How to Create a Budget for Buying a Used Car

Have Your Finances In Order Before Visiting a Used Car Dealership

Buying a used car can be an exciting yet daunting task. Whether it's your first vehicle or an upgrade from your previous ride, buying a car requires you to create a budget. Budgeting carefully ensures you make a well-informed decision.

When you visit a used car dealership, it’s important to go in with the knowledge of how much you want to spend, how much you can afford, and what loan process works best for you.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll share budget-planning tips to help you get ready for your visit to a used car dealership in Indiana. Implement them, and you'll soon be able to drive away in a budget-friendly, quality used car!

Assess Your Finances

Start by evaluating your financial situation. This means taking a look at all your money. Find out much you can comfortably put toward buying a used car without making it hard to pay your other expenses. Consider:

• Income: Calculate your monthly income after taxes and consider any bills or debts you already have to repay.

• Expenses: List your monthly bills such as rent, utilities, groceries, and savings. Then, account for additional costs like insurance, maintenance, and gas.

Having a budget plan is essential because it helps you narrow down your options. By setting a budget, you can focus on the used car dealerships near you that offer vehicles within your price range. This saves you time and energy, as you won't waste hours browsing through cars that are out of your budget.

Set Your Budget Before Visiting a Used Car Dealership

Once you have a clear picture of your financial standing, establish upper and lower limits for your car purchase. This range will serve as a guide during the selection process.

• Initial purchase cost: Research the prices of the specific make and model you're interested in at different dealerships, such as the best used car dealership in your area and at other used car dealerships in Indiana. This will give you an idea of the average market value and help you determine a realistic budget.

• Down payments or trades: If you have a vehicle to trade in or can make a larger down payment, they can help reduce the upfront cost and lower your monthly payments.

• Cost of ownership: Think about additional costs such as taxes, registration fees, and any potential financing charges. These expenses can vary depending on where you live and the specific dealership you choose. It's important to get a clear understanding of all the costs involved so you don't end up spending more than you can afford. You should also look into insurance costs for your vehicle.

• Potential repairs: Consider the maximum age of the vehicle and the miles on its odometer that you’re comfortable with purchasing. If you buy an older, high-mileage vehicle, keep in mind that although it should be in good working order when you purchase it, over time, you may need to pay for certain repairs.

Consider Your Financing Options at a Used Car Dealership

Now that you know how much money you can spend each month on your new-to-you ride, it’s time to determine where you can get financing, such as an auto loan. Keep in mind that most banks and credit unions require a minimum credit score of 650. You can find your credit score through credit bureaus such as Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax.

If your credit score is lower than 650, you may still qualify for a loan, but it may be difficult to find one. In fact, each loan you apply for and are not approved for will lower your credit score further with what is called a “hard inquiry.”

For people with past credit struggles or for those who don’t have a credit history to grow their score, buy here pay here car dealerships, a type of used car dealership, can help. These car lots, found throughout Indiana, Michigan, and Illinois, offer in-house financing that doesn’t require a credit check. Approval is based solely on your income and your ability to repay your loan. Consider exploring these dealerships as an option for used car financing.

You’re on Your Way!

By following these tips and creating a solid budget plan, you'll be ready to find a budget-friendly, quality used car at a dealership near you. With your budget in hand, reach out to a dealership you trust. So go ahead, start your car search, and drive away with confidence!

Turned Down for an Auto Loan at a Traditional Dealership or Bank? Try a Buy Here Pay Here Car Lot!

Consider a Bad Credit Car Dealership to Get approved for an Auto Loan in Indiana

Have you been dreaming of owning a new car, only to be turned down for a traditional auto loan due to your bad credit? Don't worry; you're not alone. Many people with less-than-perfect credit have faced this same problem. This doesn't mean that your dream of owning a car is over.

In fact, there's a solution that you may not have considered yet - bad credit car dealerships. These specialized dealerships cater to individuals with challenging credit histories or those who haven’t built credit yet and can be a lifesaver. Find out how no credit car loans can save the day and get you behind the wheel of a car you love.

Understanding Bad Credit Car Dealerships

If you've been turned down for an auto loan at a bank, credit union, or traditional used car dealerships due to bad credit, you may be feeling discouraged. But don't lose hope just yet! Quick Auto has seven locations of specialized dealerships that cater specifically to people who have experienced what you’re going through now.

No credit check buy here pay here lots like Quick Auto offer a unique financing option that allows you to both find and finance your vehicle in one place. Choose from a variety of used cars on our seven lots, so you can find an ideal vehicle at the right price.

Unlike traditional dealerships, we don't require a credit check to approve you for a car loan. The convenience of bad credit car dealerships can be a game-changer for those who have been rejected elsewhere.

