SHIFT HAPPENS AUTO SALES

Yes! Shift Happens Auto Sales specializes in bad credit auto financing. We work with lenders who understand that credit challenges happen - job loss, divorce, medical bills, or past mistakes shouldn't stop you from getting reliable transportation. We approve customers with credit scores as low as 400 and work to find financing solutions for almost any situation.

Absolutely! First-time buyers are welcome here. Whether you're a newcomer to Canada, a recent graduate, or simply never had credit before, we can help you get approved and start building your credit history. Many of our lenders have programs specifically designed for first-time buyers with no established credit.

Yes, you can get financed after bankruptcy or consumer proposal. We work with lenders who specialize in helping people rebuild after financial hardship. Whether you're currently in a proposal, recently discharged from bankruptcy, or still working through the process, we have options available. A vehicle loan can actually help rebuild your credit faster.

Collections and judgments don't automatically disqualify you. We understand that life happens, and we work with lenders who look at the whole picture - not just your credit report. Many customers with active collections, charge-offs, or past judgments have been approved through our financing programs.

When you finance through us, your payments are reported to the credit bureaus (Equifax and TransUnion). Making your payments on time builds positive payment history, which is the biggest factor in improving your credit score. Many customers see their scores improve by 50-100 points within the first year of on-time payments.

Five factors primarily drive the rate: your credit score tier, the size of your down payment, your debt-to-income ratio, the age and value of the vehicle, and the loan term you choose. A larger down payment is often the fastest lever — it reduces the lender's risk exposure and can move your rate down noticeably. Income stability and the vehicle's loan-to-value ratio are weighted heavily by subprime lenders. We review all five factors when structuring your application to find the most competitive rate available for your profile.

A co-signer is not always required. Many of our customers get approved on their own based on their income and ability to pay. However, having a co-signer with good credit can help you qualify for a larger loan amount or better interest rate. We'll review your application and let you know the best path forward.

Down payment requirements vary based on your credit and the vehicle. Some customers qualify with zero down, while others may need $500-$2,000 or more. A larger down payment can help you get approved, lower your monthly payments, and reduce your interest costs. Trade-ins count toward your down payment too!

Prime-credit buyers (scores 720+) unlock our lowest available rates, the highest approved loan amounts relative to vehicle value, and the widest vehicle selection since high-value units sometimes require stronger credit profiles. They also benefit from our full lender network — including institutional lenders who compete for well-qualified buyers — rather than being limited to the subprime tier. If you have strong credit, you can expect a fast approval and financing terms that compete with most banks.