Frequently Asked Questions
SmartRide offers an innovative in-house financing program with no credit checks. Our process is simple and easy and we are here for you. You can find answers to some of the most common questions about our program below.
Finance & Approval
We understand bad things can happen to good people, and we believe your credit score shouldn’t determine your future. We work with customers with distressed credit every day. At SmartRide what is important is that you have a job or income that can support your payments.
We consider most forms of income in our approval process – including Social Security, Disability, and VA Benefits.
No. Our approval process is based on simple factors like your income and ability to make your payments. We work with you.
Yes. We report to TransUnion. You can help repair your credit by being a good payor!
Payments & Down Payments
Payment dates are always on Friday’s and they are customized to align with your pay schedule. They can be weekly or every other week.
We offer different payment methods to meet our customer’s needs:
- AutoPay – We will automatically charge your debit card on file on your payment date. This is our most popular method and does NOT have any associated extra fees.
- Call Us – You can call our Customer Center to make your payment over the phone and we will run your card. This method does have a small convenience fee associated with it.
- Cash & Money Orders – We do accept cash & money orders thru our partnership with PayNearMe. You can make your payments at Wal-Mart, CVS, 7-Eleven and it is very convenient. This method also has a small convenience fee associated with it.
Down payments vary based on several factors, such as the year, make, and model of the car you select. Down payments start around $1500 for our entry level vehicles. Down payments and weekly payments are clearly listed on our inventory page and we have a no-haggle policy!
Yes. Many customers choose to put extra cash down on their vehicle in order to make their weekly or bi-weekly payment more affordable. Just mention this to your advisor and they will help you work out the details.
Acceptable forms of payment for down payments include:
- Cash
- Debit Card
- Money Order
- Bank Check
Credit cards and personal checks are NOT accepted for down payments or weekly payments.
Our Vehicles
We offer a wide variety of quality, newer vehicles. What you won’t find in our inventory are commercial vehicles like work trucks, or muscle cars. We specialize in sedans, hatchbacks, and small SUV’s. These are dependable vehicles that will not have expensive repairs for you to make.
YES! This is one of the best parts of our program. Each vehicle we have comes with either a factory warranty (our newer models) or a comprehensive powertrain-plus warranty that covers all of the major components like engine, transmission, a/c etc….for the entire length of your loan! You will never have a big repair bill to worry about!
Our vehicles go through an extensive 180-point quality inspection to get a comprehensive look at how the car operates and looks. Technicians fix issues uncovered in the inspection, perform needed maintenance and every vehicle is thoroughly cleaned and detailed. Every car meets or exceeds state inspection requirements, and we ensure it is road ready and looks like new.
Yes, we accept trade-ins under certain conditions. You will need to visit your local SmartRide location to see if your vehicle is eligible for a trade-in.
Process & Documents
To get started, you can complete this online pre-approval or visit your nearest SmartRide location. You will need to provide a valid driver’s license, proof of income, and proof of residence. Once approved, our advisors will help you pick out the best car that meets your needs and fits your budget.
Bring the following items with you to fast-track your vehicle selection.
- Proof of income
- Proof of residence
- Valid drivers license
- Proof of insurance
You can use the following documents dated within the last 30 days for proof of residency:
- Utility bill
- Cable bill
- Cellphone bill
- Bank Statement
- Pay stub
- Credit card statement
- Social Security , SSI and disability statements
- Medical bill
- Rental agreement
You must use documents dated within the last 30 days that can support your stated income. These can be your most recent paystub with year-to-date income, bank statements, or Social Security Award letters.
No, you must have a valid driver’s license from your resident state. Your driver’s license will also assist with the title and registration. If you do not have a driver’s license, visit the Department of Motor Vehicles for information on how to obtain one.
Valid Government Issued Picture Identification is acceptable for co-lessee, if they are not eligible to drive the vehicle and do not have a valid Driver’s License.
You have full-coverage insurance on the vehicle that includes the following before you drive the vehicle away:
- $500 or less deductible
- SmartRide LLC listed as Lessor
- Lessee listed as a driver
Full insurance requirements see HERE