The Benefits of a Bad Credit Car Dealership

One of the biggest benefits of used car dealerships for bad credit is their ability to provide financing without the need for a credit check. This means that even if you have bad credit or no credit history at all, you can still secure a loan and drive away in a reliable used car. Your credit score doesn’t have to be a roadblock to car ownership.

Another advantage of bad credit car dealerships is the convenience. Because you financed your vehicle where you bought it, you can make your payments directly to us, not to a third-party lender you’ve never met. Use our payment portal online or drop off your payment at Quick Auto.

Better still, we report your on-time payments to the major credit reporting bureaus. This means that if you consistently make on-time payments to us, you can improve your credit score simply by buying a used vehicle. A better score could mean a better life for you: job opportunities, a nicer apartment, and even eventually buying your own home.

How to Have a Successful Visit to a Bad Credit Car Dealership

Before you visit one of our seven locations throughout Indiana, near Illinois and Michigan, take a look at our wide selection of vehicles. Determine the kind of vehicle you want: sedan, coupe, SUV, truck, or minivan. Then, take a look at the down payments and weekly payments to find a few you think would fit into your budget. By doing this, you can make your visit go much faster and get into a new-to-you vehicle right away.

You can also pre-apply for financing at the Quick Auto location near you. By filling out this form in advance, you’re providing our helpful customer service representatives with the information they need to give you an in-house auto loan.

When you arrive at our car lot, be sure you bring your government-issued photo ID (such as your driver’s license), a utility bill in your name with your address on it to prove residency, and copies of your most recent pay stubs. We need these documents to approve you for financing for a used car.

Are You Ready to Turn Your Loan Denial into an Opportunity?

If you've been turned down for a used car financing in the past, it's easy to feel discouraged. Instead, think of your loan denial as an opportunity. Don’t give up on your dream of owning a car, when you could be exploring the options available at buy here pay here car lots - specifically at Quick Auto.

By choosing a vehicle at one of our no credit check buy here pay here lots, you can get behind the wheel of a reliable used car and get back on track financially. With flexible financing options and willingness to work with individuals who have bad credit or no credit history, our bad credit car dealerships can help you get behind the wheel of a car you love.

Find the Quick Auto location nearest you in Hammond, South Bend, Highland, Elkhart, La Porte, Mishawaka, and Portage.

Our Buy Here Pay Here Cars Are Here to Help You Meet Your Goals

Are you looking for a way to make your life easier in the new year? Look no further than a used car.

Although the idea of purchasing a new-to-you ride may not seem glamorous or particularly important, it can actually have a significant positive impact on your daily life. Not only are there options available to purchase a used car without a credit check at Quick Auto, but a reliable vehicle can provide safety and convenience and help you create a future you’ll love.

In this blog post, the Quick Auto team will explore the various ways a used car can improve your life in 2024.

Cut Down on Transit Time With a Used Car for Sale
When you rely on public transportation, you have little control over departure or arrival times. You have to arrange your schedule to align with the bus schedule. Often, this means commuting to and from work and school will take longer than it would if you could drive yourself.

A used car gives you the flexibility to travel when and where you please. This means you’re not a captive of public transit. Your newfound freedom can drastically improve your day-to-day life in the new year. View the full Quick Auto inventory to find a vehicle to take the place of the city bus.

Stay Warm and Skip Public Transportation
Waiting outside for the bus in the winter is unpleasant - and in some cases feels like torture. A reliable used car with a working heater - and maybe even heated seats - means you can stay toasty as you drive to work, school, or to go shopping.

Owning your own vehicle means you’ll spend less on warm winter gear, like heavy parkas, scarfs, hats, and gloves. Truly, the best used cars for winter are any that get you safely and warmly to your destination.Read how to evaluate used cars to find one that you’ll love.

Find a Job Outside Your Usual Area
Taking public transportation to work means you’re limited to working in neighborhoods that the bus provides easy access to. These limitations also come with another: limited income.

Your own vehicle gives you the freedom to travel to areas of the city that were usually out of reach, thus opening the door to job opportunities you never had before.

Even if your current job doesn’t pay much, you could qualify for a loan for a buy here pay here car. Then, when you apply for new jobs in the new year, you can be assured you’ll be able to get to work. Find out how to get approved for in-house financing at Quick Auto.

A Buy Here Pay Here Car Can Improve Your Credit Score
If you’ve had credit challenges in the past, it may have been difficult to find a trustworthy vehicle. But in the new year, you can actually improve your FICO credit score when you buy a used car for sale at a buy here pay here car lot.

At Quick Auto, we don’t check your credit when you apply to buy a vehicle. Instead, we look only at your monthly income to determine your ability to pay your loan. We’ll report your on-time payments to the major credit reporting bureaus - Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax - and your score can increase as a result.

