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While there is required to buy a car, your score is the primary factor in determining your eligibility and interest rate. Most lenders approve borrowers with a FICO score of 501–600 (subprime) , though approvals are far more common at 661 or higher (prime) . Credit Score Tiers & Estimated Rates (2026)
Lenders group borrowers into tiers to assess risk. In early 2026, roughly of financed cars went to borrowers with scores above 661. Credit Tier Score Range Avg. New Car APR Avg. Used Car APR Super Prime Prime Near Prime Subprime Deep Subprime Source: Experian Q4 2025 data, reported in early 2026 . How Scores Impact Your Wallet credit score needed to buy a car
