1) The first step in getting a bad credit car is to be realistic. Many car shoppers get frustrated when trying to find a car with bad credit because expectations are set too high with respect to how much money a bank will lend them.

Also, keep in mind that when buying a bad credit car that some car dealerships will hold paper or finance the vehicle for you.

Lastly, very seldom will a dealership let someone with bad credit finance a new or used car with no money down or a zero deposit.

2) Utilize a car dealership that specializes in bad credit car financing. The banks and lenders these dealerships work with are better prepared to help poor credit - bad credit car shoppers. They may also be more flexible with regard to down payment and requirements than traditional banks.

3) You will need to bring along copies of a paycheck, drivers license, electric bill, phone bill, or other bill that validates employment and your residential address.

In addition to these items you may need copies of a bank statement, car insurance, and personal references. In some cases with car shoppers that do not have a personal checking account, some lenders will accept a debit card account in order to start a loan for a bad credit car.

4) Once you bring all the required information to us we will start looking at some cars while we work on financing. Be up front with the amount of down payment you can really afford. Once the lender and dealer determine your lending level you can finalize or narrow down your car choices and interest rate for your bad credit car.

5) Don't be alarmed at the initial interest rate. Many times a lender can put you into a program that will allow you to refinance your car after 12-24 months at a lower interest rate. This will also allow you to start establishing or rebuilding your credit.

In closing, remember, be realistic with your expectations, and stay away from dealerships that claim they can get you into a car with zero down and zero out of pocket. Ask for references of other bad credit customers they have helped.

Additionally, if you have bad credit or poor credit, the last thing you need is another debt or payment you cannot handle.