What can you do with a higher credit score in the new year? You can qualify for a nicer apartment in a neighborhood you love, get hired at your dream job, and even work toward creating your own version of the American dream.

Improve Your Status

It may seem relatively minor or unimportant, but owning a used car can improve your social status. Whether it’s among your friend group, your relatives, or at work, your status is important.

Status means you can be trusted to show up to social activities on time and can support those you love by offering rides to and from doctor appointments, the mall, and family events. If your New Year’s resolution is to improve friendships and family relationships, being responsible with a buy here pay here car could help you meet your goal.

Get Started on Creating Resolutions for 2024
When you’re ready to commit to New Year’s resolutions, and if they include improving your life with a used car, then it’s time to visit Quick Auto. With seven locations in Indiana near Illinois and Michigan, there’s a buy here pay here car lot near you.

To get started, complete our financing application. Then visit our nearest location for a test drive and to finish your purchase.

Our Used Car Dealership Brainstormed a List of Presents for Everyone on Your List

Whether Santa Claus leaves gifts under your tree, you swap small presents for Hanukkah, you celebrate Zawadi on the last night of Kwanzaa, or if you have another unique gift-giving holiday celebration, then you’ve likely experienced the stress of finding special items for everyone on your list.

Most adults have one thing in common: they drive a vehicle. Thankfully, this makes it easier than ever to find gifts! Consider these holiday gift ideas that pair well with your loved one’s ride, especially if it’s a recent purchase from a used car lot like Quick Auto.

Rubber Floor Mats for Inclement Weather

Most used cars don’t come with floor mats, let alone heavy duty rubber ones meant for winter weather. Rubber floor mats protect against road salt, slush, and mud that’s commonplace during Indiana winters.

You can find floor mats to fit your loved one’s vehicle for a reasonable price on retail giant Amazon.com, or shop your local auto parts store.

Emergency Car Kit
An ideal gift for drivers ready for an adventure in any weather, an emergency car kit includes jumper cables, air pressure gauge, flares, and other emergency supplies.

Buy a pre-made kit, or assemble one yourself in a basket or plastic tote to stow in the trunk.

Detailing Supplies or Car Wash Membership
Used car dealerships usually make sure vehicles are clean before their new owners drive them off the lot, but keeping them clean can be a challenge. The perfect gift for used car owners is a five-gallon bucket of detailing supplies - or a car wash membership if they’re not the DIY type.

Gift Cards
Giving a gift card gives your loved one some choice when it’s time to pick out their own gift. Consider these gift card ideas:

• Your loved one will have to stop at the pump to refuel their vehicle, so why not help them do that? A gift card to their favorite gas station is the ultimate gift! Not only will it keep their car’s tank on full, but they can also snag their favorite snacks and drinks for road trips or commutes to work or school.

• Windshield wiper blades, wiper fluid refills, and other maintenance items will become necessary over the course of car ownership. A gift card to the local auto store is ideal, so your loved one always has what they need to care for their vehicle.

• Speaking of caring for their vehicle, a gift card to the local drive-up oil change company is also a great gift that encourages regular maintenance to ensure the longevity of the vehicle.

Custom Keychain
First-time car buyers are often proud of their purchasing power and want to show off their new-to-them wheels. Why not make the experience even more special by ordering a custom keychain for them?

Choose a keychain in their favorite color, or have a metal one engraved with their initials. Or, shop for a keychain that features their favorite movie franchise or character. They’ll always know whose keys are theirs thanks to your unique gift.

Travel Coffee Mug

Used car lots sometimes offer cups of coffee to car shoppers, but what about after customers drive away in their upgraded rides? For the caffeine-fueled driver in your life, a travel coffee mug makes a great gift.

Be sure to pick one sized to fit in their cup holders, with a secure lid that seals fully to reduce the risk of spills. And keep in mind that travel coffee mugs can keep other drinks hot (or cold!), so even if they’re not a coffee drinker, they’ll still get great use from your gift.

Air Freshener, Steering Wheel Cover, and Car Coaster
Create a cohesive look in your loved one’s vehicle by choosing a matching air freshener, steering wheel cover, and car coaster.

Air fresheners come in a variety of scents and styles, so you can find one that matches your loved one’s aesthetic. A tree-shape air freshener is good for those who like the classics. A spinning record player air freshener is perfect for a music lover. Or choose a device that uses all-natural essential oils for the environmentalist in your life.

Add a steering wheel cover in a similar theme or color scheme, plus a car coaster. These rubberized mats sit in the bottom of the cup holder for extra grip and condensation absorbency.

Seat Covers
Although the used cars we sell at Quick Auto are in good condition, sometimes the best way to refresh a vehicle is with stylish seat covers. Upgrade a fabric seat with leather-like covers, or add elements of coziness with a shearling seat cover. Universal seat covers are an ideal gift, even when you aren’t sure what your friend or family member drives.

