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Home / Financing / Can’t Afford a Car Right Now? Here Are Your Options

Can’t Afford a Car Right Now? Here Are Your Options

Wondering how to buy a car when money is tight? Hicks Family Subaru in Corpus Christi, TX, shares practical tips to help you afford a car — even if you’re low on cash.

If you’ve been thinking, I need a car but can’t afford one, we want you to know: you’re not alone. And you’re not without options. Whether you’re replacing an aging vehicle, making room for a growing family, or simply need a dependable car for your daily life, figuring out how to buy a car without money upfront can feel overwhelming.

At Hicks Family Subaru, we believe everyone deserves a vehicle they can rely on — and we’re here to help you navigate the journey with understanding, flexibility, and real solutions.

1. Build a Budget That Supports Your Life

Your first step isn’t picking the car. It’s understanding what you can afford without stretching yourself too thin.

Know Your Monthly Limits

Aim to keep your monthly car payment under 10% of your take-home pay. When you add in gas, insurance, and maintenance, total car costs should ideally stay below 15-20% of your monthly income.

What About a Down Payment?

If you’ve been wondering, “How can I afford a new car without a lot saved up?”, you’re not the only one. While a down payment (typically 10-20%) can help lower your monthly payment, Hicks Family Subaru offers flexible financing options. Our team can help you explore the right fit for your situation.

Use Payment Calculators

Online car payment calculators let you see how different prices, down payments, and loan terms affect your monthly costs. If you want personalized help, our finance team is ready to guide you through every step.

2. Look at Certified Pre-Owned and Used Cars

When you need a reliable car but your budget is tight, Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) and used vehicles are a smart solution.

Hicks Family Subaru offers an excellent selection of CPO Subaru vehicles that come with a detailed multi-point inspection and warranty, giving you confidence in your purchase. We also stock quality used cars under $15,000, so you can find something that fits your life and your wallet.

3. Check for Special Offers and Incentives

Stretch your dollars further by taking advantage of dealership offers. At Hicks Family Subaru, we regularly provide:

Our current specials could make a car more affordable than you think, so check often or ask our team what’s available.

4. Use Financing to Spread Out Payments

If you don’t have money saved up, financing can help you get the car you need now and pay for it over time.

Benefits of Financing Include:

  • Breaking the cost into manageable monthly payments
  • Accessing newer or higher-quality vehicles you might not afford with cash alone
  • Building or improving your credit score through consistent, on-time payments

Our finance experts are here to help, no matter your credit background. You can even apply online for pre-approval, so you’re ready to explore vehicles as soon as you visit.

5. Trade In Your Current Vehicle

Your old car, even if it’s seen better days, still has value. Trading it in is one of the fastest ways to reduce the cost of your next Subaru.

  • Lower Your Loan Amount: The trade-in value is applied directly to your new purchase.
  • Save Time and Hassle: Skip private sales and let us handle the details.
  • Combine with Offers: Trade-ins often work alongside Subaru financing deals to maximize your savings.

Use our online trade-in tool to get a quick estimate before you come by.

6. Bring a Co-Signer for Added Support

If you’re worried about loan approval due to a limited or shaky credit history, a co-signer can make all the difference.

A co-signer with strong credit can:

  • Improve your chances of approval
  • Help you qualify for better loan terms and rates
  • Reduce your monthly payments

Make sure to choose someone you trust and who understands their role, as they share responsibility for the loan.

7. Consider Shared Ownership

If buying a car solo feels out of reach, teaming up with a partner, family member, or friend to co-own the vehicle can help share the financial load. Unlike a co-signer, shared ownership means both parties are equal owners, splitting both payments and benefits.

This works best when both owners have clear agreements about how the car will be used, maintained, and paid for.

Hicks Family Subaru Is Here to Help You Drive Forward

At Hicks Family Subaru in Corpus Christi, we understand that needing a car but feeling like you can’t afford one is a stressful spot to be in. But we’re here to help you find the right solution — whether that’s through flexible financing, budget-friendly used cars, trade-in support, or special incentives.

Visit Hicks Family Subaru to explore your options, schedule a test drive, or talk with our team about how we can help you afford the car you need, even if money is tight.

Hicks Family Subaru

3615 South Padre Island Drive
Corpus Christi, TX 78415

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