AFL Website_Car_Equipment

New, used, or electric. Drive away sooner.

Whether you’re after a brand new car, a reliable second-hand vehicle, or making the switch to an EV, Armstrong’s Finance can help you get behind the wheel sooner. Compare car finance across a panel of 18+ NZ lenders in one application.

Why choose Armstrong's Finance for your car loan?

Instead of approaching lenders one by one, you make a single application and we compare car finance across a panel of 18+ NZ lenders. There are no restrictions on dealer or private sales, pricing is set out upfront with no hidden fees, and approved funds can be paid to the seller the same day, subject to lender criteria.

Dealer or
 private sale

There are no restrictions on where you buy. Whether you're purchasing from a dealership or a private seller, our car loans work the same way.

New, used,
 or electric

Our car loans cover brand new vehicles, quality used cars, and EVs and hybrids. Dealer or private sale, we've got
 you covered.

Transparent
 pricing

No hidden fees, no nasty surprises. Everything is laid out upfront.

Fast
 approval

Apply online in minutes. If approved, funds are paid directly to the seller, same day where possible. Subject to responsible lending criteria and lender assessment.

Simple by design

How it works

Getting car finance takes four steps. Get a quick quote online for an indicative estimate of your repayments, submit your application with proof of income and ID, and we compare options across our lender panel. Once approved, the lender pays the seller directly, whether a dealership or a private seller, and you drive away.

1

Get a quick quote

Use our online quick quote tool to see an indicative estimate of your repayments in minutes. It’s obligation-free and won’t affect your credit score, so you can plan your budget with an estimate before you start looking.

2

Submit your application

Once you’re happy with your estimate, complete your application online. We’ll ask for proof of income and ID. The process is straightforward and our team is on hand to help if you get stuck.

3

We go to work for you

As your broker, we submit your application across our lender panel to find the most suitable match for your situation. Subject to responsible lending criteria and lender assessment, once approved the funds are paid directly to the seller on your behalf.

4

Drive away

With finance in place, you’re ready to finalise the deal. The lender pays the seller directly, whether that’s a dealership or a private seller, and you complete the purchase and drive away.

What are you looking to finance?

New cars, used cars, and EVs. We cover them all.

New car loans

Buying a brand new car from a dealership? A new car loan lets you drive away without depleting your savings. We’ll compare options across our lender panel to find the most suitable loan for your purchase.

Apply for a new car loan
AFL Website_Car

Used car loans

A quality used car can offer outstanding value, and we can help you finance one whether you’re purchasing from a dealer or a private seller. Funds are paid directly to the seller, keeping the process straightforward. We assess each application on its own merits to find the best solution for you and your vehicle.

Apply for a used car loan
AFL Website_Car 3

Electric vehicle (EV) and hybrid loans

Making the switch to electric? Our car loans cover EVs, plug-in hybrids (PHEVs), and standard hybrids, new and used. EV finance works like any other car loan. Whatever make or model you have in mind, we can help put the finance in place.

Apply for an EV car loan
AFL Website_Car EV

What can you use a car loan for?

Registration, WOF, and on-road costs
Comprehensive insurance and mechanical breakdown insurance (MBI)
Accessories
Window Tinting
Mag Wheels and Tyres

Am I eligible?

 

Armstrong’s Finance assesses every car loan application individually, so a wide range of New Zealanders can apply, whether you’re buying your first car, upgrading the family vehicle, or switching to electric. You’ll generally need to meet the criteria below.

To be eligible for a car loan, you'll need to:

Be 18 years of age or older
Be a New Zealand citizen, permanent resident, or hold a valid NZ work visa
Have a regular income (employment, self-employment, or other verifiable income)
Have a valid New Zealand bank account
Have a valid form of ID (driver's licence or passport)
Hold a current New Zealand driver's licence (learners, restricted or full)
Meet our credit assessment criteria

Frequently asked questions

  • Can I use a car loan to cover on-road costs as well as the vehicle?

    Yes. You can use your car loan to cover more than just the vehicle itself. Things like registration, WOF, insurance, and other upfront costs can all be included, so you can take care of everything at once.

  • Can I buy from a private seller? 

    Yes. You can buy from a private seller, not just a dealership. Once your loan is approved, the funds are paid straight into your bank account, so you can pay the seller directly. We always recommend checking the vehicle carefully before you buy, just to be safe.

  • Can I get a car loan for an EV or hybrid?

    Absolutely. We can help you get a car loan for electric, plug-in hybrid, and standard hybrid vehicles, whether new or used. If you're buying locally or from around NZ, we'll work with you to find the right finance option.