No Car Yet? Gift Part of a Down Payment on a Used Car
If you know your loved one has been saving up to buy a vehicle, a truly treasured gift is a contribution toward their down payment. When they shop at their local used car dealership, like Quick Auto, they can add your gift to their savings. Our team will take a look at their down payment and monthly income to help them choose a vehicle that fits their budget.

One of our seven used car dealerships near you can help your loved one get into a nicer, newer car - and isn’t that the ultimate gift?

Find Them at Our Buy Here Pay Here Car Lots Throughout Indiana

As the holiday season approaches, many of us are gearing up for road trips to visit family and friends or to escape to a winter wonderland. However, with unpredictable weather and long distances to cover, it's important to have a reliable and comfortable vehicle for your journey.

That's why we've compiled a list of the five best road trip cars that are perfect for your holiday adventures. Whether you prefer a spacious SUV or a sleek sedan, these models offer the perfect combination of features and performance to make your holiday road trip a memorable and safe one. So buckle up! Let's take a closer look at our top picks at Quick Auto.

The Rugged Charm of the Jeep Compass
The Jeep Compass is a perfect companion for your holiday road trip, combining rugged charm with modern features. This compact SUV is designed to tackle any terrain with ease, making it an ideal choice for those winter adventures.

The Jeep Compass boasts a sturdy and reliable build, ensuring you can navigate through snow, ice, and slippery roads with confidence. One of the standout features of the Jeep Compass is its safety. It's considered one of the safest road trip cars, offering advanced safety technologies such as blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning. These features provide you with peace of mind on the road, especially during long drives when fatigue can set in.

If you're in the market for a new-to-you vehicle, look no further than our local buy here pay here car lots with seven locations in Indiana. Used options still offer the same style and reliability, but at a more affordable price.

Embrace Freedom with the Ford Escape
Hit the open road with the Ford Escape, a top choice for your holiday road trip. This versatile SUV offers a perfect blend of performance, comfort, and safety features, making it an ideal companion for your adventures.

When it comes to safety, the Ford Escape shines as one of the safest cars in its class. A variety of trim options and configurations means you can find the perfect model that suits your needs and budget. Many models come with all-wheel drive, four-wheel drive, or front-wheel drive, all three great options for driving on snowy or icy roads.

This particular used car for sale offers a spacious cargo area, especially with the rear seats folded down. And the backseat has plenty of legroom, even for adult passengers accompanying you on your trip.

Experience Travel in the Chevy Equinox
When it comes to experiencing comfortable travels on your holiday road trip, the Chevrolet Equinox is the perfect choice. This midsize SUV offers a combination of style, comfort, and advanced features that will make every mile of your journey a delight.

With its superior crash test ratings and a range of advanced safety technologies, you can rest assured that you and your passengers are well-protected in one of the safest cars for road trips. Plus, its spacious interior ensures kids and pets alike have plenty of space for all their accessories, like blankets, toys, and treats.

Glide Smoothly in the Buick Verano
The Buick Verano is the perfect choice if you want a bit of luxury on your holiday road trip. This sedan offers a combination of elegance, comfort, and performance that will make your journey a joyous one.

When it comes to finding a reliable and affordable option, you can find well-cared-for Buick Verano models at a budget-friendly price for a luxury car, without compromising on quality or features. The Buick Verano excels in providing a comfortable and quiet ride, thanks to its refined interior and excellent sound insulation. Its spacious cabin ensures that both you and your passengers have ample legroom and headspace, allowing everyone to stretch out and relax during those long drives.

Safety is always a top priority, and the Buick Verano doesn't disappoint. Newer models are well-equipped with safety features that give you peace of mind on the road. Its affordability and reliability as a used car for sale make it an appealing option.

Hit the Road with Confidence in a Nissan Altima
The Nissan Altima is the perfect companion for hitting the roads this holiday season. When it comes to safety, the Nissan Altima excels with its advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic alert in newer models. These safety technologies are especially crucial during winter road trips when road conditions can be unpredictable.

In addition to its safety features, the Nissan Altima offers a comfortable and spacious interior, ensuring a pleasant and enjoyable ride for both the driver and passengers. Its supportive seats and ample legroom make long drives feel like a breeze, while its quiet cabin provides a peaceful environment for conversations and relaxation.

A variety of Nissan Altima choices are readily available at our seven buy here pay here car lots. With its reputation for reliability and its range of trim options and configurations, you can find the perfect Altima that suits your needs and budget.

Test Drive the Safest Cars for Road Trips at Quick Auto
When you’re ready to buy a reliable vehicle to haul your family, pets, and gifts this holiday season, look no further than Quick Auto.

