Shopping for a car can feel overwhelming—especially when you're dealing with bad credit or have been denied financing in the past. At Auto Works in Greer, SC, we’ve made it our mission to simplify the vehicle approval process for buyers in Greenville, Spartanburg, Simpsonville, and surrounding areas. Whether you’re buying your first car or trying to get back on your feet financially, we make it possible—and easier than you think.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how the approval process works at Auto Works, from your very first application to driving off the lot with your next vehicle.

Step 1: Submit Your Application

Everything starts with your application, and at Auto Works, we give you two simple ways to begin:

  • Our quick Pre-Qualification Form lets you find out where you stand with zero obligation.

  • Our full Credit Application gives us everything we need to begin reviewing your situation and get you fully approved.

Both forms are secure, fast, and designed to help us understand your budget—not just your credit score.

Step 2: We Review Your Current Financial Picture

Unlike banks or credit unions, we’re not obsessed with your credit report. Instead, we focus on the whole picture, including:

  • Your income

  • Time on the job

  • Residence history

  • Stability and ability to pay

Even if you’ve had bankruptcies, repossessions, or no credit at all, you still have a great shot at approval.

That’s why we say yes when others say no.

Step 3: Choose the Right Vehicle for Your Budget

Once we have your approval in place, we’ll walk you through our Inventory. Our sales professionals will help you choose the right car, truck, SUV, or crossover based on:

  • Your loan approval terms

  • Your budget and monthly payment goals

  • Your needs (commuter, family, utility, etc.)

We never push you into something you can’t afford. Instead, we custom-fit the vehicle selection to match your financing.

If we don’t have what you’re looking for on the lot, use our Vehicle Locator Tool and we’ll help find it for you.

Step 4: Finalize the Loan Terms

This is where the Auto Works difference really stands out. Unlike traditional dealerships that pass you off to third-party lenders, we handle the financing in-house.

That means:

  • Lower down payment options

  • More flexible payment plans (weekly, bi-weekly, monthly)

  • Fast paperwork processing

  • Clear terms with no hidden fees

Use our Loan Calculator to estimate your payments and see how much vehicle you can afford before you even step foot in the dealership.

Step 5: Trade-In (Optional) and Down Payment

Have a trade-in? Great. We’ll evaluate it fairly and apply the value to reduce your down payment or total loan amount. Use our Trade-In Tool to get a rough idea of what your vehicle may be worth.

Don’t have a trade? No problem. We offer affordable down payment options and even layaway programs to help you lock in your vehicle while saving toward your upfront costs.

Step 6: Drive Away Happy

Once we finalize the paperwork and review your terms, the keys are yours.

Most customers complete the process and drive off the same day they apply.

We’ll even show you how to:

  • Set up payment reminders

  • Access our Make a Payment portal

  • Understand how your on-time payments will be reported to credit bureaus and help rebuild your credit over time

What to Bring with You

When you’re ready to finalize your approval, make sure to bring:

  • Valid driver’s license

  • Proof of income (pay stubs, bank deposits, benefits)

  • Proof of residence (utility bill, lease, etc.)

  • References (personal or work-related)

  • Trade-in title or payoff information, if applicable

Have questions? Call or visit us—our Store Info page has everything you need.

FAQs

1. How long does the approval process take?

Most approvals are completed in under an hour. Many customers apply, get approved, and drive away the same day.

2. Can I apply online and finish in-store?

Yes. You can start online and complete the final steps at our dealership when it’s convenient for you.

3. What if I have bad credit or no credit at all?

That’s our specialty. We look at your current situation, not just your credit history.

4. Do you report payments to credit bureaus?

Yes. Making on-time payments with Auto Works helps rebuild your credit over time.

5. Can I trade in a car I still owe money on?

Yes. We’ll help coordinate the payoff and apply your trade value toward your next vehicle.

Get Approved Today with Auto Works

At Auto Works, we believe in simple financing, fair approvals, and friendly service. Our team is here to help you every step of the way—from application to keys.

Visit us at 816 W. Wade Hampton Blvd, Greer, SC, or start online now:

Auto Works: Where your next car—and your next opportunity—starts now.