Can You Buy A Car Without A Credit Score

By Mav OT •  Updated: 01/09/24 •  4 min read

If there was one thing in the finance sector of South Africa that has thrived so well, it is the relationship between credit score and purchasing. These two are interconnected, and they play a huge role in shaping the economic landscape in South Africa. 

- ADVERTISEMENT -

The credit score system was introduced in the early 2000s  to regulate and measure the creditworthiness of individuals. The system was made numerical to represent the financial discipline of individuals and extends to make lenders make constructive decisions about credit facilities. 

The rationale behind the South African credit score system provides insight into the risk level for lenders and borrowers. By initiating these credit scoring systems, lenders will have a general view of how responsible consumers can be. 

Although we have established credit score allows one to make a decision when it comes to purchasing. In this blog post, we will check on how one can buy a car without a credit score. 

Can you buy a car without a credit score?

Buying choices are closely linked to a person’s credit score, which shows their financial background, payment behaviour, and overall credit management. Having a good credit score can give you more financial flexibility, allowing you to take advantage of lower interest rates and qualify for bigger loans for important purchases such as houses or cars. This interconnectedness fosters a culture of financial responsibility, motivating individuals to prioritise timely payments and exhibit responsible financial behaviour to maintain a healthy credit profile.

Although the credit score initiates the steps in helping one purchase an item, there are possible ways to buy an item without relying on credit. 

In the aspect of buying a car without a credit score, it is very possible to do that. Individuals who do not have a credit score can buy a car through other means. 

However, in this type of situation, you may require extensive documentation, a consignor, a guarantor or maybe a third-party service like a lawyer. 

What credit score is needed to buy a car in South Africa?

If your credit score is above the required threshold, you can enjoy lower interest rates, which will ultimately save you money on the car loan. It also enhances the chances of loan approval, making the entire buying experience easier. Lenders are more inclined to provide individuals with higher credit scores with beneficial terms, knowing them as borrowers with lower risk.

- ADVERTISEMENT -

An ideal credit score of 680 or higher is needed when buying a car. It allows you to access better financing options and makes the entire purchasing process much easier. Your credit score is a reflection of your creditworthiness, demonstrating how well you handle your financial obligations. A credit score above 680 is considered favourable, reflecting a track record of punctual payments and responsible credit utilisation.

In addition, having a credit score between 650 and 740 opens up more financing options, giving buyers the flexibility to select from a wide range of lenders and loan products. Consumers have the freedom to choose terms that match their financial goals and budget, creating a car ownership experience that is both sustainable and enjoyable.

Can you apply for car finance without a credit score?

The process of car financing can be very cumbersome, especially when you don’t have a credit score. The amount involved requires a lot of documentation, screening background checks, investigation and many others to ensure the individual sees fit.
It is very possible to get car financing without a credit score. Although it can be tricky, you can apply for a car loan by providing a steady income flow, bank statement, employment contract, steady bill payments etc. 

What is the minimum salary to qualify for car finance in South Africa?

In South Africa, individuals have the opportunity to qualify for car loans with a minimum salary of R6500.  Individuals earning R6500 per month have access to financing options that are tailored to their budget.

Lenders and financial institutions have recognised this trend and are offering loans to individuals earning the minimum wage. This promotes openness and has a positive impact on the economy, as it facilitates mobility and consumer activity.

In South Africa, the minimum income of R6500 is a crucial factor for individuals to consider when planning their car financing options. 

- ADVERTISEMENT -

Keep Reading

How To Check Credit Score On The Capitec App

How To Check Credit Score On The Capitec App

The post will guide you on how to check your loan rating on the Capitec app, build your readings using Capitec, increase it, and how much advance Capitec can give you.

Does Business Credit Score Affect Personal Credit Score?

Does Business Credit Score Affect Personal Credit Score?

We will walk you through a series of questions related to business credit scores, the relationships between personal and business credit scores

How to Check Your Credit At Truworths

How to Check Your Credit At Truworths

Before we take you through how to check credit at Truworths, it is vital to know what Truworths is made up of. 

How to Buy A House With No Credit Check

How to Buy A House With No Credit Check

Let us take you through buying a house with no credit check and other series of questions pertaining acquiring a house connected to credit.  

How Does A Car Dealership Check Your Credit?

How Does A Car Dealership Check Your Credit?

Getting a credit extension in South Africa solely depends on your credit score.

Can I Get A Credit Card If Blacklisted?

Can I Get A Credit Card If Blacklisted?

Today, we will unpack everything you need to know about getting a credit card with a poor credit score, as well as some updated facts about ‘blacklisting’

Understanding Credit Searches: Hard And Soft Credit Checks

Understanding Credit Searches: Hard And Soft Credit Checks

We will touch on how you can avoid unnecessary credit searches that can negatively impact your score.

How to Improve Your Credit Score After Bankruptcy

How to Improve Your Credit Score After Bankruptcy

How to Improve Your Credit Score After Bankruptcy. Read on to learn how to improve your credit score after bankruptcy.  

Why is my Credit Score Not the Same as Other Credit Bureaus?

Why is my Credit Score Not the Same as Other Credit Bureaus?

Today we will dive a little deeper into why credit scores can vary between credit bureaus, and why you don’t need to worry too much about that variation

How To Cancel Credit Cards Without Impacting Credit Scores

How To Cancel Credit Cards Without Impacting Credit Scores

Similarly, if your gold card company is charging high annual fees, it may be prudent to cancel it. These points will be explained in great detail in the article.

Credit Score Ratings And What They Mean

Credit Score Ratings And What They Mean

Your credit score ratings tell a lot about an individual and therefore we are going to share with you what they mean. 

Why Does My Credit Card Charge Extra For The Petrol Pump?

Why Does My Credit Card Charge Extra For The Petrol Pump?

This paper further expounds on the reasons for levying such extra charges, the consequences of overcharging them

How to Get a Car Loan With a Low Credit Score

How to Get a Car Loan With a Low Credit Score

Today we look at everything you need to know about car loans and low credit in South Africa. 

How Far Back Do Mortgage Lenders Check Credit History

How Far Back Do Mortgage Lenders Check Credit History

Some may ask, how far do they go with these checks? What are the nitty-gritty of these mortgage loans? Well, we are about to find out more. 

How to Remove Late Payments From Your Credit Report

How to Remove Late Payments From Your Credit Report

Depending on the type of late payment entered. Read on to learn how to remove late payments from your credit report.