Our locations in Hammond, South Bend, Highland, Elkhart, La Porte, Mishawaka, and Portage are easily accessible from Indiana, Illinois, and Michigan, and offer a huge selection of used vehicles for any budget.

Plus, all our vehicles come with an 18-month protection plan, so you can enjoy reliability and safety all in one.

Start shopping online today, and come in for a test drive when you’re ready.

Car Safety and These Winter Driving Tips are Key for Navigating Indiana Roadways

Being a safe driver requires caution, carefully watching the roadway and vehicles around you, and taking care of your vehicle.

But when winter weather hits - think snow, ice, slush, and sleet - safely driving a used car takes on a whole new meaning.

Keep reading to learn how to care for your vehicle in colder temperatures and to get tips on winter driving and general car safety for the coming season.

Winter Maintenance Tips for Used Cars
Before driving your used car in winter, ensure certain maintenance and preparation tasks are complete. Refer to your car’s owner’s manual for complete details on maintenance timelines and requirements suggested by the manufacturer.

First, ensure your vehicle gets regular oil changes. If your vehicle uses regular motor oil, a pre-winter oil change ensures your car has a full tank of oil in the right viscosity for colder winter weather. Oil keeps all the parts in your car’s engine moving smoothly.

You may also want to get new windshield wipers and refill the wiper fluid tank with a formula designed to not freeze during low temperatures.

Antifreeze is especially important in winter. Learn more about how to check and refill your antifreeze as needed.

Consider getting snow tires. Most used cars for sale near you come with all-purpose tires, and although they’re appropriate for all seasons, winter tires improve car safety and performance on icy roads. If you don’t want to buy snow tires, ensure your all-purpose tires are in good condition, with plenty of tread left.

Finally, pack your car, truck, or SUV with emergency supplies, like a first-aid kit, portable shovel, ice scraper, blanket, snow boots, flashlight with spare batteries, nonperishable food, basic tools, flashing LED light or flares, and more. You can assemble this kit on your own, or purchase a pre-made one at any auto parts store. Stow all your supplies in your trunk or cargo area for easy access.

Winter Driving Tips
In Indiana and surrounding states, becoming a safe driver in all seasons takes practice. Even if you don’t have all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, you can still safely navigate roads by following these instructions.

To prevent sliding on icy roads:

1. Drive at a safe speed. Sometimes, this is below the speed limit.

2. Keep a greater distance between your car and the car in front of you, in case you need to stop.

3. If you need to stop, take your foot off the gas in advance of the red light or stop sign. Then, slowly and gently press on the brake pedal to come to a stop.

If you do start sliding or skidding, follow these steps:

1. Take your foot off the gas pedal.

2. Steer in the direction you want your vehicle to go.

3. Pump your brakes gently; if you have anti-lock brakes, gently press the brake pedal.

4. Don’t overcorrect your steering wheel.

If your car is stuck on ice or snow in the parking lot or side of the road, follow these steps:

1. Don’t step on the gas. Your car may shoot forward once it gets traction, causing a wreck.

2. Turn your steering wheel left and right a couple of times to push snow out of the way.

3. Shovel snow away from your tires and vehicle, if you have it. Add kitty litter to the path of your tires, which can help you get a better grip on the road.

4. If your car has an automatic transmission - not a “stick shift” - put it into first gear and lightly apply the gas. You can also put your car in reverse and back into first gear to “rock” out of the rut.

Do You Have a Reliable Used Car to Drive?
The most foolproof way to prepare for driving in bad weather is to make sure you can count on your vehicle. If yours isn’t reliable, you may want to look into used cars for sale near you. Even if your credit score is lower than you’d like, you can still qualify for a loan at certain types of dealerships, like buy here pay here car lots.

Buying a pre-owned vehicle comes with a lot of benefits. For example, used cars depreciate more slowly than those you buy new and can come at a more affordable price. In terms of safety, cars from later model years come with all the features you need, like back-up cameras, lane-keeping assist, and more.

No Credit, No Problem: How Quick Auto Makes the Car-Buying Process Possible for Everyone

Yes, YOU Can Qualify for a Car Loan at Our Buy Here Pay Here Dealerships in Indiana

According to the federal government, 31% of applicants will be rejected for a traditional auto loan within the next 12 months. Because traditional loans are based on your credit score, many applicants will be rejected solely due to a score that is considered too low.

Quick Auto, however, approves the vast majority of car shoppers for a loan, with few exceptions. As long as you can prove your monthly income is adequate to cover weekly car payments, our buy here pay here dealership will offer you in-house financing.

What’s Different About Us?

