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. 

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.

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. 

Keep Reading

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 Many Credit Checks Are Too Many In South Africa

How Many Credit Checks Are Too Many In South Africa

How Many Credit Checks Are Too Many In South Africa. Let us get deeper into the credit check limitation and its associated consequences. 

What Does Below-Average Credit Score Mean

What Does Below-Average Credit Score Mean

How do you fix that and what are some of the financial opportunities available for the average credit score bearer? 

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. 

What is Required to Check Your Credit Score?

What is Required to Check Your Credit Score?

Today, we will look closer both at the borrower’s side of checking a credit score, and at the lenders

Which Accounts Have the Biggest Impact on Your Credit Score?

Which Accounts Have the Biggest Impact on Your Credit Score?

Today we will unpack some of the things to know about the heavy-hitting accounts on your credit report

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 Check A Customer Credit Limit On SAP

How to Check A Customer Credit Limit On SAP

In all these, our focus is on credit check limits for individuals. We are going to take you through customer credit limits using SAP.

How Bankruptcy Affects Your Ability to Secure Credit

How Bankruptcy Affects Your Ability to Secure Credit

Ultimately, we will understand the ability to secure credit and how long bankruptcy can affect your credit.

How Much Do Estate Agents Charge For A Credit Check

How Much Do Estate Agents Charge For A Credit Check

This piece will provide some information that tends to address how much an estate agent can charge for a credit check

How to Improve Your Credit Score After Debt Settlement

How to Improve Your Credit Score After Debt Settlement

This article explores the measures you can take to improve your credit score after debt settlement. 

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 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 To Apply For A Credit Card With Low Credit Ratings

How To Apply For A Credit Card With Low Credit Ratings

Here is a detailed walkthrough showing you how to navigate the gold card landscape with a low score.

How to Find Out What’s Affecting Your Credit Score?

How to Find Out What’s Affecting Your Credit Score?

Today, we will walk you through working out what is affecting your credit score and how to fix it.