What credit score do I need for an auto loan?

Most lenders require a minimum credit score of 580–620 for auto loan approval. However, borrowers with scores of 700 or higher typically qualify for the best interest rates. Even with bad credit, some lenders specialize in subprime auto loans.

What is the average auto loan interest rate?

As of 2026, average auto loan rates range from 5% to 8% for borrowers with good credit (700+). Borrowers with fair credit (600–699) typically see rates between 9% and 14%, while subprime borrowers may face rates of 15% or higher.

Can I refinance my auto loan to get a lower rate?

Yes. Auto loan refinancing is a smart move if your credit score has improved since you took out the original loan or if interest rates have dropped. Many lenders offer refinancing with no fees, and you could save hundreds or thousands over the life of the loan.

Best Auto Loans for 600 Credit Score (March 2026)

Q: How long should my auto loan term be?

Most auto loans range from 36 to 72 months. A shorter term means higher monthly payments but less interest paid overall. A 60-month loan is the most common balance between affordable payments and total cost.

Q: Should I get pre-approved for an auto loan before visiting a dealership?

Absolutely. Getting pre-approved gives you a clear budget, a baseline interest rate to compare against the dealer's offer, and stronger negotiating power. Pre-approval from a bank or credit union typically takes minutes online.

600

Poor-Fair Credit Range

Auto Loans Options at This Score

What to Expect

At this score range, you'll qualify for some products but with higher rates and stricter terms. Subprime lenders are your primary option.

WiseIQ Expert Tip

Get pre-approved for an auto loan before visiting a dealership. Pre-approval gives you negotiating power and protects you from dealer financing markups that can add $1,000–$3,000 to your total cost.

Rate Impact

Expect rates 5–12% above prime borrowers.

💡 Top Tip for 600 Credit

Dispute any errors on your credit report — even one removed negative item can push you into the fair range.

Timeline: 6–18 months of positive activity can improve your score significantly.

600 Fair Credit

Last Updated: March 2026 WiseIQ Editorial Team 8 min read

Rate Range

12.99% – 24.99%

Approval Odds

Subprime — limited lenders

Min. Down Payment

10–15%

⚠️ Advertiser Disclosure: WiseIQ is reader-supported. We may earn a commission when you click links to our partners. This does not affect our editorial independence or the rates you receive.

← 580 Browse by Credit Score 620 →

At 600, you have slightly more lender options than at 580. Rates are still high but improving. Focus on getting pre-qualified from multiple lenders to compare offers.

Our Top Picks for 600 Credit Score

Best for Pre-Qualification

Capital One Auto Navigator

APR Range12.99% – 24.99%

Min. Credit ScoreNone stated

Why we recommend it: Pre-qualify without a hard inquiry and see real rates before visiting a dealership. Works well for 600 score borrowers.

Check Your Rate →

Multiple Offers

myAutoloan

APR Range13.99% – 26.99%

Min. Credit Score575

Why we recommend it: Get up to 4 competing loan offers in minutes. The competition between lenders often results in better rates than going direct.

Check Your Rate →

Online Car Buying

Carvana Financing

APR Range14.99% – 27.99%

Min. Credit Score600

Why we recommend it: Carvana's integrated financing makes it easy to buy and finance in one place, with no-haggle pricing and 7-day return policy.

Check Your Rate →

Frequently Asked Questions

What APR can I expect with a 600 credit score for a car loan?

Expect APRs between 13–25% at 600. This is still in subprime territory, but meaningfully better than 580. Shopping multiple lenders is essential to find the best rate.

Will a co-signer help with a 600 credit score auto loan?

Yes, significantly. A co-signer with good credit (700+) can help you qualify for near-prime rates even at 600. The co-signer takes on equal responsibility for the debt.

How long should my auto loan term be at 600 credit?

Keep it as short as you can afford — 48 months or less. Longer terms lower monthly payments but dramatically increase total interest paid at high APRs.

Sources & Methodology

WiseIQ's editorial team researches and fact-checks all content using primary sources. Our recommendations are based on independent analysis and are not influenced by advertiser relationships.

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) — regulatory data and consumer guidance
Federal Reserve — Consumer Credit Report (G.19) — interest rate benchmarks
AnnualCreditReport.com — official free credit report access
myFICO Credit Education — credit score methodology
Lender and issuer websites — rates, terms, and eligibility verified directly from source

Last reviewed: April 2026 | How we rank products

Best Auto Loans for a 600 Credit Score

Capital One Auto Navigator

myAutoloan

Carvana Financing

Sources & Methodology

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