Cars are a necessity in today’s everyday life. Just about everyone is driving to work, school and going on road trips to try and get away from the hustle and bustle of the big city. But what happens when your car breaks down or you are stuck with bad credit and can’t secure your first car?

It can be difficult to secure a bad credit car loan with all the red tape you have to go through. But there are other options to consider if you find yourself in need of a vehicle, but can’t afford it right away.

Fix your car

If you’re already a car owner and have had your vehicle for a few years now, expect the regular wear and tear on your unit. But if you’re the type who isn’t exactly the best in keeping up with its maintenance, the wear and tear could be a lot worse. And if that is the case, maybe it’s best to check your car for any repairs that need to be made or take it to the shop so they can help you assess any parts that need to be replaced.

Doing this before you even consider getting a new car is important as it can also help you figure out the trade in value of your vehicle. Plus, knowing the issues of your car is paramount for when you decide to sell it.

Buy a new car

So, let’s say that your car does need to retire but your wallet says you can’t afford a new unit. What do you do?

There are several ways for you to get a new car while on a tight budget and here are a few of them that you can consider:

Public Transport. An option often overlooked because of its inconvenience, is public transport. If you live in a big city this is recommended as there is bound to be a bus or train schedule you can follow. But if public transport isn’t a viable option from where you live, you can consider renting a car. Renting is more affordable as you’ll be free from paying insurance and can let you save up some of your extra money for a new car.

Buying a used car. Another option to purchasing a beater car. This is a car that’s designed to be driven every day and to be used in every way. Plus, they are much more affordable, so you never have to worry about making car payments for the next few years. But of course, make sure that the engine is in good condition before paying for it. This can save you a lot of headaches in the future.

Car Lease. A car lease is considered to be a more doable option than car finance.  When you lease a car, the dealer can provide you a new car every time your lease is up. The downside to this is that it can be very expensive if you break your lease. With that said, consider your income before you make the decision to lease a car. If your job is stable enough and your income is steady and will only become better in the coming years, then this is definitely a good choice for you.

Think about all of your available options and stick to the one that you are most comfortable with. Take care of your finances so you can drive away in a car that should be good for the next 5 to 10 years.