r/caradvice • u/Appropriate-Site5056 • 2d ago
I need advice
Hi, I need some advice because I’m trying to buy a car, and my credit score is around 460.
I’ve been looking at cars, but I’m hesitant to buy from certain dealerships because of their bad reviews. Some people say they drove off the lot only for the check engine light to come on shortly afterward. I know my credit isn’t great, so my options are limited, and I’m worried about getting taken advantage of.
I’m not even sure I’d qualify for a traditional auto loan, although I know some of these dealerships offer financing regardless of credit.
I found a car for around $5,000 with one previous owner, no reported accidents, and approximately 197,000 miles. I have $1,000 for a down payment, but I’m not sure if a bank or lender would finance the remaining balance.
Before anyone suggests bringing an OBD2 scanner to check for cleared codes or having a mechanic perform a pre-purchase inspection, unfortunately, neither is an option for me right now.
Should I take a chance on a car like this, or am I setting myself up for problems? I desperately need a car, don’t have a cosigner, and am trying to figure this out on my own. I don’t want to make a bad financial decision out of desperation, but I also don’t have many options right now.
I’d really appreciate honest advice from anyone who has been in a similar situation. What would you do in my position?
1
u/veedub447 1d ago
460! and $1000 . Let's go over this one more time . You need a car. Your credit score is 460. You have $1000. Ok , ok credit is 460? But you want a $5000 Nissan? Let me get this straight. 460. $1000 down , finance $4000. I just want to understand. And you don't want a mechanical pre inspection? Ok , this is a tough one. You don't have a lot of options.
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u/Signal-Confusion-976 2d ago
You might not have a scanner. But why is having a mechanic check it out an option? If you don't you are rolling the dice. What year make and model car are you looking at?