Keep reading to learn more about what’s unique about each step of our process:

• credit check

• Fast purchase process

• 18-month protection plan on all vehicles

• A wide selection of affordable used cars near you

The Quick Auto Process: No Credit Check

Our unique approach to used car lots and financing gives people like you the chance to own a reliable vehicle. Our required documentation, for example, is so simple that it will take most people only a couple of minutes to gather.

Show Us Your Photo ID

A government-issued photo identification card, such as a driver’s license, is necessary to begin the application process. On your application, you’ll also write down your driver’s license number and state.

Our team also uses your ID card to verify your identity in order to issue an in-house car loan, so it’s important that your photo ID is unexpired.

Provide Copies of Your Latest Pay Stubs

Our buy here pay here car dealership team will also review your pay stubs and total up your monthly income to determine your loan amount and monthly payments.

Be sure to bring your latest pay stub from any job you’re actively working, including any additional part-time jobs you have.

Because Quick Auto doesn’t perform credit checks, we base our financing offers only on your ability to repay your used car loan. We determine this based on your income.

Share Your Mailing Address

The final component of your application is to show proof of your mailing address, which you can accomplish by bringing a copy of a recent bill, such as your electric bill or cable bill. The bill should be in your name and must have been issued within the last 30 days.

By providing proof of your mailing address, Quick Auto can be sure to have all your contact information on file, in case we need to send future correspondence to you.

Get Approved

Because we don’t spend time checking your credit or talking to banks and credit unions, Quick Auto customers can purchase their vehicle in as little as one hour. You don’t need to spend your entire day at the dealership, nor do you need to attempt to get pre-approvals from traditional lenders.

Our car-buying process is the exact opposite of what most people expect when it comes to buying a used car.

The Quick Auto Process: Used Cars with a Warranty

Another way we stand out is our selection of used cars in eight cities in Indiana, near the Illinois and Michigan borders.

Small car lots may only offer a couple of vehicles in your price range or that fit your lifestyle, but with hundreds to choose from, Quick Auto helps ensure you’re satisfied with your vehicle’s size, fuel economy, and quality. All our car buyers have immense choices in their budget, which means no one feels limited.

Our buy here pay here dealership cares about our clients so much that we also provide a free-of-charge 18-month protection plan. In the unlikely event your vehicle needs certain mechanical repairs, Quick Auto will take care of it for you.

Kick Off the Process Today at the Quick Auto Location Near You

Now that you understand how you can get approved for an auto loan for an affordable used car, it’s time to take action. Harness the power of car ownership and embrace the freedom it will offer you.

Start by completing our online credit application today.

More Resources from Our Car Dealership Blog

Want to learn more about Quick Auto and our seven Indiana car lots? Check out some of our favorite car dealership blog posts for more information and guidance on buying affordable used cars near you.

• Common Misconceptions About No Credit Financing

• 5 Tips for Financing a Car With No Credit

• What to Expect When You Visit One of Our Locations

How to Improve Your Credit Score with a Buy Here Pay Here Car

Bad Credit Auto Dealers in Indiana Are On Your Side

Traditional lenders, landlords, and even employers carefully examine your credit score and use it to gauge whether you’re trustworthy and smart with money.

Unfortunately, your credit score as reported by the major bureaus - Equifax, TransUnion, and Experian - doesn’t include any context. For example, your score might be 520, but the credit bureaus don’t explain that you have been working to change your life for the past year or that your mistakes were from when you were much younger.

In order to be approved for the nicer apartment or get a 9-to-5 job with reliable paychecks and a consistent schedule, you need to improve your credit score. Another thing nearly everyone needs is reliable transportation. So why not get a quality used car while you work on your score? Bad credit auto dealers can help with both. Here’s how.

Bad Credit Auto Dealers Don’t Check Your Credit Score
Unlike auto loans from a bank or credit union, in-house financing doesn’t consider your credit score. In fact, buy here pay here car dealerships don’t even waste time checking your credit report. Instead, they consider whether you’re capable of repaying a loan.

To calculate whether you can, they look at the pay stubs that you provide to prove your income. If you have a steady paycheck, you can qualify for a car loan without needing a strong credit history. Securing this auto loan for a buy here pay here car is your first step toward improving your credit score.

Buy Here Pay Here Dealerships Help You Budget
Because buy here pay here dealerships don’t care about your credit score and instead focus on your ability to pay back a loan based on income, they ensure that you don’t end up purchasing a car that you ultimately cannot afford.

When considering your income, they help you determine how much your car payment should be to fit into your budget and lifestyle. Their helpful sales team won’t show you vehicles that cost more than you can afford, which can help you focus on what really matters: getting a reliable vehicle that you like, that will get you from point A to point B.

These dealerships want to set you up for success so that you are able to build your credit and eventually own your used car once your payments are complete.

