The first thing to do when trying to secure a car loan when you have bad credit is to be honest. It is very important to tell dealers up front that you have bad credit. Also make it clear that you do want multiple credit inquires. When companies access your credit report it causes a drop in your credit score.

By having too many requests your credit could be damaged further, making it harder for you to get a car loan. If you are honest with dealers up front this should avoid too many inquires as they will only go through lenders that are open to bad credit lending.

The next thing you should do is have all your documentation ready. It is likely the bank will want all financial information from you about your income sources. You should have tax returns for the previous year, especially if you are self employed.

You should have two months worth of pay stubs. Try to have as much documentation as possible since this will show the bank you can afford the loan.

You also have to be reasonable. If you are wanting to buy a car with bad credit then it is highly unlikely you will be able to get anything brand new. You should look at something at least five years old. This way the cost will be cheaper and the loan smaller, so the bank will be more likely to approve the loan.

It helps to shop around, but as mentioned, do not let your credit report get checked too many times. Shop around and talk with dealers about whether they can help someone with bad credit.

This helps to know your credit score so you can be upfront and tell them exactly how bad your credit is. This way they should be able to say whether they can help or not. Additionally, shopping around helps because you will have more options in vehicles and prices.

Be prepared with a good down payment. If you have a trade in that helps, but you should also have a nice chunk of money to put down as well. Banks like to see borrowers put up some of their own cash towards the purchase.

Getting a car loan with bad credit is not going to be easy. You have to work a little harder then someone who has good credit. In the end, though, you should be able to find a loan.

You may not be able to get the car you wanted and you may have to settle for what you can get, but once you finish paying the loan you will have improved your credit and be very likely to be able to secure a different car loan with your good credit.