Considering car finance?

Here’s everything you auto know

Whether you’re buying new or used, financing the purchase is an option that’s easier to access than you think

A convenient way to purchase

With flexibility in repayment frequency and loan terms, you can manage your next car purchase to suit you.
Discover your full buying potential

Your dream car might not be out of reach. Expand your shortlist by understanding what you can afford.
Effectively manage your cash flow

Spread the cost of your car across fixed payments that you can budget for and keep your savings for when you need it.

Finance offers by brand

Mercedes-Benz

Audi

Toyota

Mazda

Nissan

Land Rover

Mitsubishi

Volkswagen

BMW

Hyundai

Kia

Suzuki

Know your options

All options come with pros and cons- so it pays to do your research.

Banks & Credit Unions

Car loans, personal loans, home equity and mortgage refinancing can all be used as a source of funds to purchase your next car.

Car loans typically have fixed repayments for a fixed period – these are usually secured loans
Personal loans are usually unsecured and do not encumber the car itself as collateral
New and used car buyers with equity in property can refinance or redraw to purchase a vehicle

See options with banks & credit unions

Dealer Finance

Whether you are purchasing a new, demo or used car, car dealerships often present a range of convenient options.

From simple car loans to more structured novated lease arrangements that include all running costs
For new and demo vehicles, often the car finance is linked to a manufacturer’s own finance company
Special offers on new vehicles or runout incentives can be attractive in terms of value for money

More about dealer finance

Finance Brokers

As an expert mechanic makes your car run smoothly, so too car finance experts can make buying easier.

These providers can help negotiate finance deals on your behalf and source your vehicle
Finance brokers can access varying types of car finance products to suit different buyers
They can often present a range of options and do the running around for you – at a cost!

Learn more about finance brokers

Leasing & Commercial

There are a range of car leasing and commercial finance options open to private and company buyers of new and, with some limitations, used cars.

Typically you don’t own the car, so the upfront and monthly payments are often lower than for a car loan
Novated leases are a popular option as they include all running costs and can be salary sacrificed
Chattel mortgages are another option and see the financier provide the funds and assume ownership

See leasing & commercial options

Finance articles

How do I pay for a used car?

The deal is done, but what’s the best way to pay for a second-hand car?

How to write a receipt when selling your car

Why a simple piece of paper could protect you from big trouble when buying or selling a second-hand car

Is there a cooling-off period when buying a used car?

And can you change your mind after the deal has been done?

One month to go before Instant Asset Write-Off deadline

Generous business vehicle tax break to be drastically wound back from July 1

Seven reasons why you should choose a novated lease

Take the hassle out of car ownership while potentially saving time and money with a novated lease

How long does it take to get a personal loan?

Once you’ve fallen in love, it’s hard to wait. So, how long could it take until you and your new car can be one

How to save money on car finance

Here, thanks to Driva, are six tips to save money on your car loan

Five reasons why getting finance pre-approval is crucial

Wondering whether it’s worth getting finance pre-approval? Here are five reasons why it’s a must!

Frequently asked questions

Can you get car finance with bad credit?

Your credit history and credit rating or credit score will have a bearing on whether you will be approved for car finance and the sort of interest rates and fees you will pay. A bad credit score does not necessarily mean you cannot get a car loan, but you may have to pay a higher interest rate and/or use a guarantor. Some finance providers specialise in securing finance for car shoppers with poor credit histories.
What do you need for car finance?

To obtain car finance you will need to demonstrate the ability to repay the loan and also prove your identity and other details. We have detailed the normal type of documentation you require to get a car loan in our article 'How do I finance my car?'.
What happens if you can’t make your car finance repayments?

Taking out car finance is a serious commitment. With a secured loan, defaulting on repayments may see the vehicle or security repossessed. In the case of an unsecured loan the lender can still pursue legal remedies to recover unpaid monies from you. If you have trouble servicing a loan, you can contact the lender and discuss the situation or obtain advice via the federal government’s MoneySmart website.
Can every dealer on carsales provide finance offers?

Most of the new and used car dealers on carsales can facilitate finance solutions for car buyers. Some advertise indicative finance offers and repayment rates alongside their vehicle listings on carsales.com.au. For more information on dealer and manufacturer car finance read our 'Dealership and/or Manufacturer finance' article.
Do all manufacturers offer finance packages?

Almost all new car brands have finance offerings for customers. In fact, many new car brands have their own finance arms which provide finance solutions tailored to their different buyer and vehicle types.

In many cases, new car brands’ sales are very much driven via special new car finance offers.

For more information on dealer and manufacturer car finance read our 'Dealership and/or Manufacturer finance' article.
I own my own business – can I take advantage of business rates?

Many new car brands offer special car financing options for business owners and operators. In many cases ABN holders can secure lower interest rates or special repayment conditions and/or special model discounts.
What are the benefits of financing your car?
While paying from your savings is almost always the cheapest way to buy a new car, financing the purchase can provide a number of benefits including:
- Flexibility in repayment frequency and loan terms
- The option to set a final balance payment and reduce repayments
- Ability to effectively manage your cash flow and build the fixed repayment cost into your budget
- Potential to claim tax deductions if using the vehicle for business purposes
As always, however, it is important that you weigh up the additional costs related to financing a car against the perceived or actual benefits.
What alternatives are there for car financing?

There are many options to consider when financing your car. Common options include: bank and credit union loans (secured and unsecured), mortgage refinancing, dealer finance, specialist auto lenders, novated lease, operating lease, commercial hire purchase and chattel mortgage. And these all have pros and cons. You can find out more via our finance articles.
Can I sell my car before it is paid off?

The short answer is yes, but there is a process you must follow. For more information read our article on How to sell a car that is not paid off.

DISCLAIMER: This information is general in nature and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Each of these options may be subject to exclusions and limitations and you should always read the terms of any finance deal before agreeing. carsales.com Limited does not warrant the accuracy, timeliness or completeness of any representations made in the document or that the material is suitable for any purpose. Opinions expressed within carsales’ linked articles are those of the writer and not necessarily of carsales. You are responsible for assessing the material and seeking your own legal or financial advice. To the fullest extent permitted by law, carsales excludes all liability for loss or damage incurred in connection with your use of or reliance on the material contained in this document. For further information, see carsales’ Terms and Conditions .