At a glance

- Availability
- Affordability
- Customer Experience
- Transparency
About LightStream
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Loan amount
Varies by lender
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Min. credit score
Accepts all credit types
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APR from
Not specified
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Funds available in
Varies by lender
Loan amount
Varies by lender
Min. credit score
Accepts all credit types
APR from
Not specified
Funds available in
Varies by lender
Here’s a quick breakdown of what CarsDirect offers.
Co-signers allowed
Ability to shop for vehicles on site
Co-signers allowed
Poor customer reviews
Down payment may be required
Not transparent about rates and terms
CarsDirect is not a direct auto lender but rather a marketplace that presents drivers with loan options directly from its network. Within its network, it has lenders that will work with drivers who have poor credit or those with no credit history at all. Its site enables drivers to finance and purchase their vehicle all at once. You can search for new and used vehicles available in your area directly on site.
Unfortunately, CarsDirect holds negative reviews across the board when it comes to user experience. Although there is no Better Business Bureau review present, reviews on Trustpilot are overwhelmingly low, falling under the poor category. Pay close attention to potential high rates and trouble with site navigation when looking for a loan through CarsDirect.
Consider these benefits and drawbacks of shopping for your next auto loan through CarsDirect.
The best candidate for CarsDirect is a driver with less than perfect credit who wants to do their shopping and financing in one spot. After submitting your application, CarsDirect will match you with lenders that may offer you competitive rates — with or without excellent financial history.
The site also enables direct vehicle purchases for new or used vehicles in your area. If you are just beginning your vehicle buying journey, CarsDirect can be a good place to start.
CarsDirect offers loans for new or used vehicles, refinancing and lease buyouts. Since CarsDirect hosts a marketplace, and is not a lender itself, the specifics of each loan vary depending on your matched lender.
The specific rates and terms for a new or used auto loan found through CreditDirect will vary by lender. But with the car buying process being directly integrated with the site, it can be a seamless way to find a vehicle from a local dealer while also securing vehicle financing.
Through CarsDirect, drivers can also refinance their current loan. Although rates and terms are not available, the site encourages borrowers to consider refi if they are looking to lower their monthly payments or secure a lower interest rate. Along with this, CarsDirect outlines the fact that those with credit scores of 500 or better will receive the most favorable terms.
The process of lease buyout is not disclosed by CarsDirect. But it recommends that you have a credit score of 600 or higher.
CarsDirect does not disclose lending terms, and availability will vary with each lender. But, according to its website, CarsDirect encourages drivers to consider the benefits and drawbacks of a short-term versus a long-term loan. Taking out an auto loan with a shorter term will mean higher monthly payments, but a long-term loan means more interest accrued.
The process of searching for an auto loan through CarsDirect is simple. The site advertises a 60-second application experience and the ability to drive your next vehicle in as soon as 24 to 48 hours. Before starting the application gather the following information:
According to CarsDirect, the process is broken down into four main steps.
CarsDirect does not disclose specifics on requirements to refinance due to the wide range of lenders. Consider checking out current refinance rates to determine which lender can save you the most money.
CarsDirect offers online chat on its website, direct email and phone support. It doesn't, however, list its business hours on the website.
While CarsDirect gets a number of positive reviews on Trustpilot, it holds a middling score overall with the site.
Overall score | 3.7 | |
Availability | 4.0 | CarsDirect offers several loan options but does not disclose specific loan amounts or repayment terms. |
Affordability | 3.8 | While CarsDirect partners with bad credit and bankruptcy lenders and there is no application fee, APR is not disclosed. |
Customer experience | 3.8 | Online reviews were primarily negative and customer service is only available Monday to Friday in a range of specific hours. |
Transparency | 3.0 | CarsDirect serves as a loan broker so does not hold transparency when it comes to the availability of fees and rates. |