Owning a car doesn’t feel like a luxury but a matter of survival. Cars are part of everyday life, from navigating Joburg traffic to taking the kids to school to hitting the open road on a weekend getaway. But what if your credit status isn’t in the best shape? Or worse, you’re ‘blacklisted’?
Getting car finance won’t be easy, but you have options, and Weelee can guide you through them.
What does being blacklisted mean in South Africa?
Being blacklisted simply means your credit status is poor. This happens when:
- You’ve missed multiple payments on accounts
- You owe unpaid loans or judgments
- Your debt-to-income ratio is too high
Credit bureaus flag you as a high-risk client. As a result, banks and dealerships won’t offer you finance, whether you want to buy a car at Weelee or anywhere else.
The good news: blacklisting is not forever. You can fix it, step by step.
How to check your credit status?
Before stressing, find out where you stand. It’s quick and free.
In South Africa, you can check your credit report with:
These reports show your debt history, current accounts, and repayment record. Knowing your score helps you decide if you’re ready to buy a used car or need to improve your financial health first.
Pro tip: Remember that while it’s advisable to check your credit score, checking on many occasions can harm your credit.
What credit score is needed to buy a car?
When it comes to a credit score to buy a car in South Africa:
- 600+ → Most banks will consider your application
- Below 600 → High risk, chances of approval are slim
- Blacklisted → No finance approval, regardless of score
So, if you’re considering buying a car with bad credit, your best bet is saving cash for something affordable.
Luckily, at Weelee, you’ll find:
- Wholesale prices to the public
- Over 1,000 cars to choose from (including some budget options)
- All vehicles have independent condition reports for your peace of mind
- Low mileage options
- Negotiable prices
Alternative options with Weelee
Buying a car doesn’t always mean traditional finance. Here are some additional alternatives to consider.
Here are alternative options with Weelee:
- Long-Term Rental – Perfect if you want a car without the long-term commitment. You pay a monthly rental, drive the car for 24 months, then simply return it. Proof of income is required, and vehicles are limited to under 10 years old. A deposit may sometimes be required.
- Subscription Model – A flexible way to drive newer cars. With a deposit and minimum income, you can subscribe to vehicles under 3 years old and 80,000 km. Great for personal use, without the hassle of ownership.
- Trade in Your Current Car – Put the value of your current car towards your next one. This reduces the amount you need to finance or save, helping you upgrade without stretching your budget.
How to improve my credit score (and get off the blacklist)
If you’re searching “how to improve my credit score fast?” here are tried-and-tested steps:
- Pay your bills on time (even your cellphone contract counts)
- Settle overdue accounts (negotiate repayment plans if needed)
- Reduce credit card balances (keep below 30% of your limit)
- Avoid new unnecessary debt (no clothing accounts while rebuilding)
- Check your report regularly (spot errors and track progress).
If you’re asking ‘how to get off the blacklist in South Africa’, here’s the process:
- Pay outstanding debts
- Get a clearance certificate from creditors
- Submit proof to credit bureaus
- Wait for your record to update (can take a few months)
It takes discipline, but the sooner you start, the sooner you’ll be back in line for finance.
We help answer your credit questions
1. How to improve my credit score fast?
Start by paying overdue accounts immediately. Reduce your credit card debt and keep making consistent payments.
2. How to get off the blacklist in South Africa?
Begin by settling all outstanding debts. Request clearance certificates and update your credit reports with bureaus.
3. What credit score is needed to buy a car?
Most lenders prefer a credit score to buy a car of 600 or above. Anything less makes approvals tricky.
Being blacklisted is not the end. You have options
Discovering that you’ve got a poor credit score or are blacklisted can feel like a punch to the gut. Use this time to rebuild your credit status; you’ll soon qualify for finance again.
While you can’t get finance right now, you can still buy a used car in cash, trade in your old ride, and shop smart at Weelee Centurion.
Stay disciplined, stay positive, and remember that blacklisting is temporary, but your financial recovery can last a lifetime.
At Weelee, you’re never just another number on a credit report. You’re a valued customer with options.
Even if your credit holds you back today, take the first step toward fixing it tomorrow and keep your dream of owning the right car alive.