If you’ve been turned down for car finance in the past or have a low credit score, it’s easy to assume that an online broker is your only option.
In reality, using a trusted local dealership is often the best way to get approved for car finance when you have poor credit.
This guide explains why dealership finance works better than online brokers, how it improves your chances of acceptance, and why so many drivers in Bristol and North Somerset choose dealer finance when their credit history isn’t perfect.
✅ Quick Answer: Is Dealer Finance Better for Bad Credit?
Yes. Dealer finance is usually the best option for people with poor or bad credit because:
Dealers work with specialist sub-prime lenders
Applications are reviewed manually, not automatically
Finance can be tailored to your situation
The car and finance are approved together
You get help from real people, not algorithms
🚗 What Is Bad Credit Car Finance?
Bad credit car finance is designed for people who may have:
Missed or late payments
Defaults or CCJs
Low credit score
Previous IVA or debt management plans
Limited credit history
Self-employed income
Dealerships like Tickenham Garage Car Sales work with lenders who specialise in these situations — something most online brokers do not do well.
💷 Why Online Brokers Often Reject Bad Credit Applications
Online brokers rely heavily on automated credit scoring systems.
This means:
Applications are often rejected instantly
No human review
No consideration of your current situation
No flexibility
High decline rates
Even if you could afford the car, the system may still say no.
🤝 Why Dealership Finance Works Better for Poor Credit
1️⃣ Access to Specialist Bad Credit Lenders
Dealerships work with lenders who:
Accept low credit scores
Consider recent improvements
Look at affordability, not just history
Understand self-employed income
These lenders are not available to the public.
2️⃣ Manual Review Instead of Automatic Rejection
When you apply through a dealership:
Your application is reviewed by a person
Circumstances are considered
Proof of income can be explained
Past issues can be accounted for
This significantly improves approval rates.
3️⃣ The Car Helps Secure the Finance
Dealer finance links the loan to the vehicle itself.
This reduces lender risk and:
Improves approval chances
Reduces required deposit
Helps secure better terms
Online brokers often assess finance without even knowing which car you’re buying.
4️⃣ Honest Advice (Not Sales Pressure)
At Tickenham Garage Car Sales, customers receive:
Clear advice on what’s realistic
Help choosing affordable vehicles
Guidance on deposit size
Support structuring monthly payments
There’s no pressure to apply for finance that won’t be approved.
5️⃣ Higher Acceptance Rates Than Online Brokers
Because dealerships:
Match you to the right lender
Structure the deal correctly
Avoid unnecessary credit searches
You’re far more likely to be approved than through an online broker.
🔧 Vehicle Checks & Warranty Included
Another major benefit of dealer finance:
✔ Vehicle inspected
✔ MOT where required
✔ Warranty options
✔ After-sales support
With online brokers, you only get finance — not protection.
⭐ FAQs
Can I get car finance with bad credit?
Yes. Many lenders specialise in bad credit, especially when applying through a dealership.
Will applying affect my credit score?
A dealership can often use soft searches first, reducing impact.
Is dealer finance more expensive for bad credit?
Not necessarily. Dealer finance avoids broker fees and may offer better overall value.
Can I improve my credit by financing a car?
Yes. Making payments on time can help rebuild your credit score.
📍 Bad Credit Car Finance in Bristol & North Somerset
If you’re struggling to get approved online, don’t give up.
At Tickenham Garage Car Sales, we help customers every week who:
Have been declined elsewhere
Have poor or limited credit
Are self-employed
Need honest, practical advice
Our goal is simple: help you get on the road with finance you can afford.
📞 Apply for Bad Credit Car Finance Today
✔ No judgement
✔ Fast decisions
✔ Friendly local service
✔ FCA regulated finance
✔ No hidden fees
📍 Based in Bristol & North Somerset
🚗 Quality used vehicles
💷 Flexible finance options