Car Loans And Average Credit Scores Parker CO

Q: I need a new car! Right now, I will take a used car! Currently, I have a 1995 Dodge Neon which is giving me problems. The problem is as a college student with a credit score in the 630-650 range and a monthly income at best $1,000-$1,300 range with credit card debt and a total minimum payment of $25 a month...financing is a problem. I don't know where to turn or what to do!!!! 

A: "First things first."

Do you need a new car? As a college student, can you survive until graduation using public transportation, a bicycle, walking, and getting rides with friends and using your current car only when absolutely necessary to save on wear and tear? As a student, the last thing I'd want to see you do financially, especially on a relatively low income, is to get locked into a car loan or lease for 5 years or more.

If you decide that you must purchase another vehicle, you first need to understand why your credit score is down between 630 and 650 - not bad - but not great either. Have you had some negatives like late payments reported on your credit reports?

I suggest you go to annualcreditreport.com and get copies of your three credit bureaus for free if you have not seen them in a while. We will also send you a free copy of our new book, "CreditBooster: Ultimate Guide to a Better Credit Score," which will help you understand what your credit reports are saying about you and give you easy to follow action steps to begin to improve your credit score right away....