Frequently Asked Questions

Can't find what you're looking for? Find out the answers to our common questions below! If you can't find what you're after, please contact us and we'll be more than happy to help you out.

How do I apply for a loan with C1 Car Loans?

It couldn't be any easier to get started with us and hop into your new set of wheels in no time. Just simply fill in and submit our application form in less than 10 minutes. Our application is 100% online and will only ask a few questions and request some documents from you. Our team will then assess your borrowing power and provide you with a pre-approval to help kickstart your search. Once you've found your car, we will handle the rest, leaving you to drive away with peace of mind.

What do I need to apply?

We're all about making the process of buying a car easier. That's why we've made our application form as hassle-free as possible. So, there's no need for mountains of paperwork to apply with us. There's just a few things we'll need from you, including: Personal info (i.e. name, address, D.O.B), Contact details (i.e. phone number and email address), 100 points of ID (e.g. driver's licence), Minimum 90-days of bank statements showing regular income or benefits.

Am I eligible?

To be eligible to apply for a loan with C1 Car Loans, there are just a few things that need to be ticked off: Be 18 years of age or older, An Australian citizen or accepted Visa holder, Receiving a regular income, Have Internet banking set up. Please note, other residency statuses are case-by-case and require an Australian licence.

Can I apply if I have bad credit?

Yes, you can! In fact, we happen to specialise in lending to clients with bad credit. This means we don't look at your credit score number as the be-all, end-all. Instead, we prefer to get a better picture of your finances by looking at other factors. As long as you have no finance defaults in the last 6 months or are currently bankrupt, we'll give you a fair go and take a look at your application.

If I am self-employed, can I still apply?

We do not provide business loans or commercial loans, but do provide loans to self-employed clients for consumer purposes. We need 12 months of trading history at a minimum, at least 1 completed tax return for the previous financial year, minimum 90 days of banking for the business accounts Bas statements (if applicable) and ATO/ICA report if applicable.

Can I get a loan if I am a discharged or double bankrupt?

If you are a discharged bankrupt, you only have to wait one day after being discharged before you can apply with us. However, please note that the maximum amount we can lend to you is $20,000. If you are a double bankrupt, unfortunately we are unable to help you.

If I'm in a Part IX (9) debt agreement, can I still apply?

You can apply if your Part IX (9) debt agreement has been in place for at least 6 months with demonstratable repayment history for the most recent 3 months. We do not accept terminated Part IX applicants.

Can I get a loan with Centrelink-only income?

Unfortunately, we do not accept applicants with a Centrelink-only income.

I am receiving my income from the Department of Veteran Affairs (DVA). Can I apply?

Yes, we are able to process applications for those who are receiving DVA income.

Can I apply if I have a learner's licence?

If you have a learner's licence, you need to be due to transfer to your provisional licence prior to settlement or have a joint applicant who has an open licence.

Do you service boarders or people renting privately?

We can accept applicants from boarders but we will need to speak to your landlord to verify the residential information you have provided us.

Do we service rural and remote locations?

Australia is a BIG place. While you might be living outside our 'normal' lending boundaries, this doesn't automatically exclude you from obtaining a loan with us. However, there might be some restrictions. Before submitting an application, we recommend giving our friendly and helpful staff a call to check.

If I'm from New Zealand, can I still apply?

We can assess you for a loan as long as you have at least 12 months of credit history in Australia and at least 90 days of bank statements in Australia.

Do I need to be living in a fixed location to apply?

Unfortunately, we are unable to offer you a loan if you aren't currently living in a fixed location, such as a caravan park.

Can I get a loan if I am in financial hardship?

If we find that you are experiencing signs of financial hardship during the course of our assessment process, we will not be able to lend to you. If you are currently experiencing financial hardship, there are free resources available to help you, including the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007.

How much can I borrow, and for how long?

Here at C1, we offer quick and easy car loans from $10,000 up to $35,000 with loan terms up to 5 years. After you submit an application with us, our team will do an assessment to ensure the loan amount is right for your financial situation.

How long does it take to get approved?

