Can you have two cars on finance?

Roman Danaev

27 August 2024

Yes, you can finance two cars at the same time, but it depends on your financial situation.

Lenders will assess your ability to afford multiple car loans before approving a second one. The more debt you take on, the lower your affordability rating, which might make it harder to secure additional finance.

When applying for a second loan, your lender will consider how well you manage your existing debt and whether your income can cover both payments. It’s essential to borrow only what you need and can realistically repay, as too much finance can make you less attractive to lenders.

In some cases, finding a lender willing to finance two cars under a single name can be difficult. However, some lenders offer the option of joint applications, or you might be able to finance different types of vehicles, like a car and a motorbike, under separate agreements. Always read the terms and conditions of your finance agreement to understand your obligations.

How many cars can I have on finance at once?

You can finance multiple vehicles at the same time, but how many depends on your financial situation, credit history, and what you can realistically afford. While some people manage two or three car loans without a problem, the exact number will vary for everyone.

Lenders have different rules. Some might allow you to finance several vehicles, while others may not. At Carplus, you can apply to finance multiple vehicles, as long as you meet our criteria and pass our affordability checks.

If you’re applying on your own, you can finance a car, motorbike, or van with us. However, it’s important to know that you can’t finance two cars under a single-applicant application. Understanding these details helps you make better decisions and ensures you don’t overstretch your finances.

Lenders want to be sure you can comfortably manage your loans while still covering your essential expenses. That’s why responsible lending is about offering finance options that truly match your budget, so take a close look at your finances before taking on multiple loans.

Does having two car loans affect your credit score?

If you can comfortably manage the monthly payments, having two car loans can be a viable option. While your credit score might experience a slight dip initially, making timely payments will help it recover quickly.

Can I finance 2 cars with bad credit?

Financing two cars with bad credit is tough and usually not an option. Taking on more debt can lower your credit score even further, making it harder to get approved for another loan. Although regular payments might help your score recover over time, most lenders are hesitant to approve a second loan when your credit is already low.

Getting approved for a second car loan

There are several factors that lenders look at when evaluating your application. Here is what they consider in making a decision on whether or not to approve you.

Your credit history

Your credit history plays a crucial role in whether you’ll be approved for another loan. Lenders will assess your credit score and repayment history to determine your eligibility. A strong credit rating and a stable income are essential for qualifying. If your credit score is low, securing a second loan will be very difficult. While past approval doesn’t guarantee future success, having good credit and a steady income should make it easier to finance a second car.

Income verification

When you apply for a loan, lenders need to see proof of your income to ensure you can repay the loan. They want to be confident that you won’t default, meaning you fail to make payments. Most lenders will check that you have a steady income and can comfortably afford the monthly payments.

Your debt-to-income ratio

Another key factor lenders consider when you apply for a second car loan is your debt-to-income ratio. If your debt accounts for 50% or more of your income, you may struggle to get approved, even if you earn a good salary. However, each lender has its own criteria. Some may accept a debt ratio as high as 42%, but it’s crucial to understand your specific lender’s requirements.

Lender risk

Lenders view borrowers with two car loans as a higher risk. They worry that if you stop making payments on one loan, you’ll still have another car to rely on. This makes lenders cautious, as they see the possibility of defaulting on one loan as more likely when two are involved.

Increase your chances of being approved for second car finance

To improve your chances of securing additional finance, start by setting aside money for a deposit. A larger deposit reduces your monthly payments and makes your application more appealing to lenders.

It also helps to space out your applications, so lenders don’t view multiple attempts negatively.

If your credit rating is poor, focus on rebuilding it before applying. Pay off any outstanding debts or set up payment plans to address defaults. This will significantly enhance your chances of getting approved for a second car loan.

Contact our brokers for assistance

While it’s possible to have two car loans simultaneously, certain requirements must be met, and each case can differ.

If you have questions about car finance or want to know if you’re eligible for a second loan, it’s best to consult the experts at Carplus. Give us a call, and one of our specialists will gladly assist you.