Getting approved
Car Finance with a CCJ: What to Know
Yes, a CCJ doesn't rule you out — here's how it affects your options and the cost.
Yes, you can get car finance with a CCJ, though it narrows your choice and raises the rate. A County Court Judgment stays on your credit file for six years and tells lenders you've had trouble repaying, so specialist lenders and a higher APR are the usual route. A satisfied (paid) CCJ looks better than an unpaid one.
A CCJ isn't the end of the road. See what you could realistically borrow with the free eligibility estimate — no credit check, no impact on your file.
How car finance works with a CCJ
With a CCJ, you'll usually borrow through specialist lenders who accept adverse credit, often with the car as security. The judgment shapes the rate, not whether finance exists.
A CCJ is a form of bad credit, so the same principles apply: fewer lenders, a higher APR and a closer look at affordability. The older and the more clearly paid the CCJ, the better. Read car finance with bad credit for the full picture.
What it costs and what lenders look for
A CCJ pushes the APR up, so the same car costs more over the term. Paying off the CCJ and rebuilding since helps most.
A satisfied CCJ — one you've paid — reassures lenders far more than an outstanding one. They'll also want to see clean repayments since the judgment. Work out the true cost of any rate on the APR calculator, and compare the total amount payable, not the monthly.
Pay it off where you can
How to improve your odds
You can improve your chances even with a CCJ on file. These steps rebuild trust.
- Pay off the CCJ so it shows as satisfied.
- Get on the electoral roll and keep your details consistent.
- Make every other payment on time to rebuild your record.
- Save a bigger deposit to lower the lender's risk.
- Consider a guarantor to widen your options.
Estimate what you could borrow
Check an affordable figure before applying, with no credit check. This avoids hard searches while you weigh options.
The free eligibility estimate turns a monthly budget into an indicative figure to plan with. It's not a quote — your real offer depends on the lender and a full application.
Frequently asked
Can you get car finance with a CCJ?
How long does a CCJ affect car finance?
Is it better to pay off a CCJ before applying?
Will checking eligibility with a CCJ affect my credit?
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