebuilding your credit profile over time.

Bad Credit Car Finance Calculator – Estimate Your Monthly Payments in Seconds

Our calculator for bad credit car finance is designed to make things simple. Just choose the loan amount, pick the repayment term, and select your credit score range. In seconds, you’ll see an estimate of your monthly repayments and can adjust the details to match your budget. This quick tool is a hassle-free way to take the first step towards easy car finance with bad credit.t

HP monthly payments

£10,000.00

48 months

Estimated Monthly Budget

£290

Total Cost of Credit

£22,258

Optional Final Payment

£0

Why ChooseMyCar for Bad Credit Car Finance?

Car finance should be straightforward and accessible, no matter your credit history – and that’s exactly what we set out to deliver at ChooseMyCar. As a fully FCA-authorised credit broker (Firm Reference Number 802631), we specialise in helping drivers secure bad credit car finance UK solutions that suit their individual circumstances. By working with a wide range of reputable lenders, we can give you more choice and a fairer chance of approval. Backed by industry accreditations and outstanding customer feedback, we’re here to provide a service you can rely on from start to finish.

  • SAF Approved automotive finance specialists

  • FCA Authorised & Regulated

  • 20+ carefully selected lending partners

  • High approval rates for drivers with bad credit

  • No upfront fees or hidden charges

  • Same-day pay-outs once approved

We’re rated Excellent on Trustpilot

4.9 out of 5 on 4332 Reviews

The Best Car Finance Options for Bad Credit

When it comes to bad credit car finance, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Different types of finance agreements are available, each designed to suit different budgets and circumstances. Whether you want to own the car outright or prefer the flexibility of upgrading in the future, there are plenty of choices that make it possible to purchase a vehicle with a poor credit score. Check out the main types of bad credit car finance below and discover how they work.

Hire Purchase Bad Credit Car Finance (HP)

Hire Purchase is one of the most straightforward forms of car finance. The full cost of the vehicle is divided into equal monthly payments across the length of your agreement. Once you have made the final payment plus a small transfer fee (sometimes as low as £1) you will own the car outright.t

  • Spread the full cost of the car over the term
  • Fixed monthly payments for easier budgeting
  • No large balloon payment at the end
  • Own the car once the agreement is complete

Conditional Sale Bad Credit Car Finance (CS)

Conditional Sale works in a similar way to Hire Purchase but with one key difference. You automatically become the legal owner once the final payment is made, with no transfer fee required. Payments are fixed across the agreement, giving you certainty and full use of the vehicle throughout.

  • Automatic ownership after final payment
  • No option to purchase fee
  • Fixed interest rates and monthly payments
  • Full use of the vehicle throughout the agreement

No Deposit & No Guarantor Bad Credit Car Finance

If you’re worried that a lack of savings or not having someone to back your application will hold you back, there are still plenty of other solutions available. Car finance for bad credit with no deposit allows you to fund a car without paying anything upfront, while car finance for bad credit no guarantor means you can apply without needing anyone else to guarantee your repayments. These options are brilliant for drivers who want a straightforward, independent way of securing finance. Get in touch with our friendly team to find out more.

What Is the Real Cost of Bad Credit Car Finance

One of the biggest worries people have about bad credit car finance is the cost. Higher APR rates can sound intimidating, and it is easy to assume repayments will be out of reach. The reality is often very different. When you compare monthly payments side by side, the difference between car finance with poor credit and standard finance can be much smaller than expected. Take a look at the example below to see how manageable the costs can be

*Borrowing a total of £17,500.00 at an APR of 9.90% will cost £370.96 / month

Reputable bad credit car finance specialists

At ChooseMyCar, we’re not just a trusted car buying service in the UK, but also your reliable ally in securing bad credit car finance. Fully authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority and SAF approved, our proficient team is committed to empowering individuals with bad credit through tailored financial solutions. We compare options from over 17 different secured car finance companies, ensuring you make informed decisions and find competitive rates to get back on the road with confidence.

Our top 5 bad credit car finance lenders

Advantage Finance Moneybarn AutoMoney Billing Finance First Response
Lender Advantage Finance Moneybarn AutoMoney Billing Finance First Response
Product Type Hire Purchase Conditional Sale Hire Purchase Hire Purchase Hire Purchase
Age Min-Max 22-67yrs old 21-75yrs old 18-70yrs old 18-80yrs old 21-90yrs old
Benefit Only Income No Yes No Yes Yes
Joint Hirer Yes Yes Yes No No
Provisional License No Yes No Yes Yes capped at £6,000
Self-employed No Yes No No Yes
Gross Min Salary £1400 pcm £1000 pcm £900 pcm £1242 pcm £1200 pcm
Loan Value Min-Max £2,000 - £20,000 £4,000 - £35,000 £4,000 - £25,000 £2,000 - £25,000 £2,000 - £15,000
Max Age of Vehicle at end of term 15yrs 15yrs 14yrs 15yrs 19yrs
Zero Deposits Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

How to Improve Your Chances of Bad Credit Car Finance Approval

Car finance approval is not just about having a perfect credit score. What matters just as much is showing that you can comfortably keep up with the repayments and that you are prepared for the responsibility of borrowing. By putting in some preparation and making small adjustments you can make a stronger case to lenders. The tips below highlight some of the most effective ways to do this and it can help you even if you’re looking for car finance with really bad credit.t

  1. Save For A Deposit

    Putting down even a small deposit shows commitment and reduces how much you need to borrow, making approval more likely. ownership.

