Question 1

Can I get a car loan in Ontario with bad credit?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Bad credit car loans are our specialty. DriveAway.ca is a free Ontario lead-generation site that connects you with a partner dealership for auto financing based on your current income and stability — not just your credit score. Every on-time payment helps rebuild your credit.

Question 2

Will applying hurt my credit score?

Accepted Answer

Applying is free and comes with zero obligation. Once you're ready to move forward, a partner dealership completes a standard credit review before anything is signed — and the process is explained clearly before that happens.

Question 3

How fast can I get approved?

Accepted Answer

Most applications receive a decision within minutes during business hours. Once approved, you can often choose your vehicle and sign paperwork the same day. The entire process — from application to driving away — typically takes 24 to 48 hours.

Question 4

What income do I need to qualify?

Accepted Answer

Most lenders look for a minimum verifiable income of about $1,800 per month before taxes. Employment, self-employment, pensions, disability benefits (ODSP), EI, and CPP/OAS all generally qualify as income.

Question 5

Do I need a down payment?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. Many of our approvals are $0 down, on approved credit. A down payment or trade-in can lower your monthly payment and improve your rate, but it's never a barrier to applying.

Question 6

What documents will I need?

Accepted Answer

Typically just a valid Ontario driver's licence, proof of income (recent pay stubs, bank statements, or benefit statements), a void cheque or pre-authorized debit form, and proof of residence. Your approvals specialist will confirm exactly what's needed for your situation.

Question 7

I've been through bankruptcy or a consumer proposal. Can I still apply?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Discharged bankruptcies and active or completed consumer proposals are often eligible for financing through a partner dealership. A car loan is actually one of the fastest ways to re-establish credit after insolvency.

Question 8

Do I get to choose my vehicle?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Once you're approved, a partner dealership matches your budget to available vehicles — sedans, SUVs, trucks, vans, and EVs. You always approve the vehicle and the terms before signing anything.

Question 9

Is there a fee to apply?

Accepted Answer

No. Applying is 100% free with no obligation. If you decide the approval isn't right for you, simply walk away — it costs you nothing.

Question 10

Do you serve my area?

Accepted Answer

We serve every community in Ontario — from Toronto, Ottawa, and Hamilton to Sudbury, Thunder Bay, and everywhere in between. Vehicles can be delivered to your door in most regions.

Frequently asked questions

The fastest answer is a real approval