Worried About Your Credit? We’ve Got Your Back.
Like to get started?
Whether you're replacing a run-down ride, upgrading for the family, or getting back on the road after a few financial bumps—Motor Vehicle Finance is here to help. We work with people across New Zealand to find car loans that make sense, even if your credit history isn’t perfect.
We know life happens. Our process is simple, flexible, and focused on your current situation—not just your credit score.
How Do Bad Credit Car Loans Work?
A car loan helps you borrow the money to buy your vehicle, and repay it over time—with interest and fees. Here’s what to think about:
If you’ve had credit issues in the past, you’re not alone—and you still have options.
Have questions? Want to talk things through? We’re here to help. Or, if you’re ready to get started, click Apply Now and we’ll guide you through it.
Start your car loan journey today. Our simple form takes just a moment to complete, and with a few clicks, you’ll be on your way.
Not ready to jump in just yet? Whether you have a few questions or simply want to get a feel for how we work, we’re here and happy to chat.
Can I get a car loan with bad credit in New Zealand?
Yes, it may be possible. While having a low credit score can make things trickier, we work with a range of lenders who consider applications from people with less-than-perfect credit histories. Every situation is different, so it’s worth seeing what options are available.
What is considered ‘bad credit’?
Bad credit usually means you’ve had issues like late payments and defaults in your credit history. In New Zealand, a credit score below 500 (depending on the reporting agency) is often considered low—but lenders also look at your current income, stability, and affordability.
Will applying affect my credit score?
We only make a credit check when you're ready to proceed with a lender. Too many credit checks in a short time can impact your score, so we aim to be smart and strategic with how your application is assessed.
What can I do to improve my chances of being approved?
A few ways to strengthen your application include showing proof of stable income, paying off any outstanding debts, and having a clear picture of your budget. A deposit or trade-in vehicle can also help.
Are interest rates higher for bad credit loans?
They can be. Lenders usually charge higher interest rates to offset the risk of lending to someone with a poor credit history. That’s why we work to match you with a loan that suits your situation—not just any loan.
How do I apply for a bad credit car loan?
You can start by filling in our short online form. We’ll ask a few simple questions and get the ball rolling. From there, we’ll work with you to understand your situation and potential options.
Important Information
Fixed interest rates for vehicle loans range from 9.95% p.a. to a maximum of 29.95% p.a. on a minimum 12 month to a maximum 60-month loan term. The actual interest rate charged to you will depend on your circumstances, the type of lending required, the security provided, and the lender. Approval is subject to meeting lending criteria, and affordability test applies. The lender will independently assess whether you are eligible for a loan. Same day payout is subject to meeting the above conditions and completing loan documentation by 12pm.
Fees apply, including an Establishment Fee of up to $350 and an Introducer Fee of up to $995. Also, lenders may charge a PPSR fee of between $0 and $14. For example: On a loan of $5,000 over 12 months at 10.95% p.a. with Establishment and Introducer fees totalling $495 and a PPSR Fee of $7.39, the total amount to repay is $5,835.93 which is 12 monthly payments of $486.34.Those amounts don’t include ongoing fees, such as Service Fees, charged by the lender. You can find full fee information in the loan contract. We recommend that you check the fees before accepting the loan offer. View more information about lender fees here.