Having bad credit doesn’t make you a bad person, but it sure can seem that way when you try to get money. If you are trying to get a car to get to work, you’re trying to be responsible and get out from the mire of credit problems, but if nobody wants to help, your situation gets worse.

Fortunately, in this day and age there are ways to get car loans on bad credit, so long as you keep a few pieces of advice in mind.

You Are Not Alone

Almost 25% of Americans have poor credit. Keeping this in mind can help you relax and enable you to focus on what you need to do, to get financed. After all, many people with bad credit get auto loans every day. Why shouldn’t you?

Accept the Facts

It is likely that when you get a loan, you will be paying higher interest than someone with ideal credit. However, this does not mean you don’t have options. Many companies might even specialize in loans for people with poor credit.

Take advantage of these situations. Remember, car loans are secured against the value of the vehicle, which makes them easier to acquire than personal loans.

Be Practical

Go for an economy car, perhaps a compact sedan that gets really good gas mileage and is a company’s lower-priced model. Research dependable cars that are low price and shoot for these. This will show responsibility and increase your available loan options.

Monitor Your Credit Report

You are entitled to a free copy of your credit reports from all three major monitoring agencies, once per year. Take advantage of this and take whatever steps you can to clean up the black marks on your report. There may be small things you can easily clean up, or even mistakes you can have removed. Paying close attention to your credit report is vital to improving your status.

Shop Around

You’ll find that there are many companies willing to offer bad credit loans. Do your research. Look companies up on the Better Business Bureau website. Check out customer reviews. Compare loan offers. There are companies out there that are less-than-honest and prey upon those in need. Be sure that if a company specializes in bad credit loans, that they are forthright and have a history of customer service excellence.

Compare rates from several companies if you can—this will ensure that you get the best bang for your buck, and don’t think that just because you have bad credit means you can’t get multiple quotes.

Remember, just because you have bad credit doesn’t mean you can’t buy a car. Bad credit auto loans, if used right, can put a car well within your reach. Just do your homework and know that you might pay higher rates. Be responsible with choices, and compare quotes. Before you know it, you’ll be on the road!