We use smart technology and aim to give you a free quote in usually less than 24 working day hours from having received a completed application. However, if additional questions or documentation need to be obtained it could take a little longer. If you are approved and accept your loan with us, we can provide a fast turnaround and offer same day settlements once the vehicle has been found.

Will you check my credit score?

Yes, but we will usually check with you before doing so. C1 Car Loans understands that most of its clients are trying to rebuild their credit rating and this is why we won't do a credit check until we are confident we can lend to you.

What is a bad credit car loan?

A bad credit car loan is designed for people who have a poor or bad credit history and need financing to buy a car. Typically, borrowers with bad credit can find it difficult to be approved for a car loan from traditional lenders, such as banks or credit unions.

How do I know if I have bad credit?

Whether you've been rejected by other lenders or you're not sure what your credit score is looking like, it can be handy to check your credit report. You can request a free copy (once every 3 months) from one of three credit bureaus in Australia: Equifax, Experian, or Illion.

Can I get finance pre-approval?

Absolutely! We can provide you with a free quote in usually less than 24 working day hours so you can understand your borrowing power and help take the stress out of buying your new car.

Do I need to put down a deposit for a bad credit car loan?

We don't require you to put down a deposit if you're approved for a bad credit car loan. However, if you want to offer a deposit, this might allow you to buy a car with a higher amount.

What happens after I'm approved?

Congrats! Once you've been approved, we'll send through a loan contract for you to read and if happy with the terms and conditions, sign it and send it back to us. After this, the approved vehicle will be funded as soon as possible, and you can go pick up the car keys. The first repayment will come out from your next pay day after your loan is approved. You can then access and manage your active loan through our Client Portal.

When will I own my car?

During the term of your loan, we will take security over your car. As soon as you have paid your loan out in full, the car is officially yours.

What types of loans do you offer?

C1 Car Loans provides secured asset loans mostly to purchase a vehicle. However, we can look at other assets (such as motorcycles, caravans, and boats) but keep in mind that these must have another asset to secure the loan against. We also provide secured loans for debt consolidation.

Can I buy a new or used car with your loan?

We can still process your application, regardless of whether it's a brand-new set of wheels or a pre-loved car that you're after.

What are the fees and charges?

The fees and charges applicable to your loan will depend on a bunch of factors. Here at C1 Car Loans, we believe in transparency. We promise to always be open and transparent - what you see is what you get. No hidden fees, fine print, or agendas. It's completely free to apply with us and get us to help you find a great deal. If you do decide to go ahead with us, we will provide you with a credit guide that outlines all your fees and charges applicable to your loan.

Do you offer debt consolidation loans?

Yes, we do offer debt consolidation loans with the security of an acceptable asset. The original debts must have originally been over $2,001 and not have been taken out or redrawn within the past 90 days. Please contact our team for further information and to see if you are eligible for a debt consolidation loan.

Do you offer joint or guarantor loans?

We can facilitate a joint loan but we don't do guarantor loans. For a joint loan, each applicant will be assessed and, if approved, both are liable for the repayments and outstanding debt.

Are you able to pay out balloon payments owing on my current vehicle?

Yes, we can help you with refinancing balloon payments for your current car loan/s.

Are you able to pay out my novated lease?

We sure can! C1 Car Loans can assist with novated leases and taking ownership of your vehicle.

How do I access my loan account?

To access and manage your existing loan with C1 Car Loans, all you need to do is head over to our Client Portal on our website and enter your login details.

How do I pay off my loan?

It couldn't be easier to pay off your loan with us. We set up a direct debit for when your repayments are due so that you don't have to worry about setting reminders. Typically, we'll set up your direct debit on the day of your payday - whether that's weekly, fortnightly, or monthly.

Can I pay off my loan early?

We do not charge any early termination fees at any point in your loan.

If I think I'm not going to make my repayment, what should I do?

If you think you will have trouble making your repayments, please get in touch with our team as soon as possible. After all, we're here to help. Just call us on 1300 732 520 and we'll work with you to come up with a solution.

Get a car loan up to $35,000

If you are looking for a new or a used car, from a private seller or car dealership, C1 Car Loans could help*!

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*Subject to approval. Terms and conditions apply.