Need a car but can’t afford one? Learn how to budget smart, explore financing, and find affordable cars at Hicks Family Nissan in Robstown, TX.
If you’re thinking, I need a car but can’t afford one, you’re not alone. And you’re not out of options. Whether your current ride just gave out or you’re trying to get behind the wheel for the first time, the cost of buying a vehicle can feel overwhelming.
From flexible financing and budget-friendly used cars to trade-in and co-signer support, this guide is here to help you confidently take that next step. Let’s break it down together, because owning a dependable car isn’t out of reach.
Before you step foot in a dealership or scroll through listings, it’s important to figure out what you realistically can spend.
In general, you should spend no more than 10% of your monthly take-home pay on your car payment. You should keep overall car expenses (loan, gas, insurance, maintenance) below 15% to 20% of your monthly income. You’ll want to tighten these numbers if you have other debt or significant monthly expenses.
Putting money down up front lowers your loan amount and your monthly payment. Generally, you should put down 10-20% of the car’s price. So, if you’re purchasing a $12,000 used vehicle, consider putting down $1,200 to $2,400. You may need to wait a few months to save up for this, depending on your current financial situation.
To better understand how a new car can affect your monthly budget, plug your numbers into a car loan calculator and test different scenarios. What happens if you:
Want help? The finance team at Hicks Family Nissan can walk you through it, no pressure.
You’ve been asking yourself, “How can I afford a new car?” — but you may need to redefine what new means. Instead of shopping for a car that’s fresh off the assembly line, consider shopping for a car that’s new to you.
Used cars can be just as reliable as brand-new ones and often come with more affordable price tags. Hicks Family Nissan has a great selection of used cars under $15,000 to help you get behind the wheel of a vehicle you and your budget will love. Some of these vehicles are Certified Pre-Owned, which must meet certain criteria and undergo a rigorous 167-point comprehensive inspection to be certified. They also come with a Nissan Certified Pre-Owned Limited Warranty for extra confidence in your new-to-you vehicle.
Sometimes the right offer makes all the difference when you’re on a tight budget. Dealerships like Hicks Family Nissan regularly offer special deals and offers on new and used vehicles. These deals can include low APR financing, cash-back offers, military incentives, and college grad incentives.
If your bank balance is low, you may be wondering how to buy a car without money. Financing can open the door to car ownership, even when money’s tight.
Here are a few key benefits of financing:
If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry. Financing doesn’t have to be complicated, and you have options regardless of your credit or income. You can even apply for pre-approval before your visit to the dealership.
If you plan to finance a vehicle but your credit score isn’t where you want it to be, you can start improving it now. Even small steps can make a big difference when it’s time to apply for an auto loan.
Here are a few smart ways to build or boost your credit before buying a car:
No matter how old or worn it is, your current vehicle might be more helpful than you think. Trading in your car is one of the easiest ways to lower the cost of your next vehicle and make financing more affordable.
Here’s why a trade-in might be your best first move:
If your credit history is short or your score isn’t where you’d like it to be, getting approved for a car loan might feel like a long shot. But something could change the game: bringing in a co-signer.
A co-signer is usually a trusted family member or friend with stronger credit who agrees to take legal responsibility for the loan with you. This doesn’t mean they’re paying for your car, but they’re promising to step in if you can’t.
Having a co-signer can:
That extra layer of reassurance for the lender can make all the difference, especially if you’re still building credit or working through financial recovery. Just make sure you choose someone you trust and who trusts you in return.
The cost of buying a car on your own can be overwhelming. Sometimes, teaming up with someone you trust, like a friend, partner, or family member, can make car ownership more affordable. Instead of one person taking on the full financial responsibility, you both share the cost, responsibility, and benefits. It’s different from co-signing because both parties are equal co-owners, not just financial backers.
Co-ownership can be a smart option for households or friends with similar commuting needs, but it works best with clear communication and trust.
If owning a vehicle feels out of reach, we’re here to help make it possible. From flexible financing to affordable used options and trade-in support, Hicks Family Nissan offers real solutions for drivers in all financial situations. Don’t let cost hold you back. Talk to our team and learn how we can help you get into a dependable car that works for your budget.