Make On-Time Payments for Your Buy Here Pay Here Car
Now that you have signed the purchase paperwork for your new-to-you car, you’ll need to make regular payments to the buy here pay here dealership. Follow your payment schedule as outlined in your purchase agreement.

In some cases, you will need to make once-monthly payments. Other loan agreements require twice-monthly payments. If you have questions about how often to make payments, contact the car lot directly. Making on-time payments is vital to improving your credit score.

Buy Here Pay Here Car Lots Report Your Loan to Credit Bureaus
Buy here pay here used car dealers report your payment history to the major credit bureaus. If you have been making on-time payments and your loan debt is decreasing as scheduled, the credit bureaus take note and raise your credit score.

You can watch your score increase if you request your free annual credit report, or if you have credit monitoring through your bank or other company.

What If Your Payments Are Late?
Just as a buy here pay here car loan can help increase your credit score if you’re responsible for your payments, it can also drop your score if you’re irresponsible, just like any other loan you take out. If you have made late payments or missed payments altogether, your car dealer will report that, too.

The information that the car lot shares with the credit bureaus is ultimately up to you and your actions. As long as you’re responsible and make on-time payments as outlined in your loan agreement, a buy here pay here car can help you improve your credit score in as little as a few months.

If for some reason you can’t make a timely payment, reach out to the used car lot where you purchased your vehicle. Because they extended in-house financing, they could come up with a plan to keep you on track with your payments. Be proactive in the event of temporary financial hardships by requesting an updated payment plan to help protect your increasing credit score. This shows how responsible you are and that you are doing everything you can to pay on time.

Find a Buy Here Pay Here Car to Get Started Improving Your Credit Score

If you’re ready to change your life and watch your credit score rise, buying a used car, truck, SUV, or minivan from a reputable buy here pay here dealer could be exactly what you need. Find one in your area of Indiana to get started.

5 Myths About Buy Here Pay Here Car Lots

Quick Auto Shares the Straight Facts on Getting a Quality Used Car Without a High Credit Score

It’s hard to not listen when someone dishes the dirt on someone or something. As humans, we want the tea on everything and everyone. It’s only natural.

But sometimes that rumor is untrue, yet it becomes widely accepted as facts. If anyone has ever gossiped about you about things that didn’t happen, then you know how frustrating it is.

The same can be said for our business. Unfortunately, some buy here pay here car dealerships have gotten a bad rep. Quick Auto is here to debunk the myths about buy here pay here car lots that your friends or family might have told you, so you can begin enjoying the benefits of the truth: a quality, affordable used car, regardless of your credit score.

Myth: Buy Here Pay Here Car Dealerships Only Care About Profits
Some people say that buy here pay here car lots exist solely to make as much money as possible, and we’ll sell a car to anyone who can hand us a down payment. This simply isn’t true.

Buy here pay here dealerships were born out of a need for people just like you to be able to afford a trustworthy vehicle that they can count on for commutes to work, school, and everywhere in between. Quick Auto’s founders saw that many people were unable to buy a vehicle they deserve based on a seemingly arbitrary number that doesn’t actually reflect your ability to repay a loan - yes, we’re talking about credit scores! As a result, our dealerships began offering in-house financing without a credit check.

Like any business, we must make a profit to stay open. But unlike many businesses, we genuinely care about our customers and building relationships with them. That’s why so many of our customers come back when they need another used car, or recommend Quick Auto to friends or family members who could use a better ride.

Myth: All Buy Here Pay Here Loans Have Outrageous Interest Rates
Buy here pay here used car financing interest rates vary based on your ability to pay back the loan, the amount of money you have for the down payment, and the total loan amount. We are required to follow laws regarding interest rates on car loans, just like traditional lenders.

Speaking of traditional lenders - they’ve been raising their rates along with the Fed. This means traditional car loans from banks or credit unions are also coming with higher interest rates than before.

Quick Auto’s rates, however, aren’t driven by the economy. We think that the approach we take is more fair to our customers, especially considering our helpful team members explain every facet of an auto loan, including the total you’ll pay over time, before you agree to purchase a vehicle.

Myth: Buy Here Pay Here Used Cars Are Not Quality Vehicles
Shopping for a used car can feel like a crap shoot. If you look at cars sold by a third party online, you have to take a stranger’s word for how well the car was cared for and the condition it’s in. And when you shop at a automaker-branded car dealership, you’re paying for a markup. Just check Kelley Blue Book car values to see what we mean!

But when you shop at a buy here pay here car dealer like Quick Auto, you can rest assured you’re getting the best possible price we can offer on vehicles that we’ve carefully checked over. Not only do we ensure that all our vehicles are safe and in good working condition, but we also keep an inventory of cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans at a range of prices so that anyone can find a reliable vehicle they can afford.