  2. Prepare Your Documents

    Having proof of income, ID and address ready makes the process smoother and shows lenders you are organised.

  3. Check Affordability

    Choose a loan term and amount that fits your budget. Lenders want to see that repayments will be realistic.

  4. Pick The Right Car

    Opting for a more affordable car lowers the lender’s risk and improves your chances of getting approved.

  5. Improve Your Credit Profile

    Small steps like registering on the electoral roll or paying bills on time can help. For more guidance, visit MoneyHelper.

Success Stories 

Buying a used car on finance is simple and straightforward. Just follow the three easy steps below to get started and drive away in your next car with confidence.

Very helpful…

talked me through everything and was so helpful and understood I was on holiday, so didn’t inundate me with phone calls.

Sarah

Everything was just made so easy…

from applying for finance, choosing the car and taking delivery of it!

Sandra

Friendly, efficient and professional…

A special mention to Jagoda who was exceptional, a true asset to your company.

Simon
Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. While your Credit Score is important for Lenders when they decide on your eligibility, it doesn’t dictate it. While a good Credit Score could get you a better deal, specialist Lenders and Finance Arrangements (like Guarantor Loans or Joint Purchase) can get you behind the wheel even if you have very poor credit. You just need to talk to the right Lender. Find out how low scores affect car finance?

It’s possible, and easier than many people think- especially if you work with a broker that specialises in bad credit car finance.

While having a poor credit score can limit your options, many UK lenders now offer finance specifically designed for people with a history of missed payments, defaults, or low scores. They’ll assess more than just your credit file, including income, outgoings, and overall affordability.

At ChooseMyCar, we work with a wide panel of trusted bad credit lenders across the UK, making it easier to find a deal that suits your circumstances. We guide you through the process, help with paperwork, and offer no-obligation quotes so you can see your options clearly before committing.

You can get bad credit car finance through specialist brokers, lenders, or car dealerships that work with subprime finance providers.

At ChooseMyCar, we partner with a network of FCA-approved lenders who specialise in bad credit car finance. Whether you’ve had CCJs, defaults, or have never borrowed before, we can help match you with a finance option that works for your budget and lifestyle: often with no deposit required.

Rather than applying to multiple lenders yourself (which can hurt your credit score), our team does the hard work for you. We’ll search for a suitable deal and explain everything clearly, so you know what to expect from the start.

Applying for bad credit car finance can have a small impact on your credit score, but it doesn’t have to be negative if managed properly.

When you apply, lenders usually perform a credit check, which can be either a ‘soft’ or ‘hard’ search. A soft search doesn’t affect your credit score and can be used to get an initial idea of your eligibility. A hard search is recorded on your credit file and might cause a slight, temporary dip in your score.

If you make your repayments on time and stick to the finance agreement, this positive payment history can actually help improve your credit rating over time. On the other hand, missed or late payments can damage your credit score further.

At ChooseMyCar, we use soft searches initially to minimise impact and only proceed with hard searches once you’re confident about moving forward. We also offer advice on managing your credit responsibly to support your long-term financial health.

Yes, you can get car finance with a 500 credit score. Many lenders offer finance options for people with low credit scores by looking at your full financial situation, not just the number itself.

Although your credit score might influence the interest rate offered, there are specialist lenders who work with customers in this range to help you get a manageable deal. It’s important to ensure repayments fit comfortably within your budget. You can learn more about Hire Purchase (HP) financing, which is popular for bad credit, on our HP page. For general credit advice, follow our guide to improving your credit score or MoneyHelper offers excellent guidance on improving your credit health.

Yes, it’s still possible to get car finance with a credit score of 200. Some lenders specialise in working with people who have poor or very limited credit histories and will consider factors beyond just your score: like your income, regular expenses, and employment status.

Although a 200 score is on the lower end of the scale, it doesn’t automatically mean rejection. Many lenders focus on affordability; if you can show that you can manage monthly repayments comfortably, you could still be approved. Working with a broker that partners with a broad panel of trusted bad credit lenders (like we do at ChooseMyCar) can help connect you with the right finance option for your circumstances.

You may have fewer choices and need to meet additional criteria, but support is available. It’s also a good idea to check your credit report for any mistakes or areas you can improve. You can do this for free with services like Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion.

Yes, you can finance a brand new car with bad credit. The process is very similar to financing a used car, but keep in mind that new cars usually come with higher purchase prices and monthly repayments- so used car financing may be a better option.

