Poor credit doesn’t mean you’re doomed to walking to Bunnings; it just means car finance needs a bit more strategy.
Expect higher interest and tighter hoops, so a bigger deposit and a sensible, shorter term can keep costs sane.
Compare lenders by the comparison rate (not just the headline rate), and watch for fees, add‑ons and early‑payout penalties.
A secured loan on a modest, reliable used car often prices better than a flashy new one, and dealer finance isn’t always the bargain it pretends to be.
Check your credit file, fix any errors, and stack a few months of on‑time bills to nudge your score before applying if you can.
If you need wheels now, get pre‑approval from a mainstream lender or reputable broker, and give “no credit check” outfits a wide berth—they’re the financial equivalent of a dodgy kebab at 2am.
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