Myth: Buy Here Pay Here Car Lot Team Members Aren’t Friendly or Helpful
When you think of the stereotypical used car salesman, you think of a slimy, sneaky guy looking to empty your wallet. You might even think of a salesperson who is unkind or short with you when they realize you don’t have a huge budget to drive off in a brand-new Beamer.

At Quick Auto, however, we’re proud that our team members are dedicated to helping our customers. They’re focused on helping customers choose the right vehicle for their lifestyle and budget and getting them behind the wheel quickly. Our team understands that you have things to do, and buying a used car shouldn’t take all day.

Myth: There Are No Good Buy Here Pay Here Car Lots Near Me
Finding a buy here pay here dealership you can trust may seem hard. But if you live in Indiana or Michiana, then you’re lucky to have seven Quick Auto locations close by. Find a location near you in Hammond, Elkhart, Portage, South Bend, La Porte, Highland, and Mishawaka. Browse local inventories - or all of them together - on the Quick Auto website.

Have questions about the buy here pay here process or whether you will be approved for an auto loan? Contact our buy here pay here car lot near you for more information. We’re happy to help!

A Walkthrough of Our Financing Approval Process

Follow These Steps at Our Buy Here Pay Here Dealership to Drive Away in a Nicer, Newer Car Today

Indiana, Illinois, and Michigan residents who live near our seven buy here pay here dealerships and have challenged credit are in luck: Quick Auto makes it easy to buy a nicer, newer car in as little as 60 minutes.

The old adage about things being too good to be true doesn’t apply here. By streamlining our financing approval process and never wasting time with credit checks, we save our customers time and money when they shop at Quick Auto.

Join us for a walkthrough of our simple auto loan process so that you’re prepared to buy a vehicle within the next hour.

Step One: You Gather Your Documents

The first step toward buy here pay here financing approval is for you to complete at home. All you have to do is gather:

• Your government-issued photo identification card, such as your driver license.

• Copies of your most recent pay stubs from all sources of monthly income.

• A utility bill showing proof of your home address. The bill must be no more than 30 days old.

Then, bring these documents to the Quick Auto buy here pay here dealership location nearest you. Find us in Hammond, South Bend, Highland, Elkhart, La Porte, Mishawaka, or Portage, Indiana, near the Illinois and Michigan borders.

To speed up the process, fill out our financing application online before you visit today. If you have a cosigner, they will need to provide the same documents listed above. Remember to include their information on your application.

Step Two: We Review Your Documents for Financing Approval

When you arrive at our dealership, one of our helpful team members will sit down with you and review your documents. They’ll complete a few mathematical calculations to determine the in-house loan amount to approve you for and ask you about the size of down payment you can make.

Our loan calculations consider only your monthly income and do not include checking your credit score. This is because we don’t believe that your credit score is an indicator of your ability to repay a loan. We also believe that everyone should be able to get financing approval on a reliable vehicle, regardless of whether they have a challenged credit history.

Step Three: We Explain Your Buy Here Pay Here Financing Plan Options

Within a few minutes, we’ll have you approved for an in-house auto loan. Our team member will explain your payment plan options. This includes your monthly or bi-monthly payment, your interest rate, and the total you’ll pay for the vehicle if you make all your payments on time.

During this time, be sure to ask any questions you have about your approved financing. Your goal is to ensure that you fully understand your options. Our team member will be completely transparent about your loan terms because they are truly dedicated to helping you get behind the wheel of a reliable vehicle.

Then, our team member will show you the vehicles on the lot that fit within your monthly payment and down payment range. This ensures you know your options and don’t fall in love with a car, truck, or SUV that wouldn’t be the right fit for you.

Step Four: You Sign a Purchase Agreement

After you’ve chosen a used car from our buy here pay here dealership, our team member will draw up the final purchase agreement for you, with the payment plan terms you agreed to earlier in the process.

Review your purchase agreement carefully and ask any final questions you have. Then, sign in the areas the team member indicates. You’ll receive a copy of your purchase agreement and all the other important information you need about your new-to-you vehicle, including details of our 18-month limited protection plan.

Step Five: You Make Payments Directly to the Buy Here Pay Here Dealership

The final step of buy here pay here financing is paying back your auto loan. Because we offer only in-house financing without credit checks, you’ll make your monthly or bi-monthly payments directly to Quick Auto, not a third-party lender. We offer convenient payment options, including an online payment portal. You can also drop off your payment in person or send it by mail.

Remember that although we do not check your credit before extending a financing offer, we do report your payments to the major credit bureaus. If you make on-time payments directly to us, you could see your credit score increase over time.

Don’t Wait to Visit Our Buy Here Pay Here Dealership Location Nearest You
Because we can get you into a used car in as little as 60 minutes, you don’t want to delay visiting our local dealership! Find a location near you and get started on your journey toward car ownership.