Can You Get a Car Loan If You Have No Savings?

💰 Do You Need Savings to Get a Car Loan?

No! While having savings or a deposit can improve approval chances, some lenders offer no-deposit car loans.

Your approval chances depend on:

✅ Your credit score
✅ Your employment stability
✅ Your existing debts and income

If you don’t have savings, lenders will assess your ability to afford repayments without financial strain.

🔍 Can You Get a No-Deposit Car Loan?

Yes, but lenders will have stricter requirements. Here’s how no-deposit car loans compare to standard car loans:

Factor No-Deposit Car Loan Car Loan with Deposit
✅ Approval Chances Lower – lenders see higher risk. Higher – deposit reduces lender risk.
⚠️ Interest Rate Higher – due to increased lender risk. Lower – due to deposit reducing risk.
💳 Credit Score Requirement Must be good to excellent for approval. More flexibility, even for lower scores.
💰 Repayment Amount Higher – loan covers the full car price. Lower – deposit reduces loan amount.

If you don’t have savings, lenders will look at your credit history and ability to make repayments before approving a no-deposit loan.

✅ How to Get a Car Loan with No Savings

If you don’t have savings for a deposit, follow these steps to increase your approval chances:

1️⃣ Check Your Credit Score – A higher score improves approval odds.
2️⃣ Show Stable Income – Lenders prefer applicants with consistent employment.
3️⃣ Lower Existing Debts – Reducing debt lowers your debt-to-income ratio.
4️⃣ Consider a Guarantor Loan – A guarantor can help you get approved without a deposit.
5️⃣ Use a Finance Broker – A broker can find lenders that offer no-deposit car loans.

Some lenders may require additional conditions to approve a no-savings car loan.

🚨 Risks of Getting a No-Deposit Car Loan

While it’s possible to get a car loan without savings, there are risks to consider:

❌ Higher loan repayments – You’re borrowing the full car price.
❌ Increased interest rates – No-deposit loans often cost more over time.
❌ Stricter approval criteria – Lenders only approve low-risk borrowers.

If you’re unsure, a finance broker can help you compare options and find the best no-deposit car loan.

🚀 Why a Finance Broker Can Help If You Have No Savings

If you don’t have savings but need a car, a finance broker can help by:

✅ Finding lenders that offer no-deposit car loans.
✅ Matching you with a loan that fits your financial situation.
✅ Helping you avoid unnecessary rejections that harm your credit score.

If you have no savings but need a car, don’t risk rejection! 🚗💨 A finance broker can help you secure a no-deposit car loan with the right lender.

If you don’t have savings but need a car loan, you still have options! A finance broker can match you with lenders who offer no-deposit car finance.

 

DISCLAIMER

The information provided on this website is general in nature only and has been prepared without considering your financial needs, circumstances and objectives and should NOT be construed as financial, taxation or legal advice. For more information, get in touch with our experienced partner brokers today.

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All Your Questions Answered

What is a car loan and how does it work?

A car loan is a finance product where a lender provides funds for you to purchase a vehicle, which you repay over time with interest.

What’s the difference between secured and unsecured car loans?

Secured loans use the car as collateral, often leading to lower interest rates. Unsecured loans don’t, but usually have higher rates.

What loan terms are available for car finance?

Most car loans offer terms from 3 to 7 years. Find out what term suits you best.

How is interest calculated on a car loan?

Interest is based on the loan amount, term, and rate. Fixed-rate loans have predictable repayments, while variable rates can change.

Can I get a car loan for a private sale?

Yes, many lenders accept private sellers. You’ll need to provide extra documents.

Do government employees get lower interest rates on car loans?

Yes — many lenders offer better rates due to your stable income. Explore finance options for government employees.

Can I apply for a car loan while on probation?

Yes. Many workers are approved during probation.

What credit score do I need as a government employee?

A score of 650+ is ideal, but lower scores may still be considered.

Are corporate professionals eligible for low-rate finance?

Yes, especially if you're full-time with strong income.

Can I get car finance with a novated lease?

Yes, many government departments support novated leasing.

Can I get a car loan with no credit history?

Yes, it's still possible to get a car loan with no credit history.

What if I’ve been declined elsewhere?

A broker can help restructure your application for better results.

How do I check my credit score?

Use Equifax, Experian, or Illion for a free check.

Can I get finance if I have a current personal loan?

Yes, if your income supports both loans. A broker will assess your capacity.

What documents do I need to apply?

Typically: ID, payslips, and bank statements.

Can casual workers get car loans?

Yes, if you’ve worked consistently for 6+ months.

Can I apply if I’m self-employed with an ABN?

Yes. Consider a low-doc loan.

Can Centrelink be used as income?

Yes, when paired with PAYG income.

What’s the minimum income to qualify for car finance?

Most lenders prefer $30,000+ annually, but this varies.

Can I apply on a fixed-term contract?

Yes, especially if it’s government-backed.

Can I finance a used car?

Yes, most lenders allow used cars under 10 years old.

Can I get a loan for an SUV or family car?

Absolutely

Can I finance a caravan or motorbike?

Yes

Can I finance an EV or hybrid car?

Yes. You may even qualify for green car loan discounts.

Can I use my car for both work and personal use?

Yes you can.

What is a balloon payment?

It’s a lump sum due at the end of the loan term.

Can I make extra repayments?

Yes, many lenders allow this without penalty.

Can I pay off the loan early?

Yes — ask if there’s an early payout fee.

Is there a deposit required?

Not always.

What loan terms are available?

1 to 7 years is standard.

How long does approval take?

24–48 hours in most cases

Can I apply online?

Yes — most lenders and brokers accept online applications.

Is a broker better than going direct?

Often, yes. They can compare lenders for you.

Can I get pre-approved?

Yes — and it gives you better negotiating power at the dealership.

What happens after I apply?

Your documents are reviewed, and if approved, the lender issues funds to the seller.

Can I get a loan with a visa?

Yes, in some cases. see finance for visa holders here.

Do I need a driver’s licence to apply?

Yes, but learners may qualify with a co-applicant.

Can I apply with someone else?

Yes, joint applications are allowed.

Can I refinance my current car loan?

Yes — it can lower your repayments or get you a better rate.

Can I trade in my old car as a deposit?

Yes, many lenders accept trade-ins toward the deposit.

Can nurses get car finance?

Yes — see nurse-specific finance tips.

Can teachers apply while on contract?

Yes. Read how to get approved.

Do defence personnel get special car loan rates?

Yes, in some cases. Your job security is a major advantage.

Can FIFO government workers apply?

Yes — consistency in income matters more than job location.

Can I apply if I’m on maternity leave?

Yes, especially if you’re returning to work. Here’s how.

Can I use car finance to buy interstate?

Yes — just make sure the seller provides all required documents.

Can I finance a car from an auction?

Yes, but only through select lenders. Ask your broker first.

Will applying hurt my credit score?

Only if you apply to multiple lenders directly. Brokers help protect your score.

Can I get a car loan if I’ve been bankrupt before?

Yes — see bad credit car loan options.

What if I want to upgrade my car before the loan ends?

You can sell the car, pay off the loan early, or refinance.