You may be able to refinance a car loan with bad credit, but you’ll have to apply with lenders that accept lower credit scores. The auto refinance lender on this list with the lowest minimum credit score is OpenRoad. It only requires a score of at least 460.
And if the rate on your auto refinance loan is higher than what you’re currently paying, then refinancing isn’t worth it — unless you’re trying to stretch out your loan term.
If you can’t afford your car loan because your monthly payments are too high, it can make sense to refinance your loan with a similar or even slightly higher interest rate.
To do this, focus on the longest car loan that you qualify for, with the lowest rate. Just know that you will be paying more overall interest. Still, if it keeps your car from being repossessed, the extra interest could be worth it.
If you don’t qualify for refinancing and you’re struggling to keep up with payments, contact your lender and ask if it has a hardship program.
Tip: Consider a co-borrower
If you’re having a hard time getting an auto refinance loan because of bad credit, consider getting a co-borrower or cosigner. A co-applicant is a second person on your refinance loan, and it’s best that they have excellent credit.
Including a co-borrower or cosigner can help you get approved or get a lower rate because it reduces the lender’s risk. If you don’t pay back your loan, they are also responsible. A co-borrower also has equal rights to the car as you, so choose carefully.