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Let’s be real — someone probably told you that if you’ve had a car repossessed or have collections on your credit, your only shot at getting another vehicle is a buy here pay here or tote-the-note lot with high interest rates.
That’s simply not true.

You can get approved at big-name dealerships — Chevrolet, Kia, Mercedes, Honda — even if your credit isn’t perfect.

I used to sell cars. I’ve seen people drive off the lot with 400, 500, and 600 credit scores — with and without cosigners — in both new and used vehicles.

What You REALLY Need to Get Approved

Here’s the truth: approval isn’t just about your credit score — it’s about your overall stability, documentation, and ability to repay.

Your credit score and history do play a role because they show lenders your payment behavior. Banks want to know:

• Can they trust you to pay them back?

• How soon are you likely to repay the loan?

• Are you worth the risk?

That’s why interest rates are based on what I call your credit resume.
The better your resume (credit score, payment history, debt-to-income ratio), the lower your interest rate — and vice versa. If your report shows missed payments, repossessions, or collections, expect the bank to charge a higher rate to protect themselves.

But keep this in mind in 2025:

Even people with 800 credit scores and perfect payment history are facing high interest rates right now.
Why? Because of the economy — the housing market is high, and so is the auto market. The cost of borrowing is up across the board, not just for people with damaged credit.

So don’t get discouraged. Focus on what you can control:

• Your income

• Your documents

• Your down payment

• And your preparation

These are the real keys to walking out with the car you need.

1. Stable Income + Proof

• You need to be working at least 3 months on your current job.

• Bring your last 3 months of paystubs and bank statements (ALL pages — not just the summary).

2. Money Down

• You’ll need some cash to put down. $1,000 or more is a solid start.

• If you don’t have cash, a trade-in with positive equity and a clean title can also help.

3. A Cosigner (Optional but Helpful)

• A cosigner does not need perfect credit.

• They need a state ID or driver’s license and proof of income.

• Make a list of 3–5 people who could help. Don’t wait until the dealership tells you you need one — have that part ready in advance.

4. Proof of Residency

• Bring two recent bills (light bill, credit card bill, Wi-Fi, etc.) dated within the last 30 days.

• This is a must in Tennessee to get your tag registered.

Valid Insurance Is a Must

Bring the declaration page of your policy — it includes your name, address, and full coverage details.

Don’t apply for car insurance last minute without a driver’s license — it can cost you up to a $700–$1,000+ deposit just to get started.

Form of Payment

• Most dealerships do not accept personal checks.

• You’ll need a cashier’s check or debit card.

• Do not write out the check until you're in the finance office and know the exact amount.

• Also, be aware that some dealerships don’t accept credit cards as a form of down payment either.
  I once worked at a dealership that didn’t accept a debt to pay a debt.

Call ahead and ask the Finance Manager what forms of payment are accepted so you’re not caught off guard.

Don’t Try to Fake It

If you’re tempted to submit fake paystubs — don’t.

Banks use software and direct verification to confirm your income.
They may call your job, check for direct deposit patterns, and cross-reference your documents.

If you're caught, you could be flagged by the bank — possibly for life.
It’s not worth the risk.

What If You’re on Disability or SSI?

If you receive Social Security or Disability Income, bring:

• Your award letter

• The last 3 months of bank statements showing your direct deposits

Final Advice

You don’t need a perfect score.
You just need to be prepared, have proof, and walk in confidently like you belong there — because you do.

Still Have Questions?

I’m here to help. Whether you're trying to rebuild your credit, understand your buying power, or just need step-by-step help…

Email me anytime:
[email protected]

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Written by Kyterria Ivory
Creator of The Credit Repair Ministry. Former Car Sales Pro turned Credit Mentor, helping everyday people fix their credit and level up their life.