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.
Your first step isn’t picking the car. It’s understanding what you can afford without stretching yourself too thin.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
Use our online trade-in tool to get a quick estimate before you come by.
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:
Make sure to choose someone you trust and who understands their role, as they share responsibility for the loan.
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.
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.