<prompt> Human: Hey guys. Im a 24 year old male, make 35k a year, and have credit score of 530 with two accounts in collection for a total of 300. My 20 year old car just gave out at 220,000 miles. Ive saved up 1,000 over the last 3 months of bumming rides and borrowing my dads extra car occasionally. Its just not working for me anymore and I really want to get a car. I was wondering if maybe I could go somewhere and get approved for a 3,000 loan to buy a good reliable car off Craigslist, is that even a thing? I tried to apply for a car loan with BofA and was denied. Could I just use the 1,000 as a down payment and make payments on a similarly priced car at one of those dealerships that specialize in bad credit, or would I most likely get ripped off? What would you do in my situation? The least debt I have to get into, the better. Thanks in advance.  <response>: I work for a buy here pay here dealership. What you may consider a ripoff is a whole other fact on the other side of the table. With a 530 credit score, and accounts in collection and your age - its no secret that you are considered a high risk. You shouldnt be worrying about a deal you should be hungry to prove that you are capable of keeping a commitment. At a 1000 down you should be able to get an older car in the 120,000 mile mark with a limited mile warranty. That traditionally covers transmissions and engines. The interest will be high but youll have a vehicle to get you to and from work and youll be able to build your credit. 