Will applying for car finance affect my credit score?

An initial eligibility check with Presto is usually a soft search, which does not affect your credit score. A hard search, which can affect it, is only run with your permission if you decide to proceed.

Can I be guaranteed car finance?

No. No responsible lender can guarantee acceptance. Any firm advertising guaranteed car finance should be treated with caution. Approval always depends on status, affordability and the lender criteria.

Car Finance with Bad Credit

Q: Can I get car finance with bad credit?

Often, yes. Finance is available to many people with poor credit histories, though you may be offered a higher rate and approval is never guaranteed. Lenders assess affordability and your individual circumstances, not just your credit score.

Updated August 2026 · 7 min read · By MotifyMe®

A poor credit history does not automatically rule out car finance. Many lenders will consider applicants who have had credit problems in the past, though you may be offered a higher rate, and approval is never guaranteed. What matters most is affordability, whether the repayments comfortably fit your budget, and a soft-search check lets you look into your options without affecting your credit score. Here is how bad-credit car finance works, and how to give yourself the best chance.

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What bad credit actually means

"Bad credit" is a broad label. It can mean missed or late payments, defaults, a County Court Judgment (CCJ), or simply a thin credit file because you have not borrowed much before. Lenders do not just read a single score - they look at the full picture, and above all at affordability: whether the repayments comfortably fit your income and outgoings.

Can you still get car finance?

Often, yes. A number of lenders consider applicants who have had credit problems, and Presto works with a panel that includes lenders used to a range of circumstances. Two things are worth being clear about: the rate you are offered may be higher than for someone with a strong credit history, and approval is never guaranteed - it always depends on status, affordability and the lender's own criteria.

Be wary of "guaranteed car finance". No responsible lender can guarantee acceptance regardless of your circumstances. Any advertising that promises guaranteed approval should be treated with real caution.

How to give yourself the best chance

Borrow within your budget - apply for an amount whose monthly payment sits comfortably in your finances, not the maximum.
Put down a deposit if you can - it reduces how much you borrow and can strengthen your application.
Check your credit file first - correct any errors before you apply.
Be accurate - give correct income and outgoings; lenders verify, and mistakes cause delays or declines.
Avoid lots of applications at once - several hard searches in a short time can lower your score.

Checking without harming your score

You do not have to risk your credit score to find out where you stand. MotifyMe® introduces you to Presto Finance Ltd, whose initial check is usually a soft search that does not affect your credit score. A hard credit search, which can affect it, is only run with your permission if you decide to proceed with an application.

If money is already tight

If you are struggling with existing debts, taking on more borrowing may not be the right step. Free, impartial help is available from MoneyHelper, StepChange and Citizens Advice. There is no charge for their guidance, and speaking to them will not affect your credit score.

MotifyMe® is an Introducer Appointed Representative of Presto Finance Ltd. This guide is general information, not financial advice or a recommendation. Finance is subject to status, affordability and lender criteria, and acceptance is not guaranteed.