Bridgecrest is a subprime auto lender that finances people with poor or limited credit
Bridgecrest is an auto finance company that specializes in loans for people with credit scores below 620 or those with no credit history. Unlike traditional banks, Bridgecrest works with borrowers who have been turned down elsewhere — past bankruptcy, repossession, late payments, or no established credit record do not automatically disqualify you. The company is owned by Santander Consumer USA, one of the largest subprime auto lenders in the country.
Subprime lending means you will pay a higher interest rate than someone with excellent credit would. Bridgecrest loans typically carry rates between 9.99% and 29.99%, depending on your credit profile, down payment, and the vehicle you choose. The loan term usually runs 36 to 84 months. You can explore online, by phone, or at a dealership that partners with Bridgecrest.
Key Takeaways
- Bridgecrest finances people with poor credit or no credit history, but charges higher interest rates than traditional lenders.
- Interest rates range from roughly 10% to 30%, and the actual rate depends on your credit score, down payment size, and the vehicle's age and value.
- You can explore directly through Bridgecrest or through a dealership partner, and the process usually takes a few days to a week.
- Bridgecrest loans include GPS tracking and starter interrupt devices on many contracts, which can disable your car if you miss a payment.
- Making on-time payments to Bridgecrest can help build your credit history, but missing payments carries steep penalties and repossession risk.
How Bridgecrest's interest rates and loan terms work
Your interest rate is not set in stone when you start the process. Bridgecrest calculates it based on several factors: your credit score, the size of your down payment, the age and mileage of the vehicle, and the loan length you choose. A larger down payment lowers your rate because you are borrowing less. A newer vehicle with lower mileage also tends to result in a better rate than an older car.
Loan terms range from 36 months (3 years) to 84 months (7 years). A longer term means a smaller monthly payment but more interest paid overall. For example, a $10,000 loan at 15% interest costs roughly $1,600 in interest over 48 months, but roughly $2,900 over 72 months. Before you sign, ask Bridgecrest for the total amount you will pay — principal plus interest — so you can see the real cost of the loan.
What happens during the process and approval process
You can start an process online at Bridgecrest's website, over the phone, or through a dealership. You will need your Social Security number, proof of income (a recent pay stub or tax return), proof of residence (a utility bill or lease), and a valid driver's license. If you are explore for a specific vehicle, have the vehicle identification number (VIN) ready.
Bridgecrest will pull your credit report and verify your income. The process typically takes three to seven business days. If you are approved, you will receive a loan offer that shows your interest rate, monthly payment, loan term, and any fees. You do not have to accept the first offer — you can negotiate or shop around. Once you accept, Bridgecrest will fund the loan and you can take possession of the vehicle.
GPS tracking and starter interrupt devices on Bridgecrest loans
Many Bridgecrest loans include two technologies installed in the vehicle: a GPS tracker and a starter interrupt device. The GPS tracker allows Bridgecrest to locate your car if you default on the loan. The starter interrupt device can remotely disable your engine if you fall behind on payments, usually after a grace period of a few days.
These devices are legal and common in subprime auto lending, but they carry real consequences. If your starter is interrupted, you cannot drive the car until you make a payment or contact Bridgecrest to arrange one. This can strand you at work or during an emergency. Before you sign, ask whether these devices will be installed and under what circumstances Bridgecrest will use them. Some Bridgecrest contracts allow you to remove the device after a certain number of on-time payments.
Building credit versus the cost of a subprime loan
One potential benefit of a Bridgecrest loan is that on-time payments are reported to the three major credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. If you make every payment on time, your credit score can improve over the life of the loan. This matters because a higher score will lower your interest rate on your next loan or credit card.
However, the cost of building credit this way is high. A 15% interest rate on a $10,000 loan over five years means you are paying roughly $2,000 in interest alone. Before you commit to a Bridgecrest loan, compare offers from credit unions, banks, and other lenders — even if your credit is poor, you may find a lower rate elsewhere. If you do take a Bridgecrest loan, treat it as a stepping stone: make every payment on time, and refinance with a better rate once your credit improves.
What to do if you miss a payment or fall behind
If you miss a payment, Bridgecrest will charge a late fee (usually $15 to $25) and may set up the starter interrupt device if your contract includes one. Your payment will be reported as late to the credit bureaus, which will damage your credit score. If you fall 60 to 90 days behind, Bridgecrest may begin repossession proceedings — meaning they can take the car back without warning.
If you are struggling to make a payment, contact Bridgecrest when ready. Some borrowers are able to negotiate a payment deferment (pushing a payment to the end of the loan) or a loan modification (changing the terms). Waiting until you are already late makes these options less likely. Bridgecrest's customer service number is on your loan documents and on their website.
Alternatives to consider before choosing Bridgecrest
Bridgecrest is not the only option for subprime auto loans. Credit unions often offer lower rates than Bridgecrest, even to people with poor credit — many credit unions have a "second chance" auto loan program. Banks like Wells Fargo and U.S. Bank also finance subprime borrowers. Online lenders and buy-here-pay-here dealerships are other routes, though buy-here-pay-here loans often carry much higher rates and stricter terms.
Before you explore to Bridgecrest, get pre-approved quotes from at least two other lenders. This takes 10 to 15 minutes and does not hurt your credit score (multiple inquiries within 14 days count as one inquiry). Comparing offers side by side — interest rate, monthly payment, loan term, and total cost — can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars over the life of the loan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Bridgecrest loan if I have no credit history?
Yes. Bridgecrest works with people who have never borrowed before. You will need proof of income and a valid driver's license. Your interest rate will likely be higher than someone with a good credit history, but you can build credit by making on-time payments.
What is the minimum down payment for a Bridgecrest loan?
Bridgecrest does not publish a minimum down payment, and it varies by loan. Generally, putting down at least $1,000 to $2,000 improves your chances of approval and lowers your interest rate. The larger your down payment, the less you borrow and the less interest you pay overall.
Can I pay off a Bridgecrest loan early without a penalty?
Most Bridgecrest loans do not charge a prepayment penalty, meaning you can pay off the loan early without extra fees. Paying early saves you interest. Check your loan documents or call Bridgecrest to confirm your contract does not include a prepayment penalty before you sign.
What happens if Bridgecrest repossesses my car?
If your car is repossessed, Bridgecrest will sell it at auction. You are responsible for the difference between what the car sells for and what you still owe on the loan — this is called a deficiency. You will also owe repossession and auction fees. Repossession severely damages your credit and can take seven years to fall off your credit report.
How do I remove the GPS tracker or starter interrupt device?
Some Bridgecrest contracts allow removal after a set number of on-time payments, often 12 to 24 months. Check your loan documents or contact Bridgecrest customer service to ask about removal options. If removal is not included in your contract, you may be able to negotiate it as part of a loan modification.