If you can demonstrate that you can afford the deposit and monthly payments, lenders will consider your application. You might want to explore financing options such as Hire Purchase (HP) and Personal Contract Purchase (PCP). For insight into how much you could afford to pay, check out our helpful car finance calculator.

To apply for bad credit car finance you’ll need identification, proof of income, and in some cases, access to your bank data.

Lenders use this information to assess your affordability and verify your identity, which helps them make a responsible lending decision. Having these documents ready can speed up the application and approval process:

  • Valid UK driving licence – This can be either a full or provisional licence and is used to confirm your identity and eligibility to drive.
  • Proof of income – If your income can’t be verified digitally (e.g. via open banking), most lenders will ask for your last 2 to 3 months of payslips or bank statements. If you’re self-employed, tax returns or SA302 forms from HMRC may be needed.
  • Open banking access – Some lenders may request this to better understand your income, spending habits, and financial commitments, especially if there are recent applications for credit or gambling markers on your file. This process is secure and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
  • Proof of address – This essential documents list may help but typically you will need a recent utility bill, council tax letter or bank statement dated within the last three months.
  • Credit history overview – While there’s no fixed minimum score, lenders will often review your current credit report and score to help them assess your financial background and risk level. You can check yours for free with Experian, Equifax or TransUnion.

Don’t worry if you’re not sure what’s needed: ChooseMyCar will guide you every step of the way, helping you gather the right information and making the entire process as simple and stress-free as possible.

Many customers are able to find and finance a car within just a few days, even with a poor credit history.

The timeframe depends on factors like your credit profile, the lender you’re matched with, and how quickly you provide the required documents. That said, ChooseMyCar helps make the process quicker by handling most of the paperwork, managing communication with lenders, and guiding you through what’s needed at each step.

Before you even apply, it’s a good idea to start browsing available vehicles. On our site, you can explore a wide range of fantastic options: from nearly-new hatchbacks and reliable used family cars to premium SUVs and luxury saloons. Once you’ve found something that suits your lifestyle and budget, we can match you with a lender who fits your situation.

We’ll keep you informed throughout the process and work to get you behind the wheel as soon as possible.

In most cases, yes- you’ll need to provide payslips or another form of income proof when applying for bad credit car finance.

Lenders usually ask for 2 to 3 months of recent payslips to confirm your income, employment status, and affordability. This is especially important for applicants with poor credit, as lenders want to ensure that you can comfortably manage your monthly repayments despite your credit history.

If you don’t have physical payslips, many lenders will also accept digital versions or recent bank statements showing regular income. Some lenders may offer open banking as an alternative, allowing secure, temporary access to view your income and spending directly- speeding up the verification process.

At ChooseMyCar, we’ll let you know exactly what each lender needs and help you prepare the right documents upfront. This makes the process smoother and increases your chances of a quick approval. Whether you’re employed, self-employed, or receive income in another way, we’ll work with our panel of trusted lenders to find the most suitable option for your situation.

Yes, a larger deposit can make it easier to get approved and reduce your monthly payments.

Putting down a bigger deposit reduces the total amount you need to borrow, which not only makes your monthly repayments more affordable but can also lower the overall interest you pay across the agreement. It’s also viewed positively by lenders, as it shows that you’ve been able to save and are financially responsible: something that’s especially helpful if you have a poor or limited credit history.

However, if saving a large deposit isn’t possible right now, ChooseMyCar also works with lenders who offer no-deposit car finance options, helping you get behind the wheel without needing upfront cash. Whatever your financial situation, we’ll help find a car finance solution that works for you.

No. Car finance agreements must be in the name of the person who will legally own and drive the vehicle.

Even if you’re trying to help a friend or family member with poor credit, the finance contract must be taken out by the actual borrower, and payments must be made from their bank account. This is a legal requirement to prevent fraud and ensure lenders can carry out proper affordability checks.

However, there are still ways to support someone through the process. Some lenders offer joint applications, where you apply together and your stronger credit history may improve their chances of approval. You could also act as a guarantor, agreeing to step in and make payments if they’re unable to.

At ChooseMyCar, we work with lenders who specialise in bad credit car finance, including options for joint applications and guarantor loans. We’ll explain which approach is best for your situation and help guide you both through the process smoothly.

Yes, it’s still possible to get car finance even if you’ve had a CCJ or default in the past.

Many specialist lenders in the UK offer finance options specifically for people with a poor credit history, including County Court Judgements (CCJs), defaults, or missed payments. These lenders focus more on your current affordability, employment status, and ability to make repayments now, rather than solely judging your past credit issues.

Approval rates are often higher when applying through a highly-rated broker like ChooseMyCar who works closely with a wide range of trusted lenders. You’ll have a better chance of finding a deal that suits your budget and circumstances even with serious credit issues on your file.

If you’ve had a CCJ or default and are unsure where to start, contact us today for free help and guidance through the process.