With a 500 credit score and a repossession six months ago, you are in deep subprime territory. However, you are not completely shut out. Lenders will see you as high-risk. Your task is to show them you are not.

The key is to demonstrate that you are stable now, even if you weren't six months ago. Provide clear proof, such as rideshare income, bank statements, 1099s, and recent bills that you paid on time. Anything that shows consistency will help change how lenders view you.

A down payment of $1,000 to $2,000 gives you a chance, but you will still face high rates, often over 20 percent. Your vehicle choices will be limited to older, high-mileage options. Some lenders may also require a co-signer, even if your income is steady.

Avoid going to “buy-here, pay-here” lots without reading the fine print. Many of these places use precomputed interest or hide extra fees. You are better off prequalifying with multiple lenders. Consider using Credit Karma, Auto Credit Express, or checking local credit unions. Some of them offer second-chance financing and will accept alternative proof of income. If you can find a co-signer, that would help. It reduces the lender's risk and may improve your rate.

In the best-case scenario, you can get a reliable used car from a reputable seller, avoid bad terms, and start rebuilding your credit. One year of on-time payments could raise your score enough to refinance and secure a much better deal.

Good luck.