<prompt> Human: In February of this year, I purchased a used, low mileage Buick. Remember the stars aligning? I had 5,000 as a down payment, which came via savings, a portion of financial aid, and selling my current vehicle. I am high risk due to my current school loans low interest rate, high ratio. still in school, and medical bills. My credit store hovers around 575-595. My girlfriend, however, has a thin file and is a bit lower than mine.Well, we got into a wonderful car, that I loved dearly. Even with my astronomical interest rate, I was still paying only 222 dollars. I could afford it, the car had under 50k miles, it ran beautifully, and it was one of my biggest accomplishments - finally, something I didnt buy off a corner, or from craigslist. It wasnt new, but it was the nicest thing I ever had.Some degenerate saw fit to steal it last week. The payments are suspended for 60 days, and the claim is active which can take up to 90 days. They have to investigate it thoroughly, but honestly theyre buying time, which I understand - they dont want to pay off my balance anymore than I want my car stolen!I was denied by a credit union. I was denied when I foolishly tried to get a new car. I do, however, have a 2015 that I got offered at 800 down, 14 APR, and an affordable though higher monthly payment. The dealer let me take it off the lot, but it is still subject to lender approval. On one hand, I have not put anything down yet, so if they reneg, whatever - it probably saves me from a very stern commitment, but if they honor it, I can still afford it. My girlfriend is looking for a higher paying job She has tenure and qualifications, but she just doesnt make enough and I recently moved to a new job. It looks bad on paper, but I hope to retire from this company one day.What options do I have? Being 24, with bad credit, still in school with more loans on the horizon if i pursue a higher degree how do I avoid craigslist? I know a lot of people have had great luck, but I am 0 for 4, and the peace of mind with warranties, coverage, etc is something I should be able to have...we all have trouble, but I work just as hard as the next guy! It sucks when you make poor decisions and they haunt you. I am working on my finances, but I cannot afford a monthly higher than 475. I just dont get why Im being denied everywhere now.. probably because I dont have 5k!Any help is appreciated, really.  <response>: It sounds like you fell into the trap car salesmen like of focusing on the monthly payment. Almost anything appears affordable if you stretch out the financing long enough.Forget avoiding Craigslist. Youre still in school, it doesnt need to last that long. Get something cheap and build up some savings to prepare for any repairs, rather than going into insane debt 14! just to get a warranty. 