Financing with Bad Credit
From the moment we opened in 1948 in Bowling Green, KY, until today, Leachman Buick GMC has always been seen as the family-first-and-always dealership. For over 75 years, we’ve continually gone above and beyond to help all customers secure the vehicle of their dreams. As the go-to Buick, GMC, and Cadillac dealership, we continue to find new and innovative ways to help customers get the vehicle they’ve always wanted despite their less-than-stellar credit ratings.
At Leachman Buick GMC, we know how hard times have become. Everywhere you look, things are becoming far too expensive. It can make meeting bills and keeping things working extremely difficult. That’s why we believe bad credit shouldn't prevent you from driving a safe, reliable vehicle.
Understanding Your Financing Options
There are essentially three financing avenues available:
First, you can finance the purchase of a vehicle with a loan from a bank, credit union, or other financial institution. If your credit is good, then you’ll likely be able to secure a loan with a reasonable interest rate from a bank or credit union. For lower credit ratings, a second or third-tier lender might be needed.
Second, you can pursue manufacturer financing through GM Financial or Cadillac Financial. This is available to qualified buyers. Our dealership would manage that process for you. We work with GM Financial or Cadillac Financial to ensure all the documentation is complete. Once you are approved, we set up your monthly payments.
Third, you can pursue dealership financing. This is where our finance department uses its established network of banks, credit unions, and other lending institutions to find financing that fits your current situation. Our network of lenders ensures you have as many financing options as possible.
- Banks and Credit Unions
- Manufacturer Financing
- Dealership Financing
Can You Finance with Bad Credit?
Yes, you can finance the purchase of a vehicle with bad credit. Not all of your options will be limited to banks and credit unions. Other lenders value more than just your credit score. They may place greater emphasis on the fact that you have a job and income rather than how high your credit rating is.
We have numerous, long-standing relationships with national lenders. We know what they value and what is needed to help someone with lower credit secure financing with one of these lenders.
How Does Leachman Buick GMC Help Buyers with Bad Credit?
There are several ways our finance team can help. First, we customize your financial options and financial solutions. We tailor them to your current financial situation and help put the odds of approval in your favor.
Second, we have programs that can get you the vehicle you want while helping you rebuild your credit rating. Over time, as your payments become more consistent, your credit rating can improve.
Third, we are proud of our ability to offer financial solutions for customers who have been declined elsewhere. If you’ve been declined by another dealership, we can help.
Finally, our online credit application can be done before you come into the dealership, ensuring you have everything lined up with our finance team once you arrive.
Solutions for Bad Credit
For some customers, the thought of applying for credit when they know their credit score is lower than they would like can be overwhelming. We understand. However, some simple solutions can help.
- Increase the Down Payment: By increasing the amount of your down payment for the vehicle, you’re reducing the remaining amount of the loan. That means that the lender assumes less risk. So, while you may have been refused for one loan, by increasing the amount of the down payment, you could qualify for the lower loan amount. In addition, in the eyes of the lender, you’re less likely to default if you put down a larger down payment.
- Have a Co-Signer: Having a family member, partner, or friend sign as a co-signer can dramatically increase your odds of approval, especially if that co-signer has a good credit rating. For lenders, a co-signer means less risk of defaulting on the loan. It’s a security blanket they value and one that could help you get approved.
Take the Next Step with Leachman Buick GMC Today
At Leachman Buick GMC, we know that every situation is unique. We know that in today’s economy, having a bad credit score is no longer the exception to the rule. That’s why our team works so hard to help customers secure the vehicle of their dreams no matter how low their credit score is. Don’t make the all-too-common mistake of assuming that bad credit means you can’t purchase a vehicle. Take the time to complete the online credit application or contact us now.
Ready to Get Started?
Get in touch with our financing specialists today or apply online to explore your options!