  • Can I get a loan for a used car?

    Absolutely. You can get a loan for a used car, just like you would for a new one. The age, make, or model of the car won't automatically affect your chances. We'll look at your personal financial situation to assess your application. Whether you're buying from a dealer or a private seller, we can help arrange the finance you need.

  • How much can I borrow for a car?

    The amount you can borrow for a car depends on your personal situation. We'll look at things like your income, credit history, and any other financial commitments you have. Our team will work with you to find a loan amount that fits your needs and your budget, so you can buy the car you want with confidence.

  • What's the difference between a new and used car loan? 

    The process is the same whether you're buying new or used. The main difference is that interest rates can vary depending on the car's age and the lender's criteria, with newer cars sometimes attracting lower rates. Once approved, funds are paid directly to the seller, and we'll take your vehicle details into account when comparing options for you.

  • Can I include registration, insurance, and other costs in the loan?

    Yes. Your loan doesn't have to be limited to the purchase price of the vehicle. Registration, WOF, comprehensive insurance, mechanical breakdown insurance (MBI), and dealer-fitted accessories can all be included in your loan amount, making it easier to cover all your upfront costs in one go. 

  • Can I use a car loan if I'm self-employed? 

    Yes. We work with self-employed applicants regularly. You'll need to provide evidence of income such as recent bank statements or tax returns, and we'll find the lender on our panel best suited to your situation. 

  • How quickly will I receive the funds?

    If your application is approved and meets our lending criteria, we’ll do our best to get the funds into your account on the same day. Timing can depend on your bank and when you apply, so while we aim for same-day funding, it’s not always guaranteed.

  • Will applying affect my credit score?

    No, getting a quote with Armstrong's Finance won't impact your credit score. We only run a full credit check if you decide to go ahead with a formal application, and we'll always let you know before that happens.

  • What is a car loan?

    A car loan is a loan used to finance the purchase of a vehicle, whether new, used, or electric. Instead of paying the full price upfront or waiting until you've saved enough, a car loan lets you buy now and spread the cost over time. Once approved, funds are paid directly to the seller, whether that's a dealership or a private seller, so you can move quickly on the right vehicle. Whether you're buying for yourself or the family, from a dealer or a private seller, Armstrong's Finance works across a panel of lenders to find the most suitable loan for your situation.

  • What car loan interest rates can I expect in NZ?

    It depends on your situation. Things like your credit history, income, how much you're borrowing, and the loan term all play a part. Because we compare options across a panel of lenders, we'll work to find a rate that suits your circumstances. Get in touch with our team and we can talk through what's likely to be available for you.

  • Can I get a car loan with bad credit?

    Yes, it's worth applying. A difficult credit history doesn't automatically rule you out, and different lenders have different criteria. Some are better suited to applicants who've had financial difficulties in the past. We assess every application individually and look across our full lender panel to find the most suitable option for your situation. If you've been turned down elsewhere, it's still worth talking to us.

  • What does pre-approval mean, and should I get it?

    Pre-approval is where a lender confirms how much they're willing to lend you before you've found a car. It's a good idea. It gives you a clear budget before you start shopping and means you can move quickly when you find the right vehicle. 

  • What's the difference between a secured and unsecured car loan?

    A secured loan uses the vehicle as collateral, which gives the lender greater security and typically means lower interest rates for you. An unsecured loan isn't tied to any asset and has no collateral involved, but rates tend to be higher as a result. Most car loans in New Zealand are secured. We will always be upfront about which type of loan you are being offered and what it means before you commit.

  • Can I refinance my car loan?

    Yes. If your current loan no longer works for you, whether the rate is too high or your circumstances have changed, refinancing could help. A refinance loan pays out what you owe and replaces it with a new loan. We can compare options across our lender panel to see whether there's something more suitable available for your situation. Get in touch with our team to find out more.

  • How do I apply for a car loan through Armstrong's Finance?

    It's simple, either call us or submit the online application here on our website. It only takes a few minutes, it's obligation-free, and it won't affect your credit score. Once you're happy with your quote, we will process your full application with you. We'll ask for proof of income and ID, and our team will take it from there. Subject to responsible lending criteria and lender assessment, funds can be processed the same day if approved.

Ready when you are

Apply in minutes. Know your options today.

No obligation. Just a clear picture of what's available to you.

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No obligation. Just a clear picture of what's available to you.

Loan Information 

Armstrong's Finance Limited (FSP1012153) is registered on the Financial Service Providers Register (FSPR) and holds a Class 2 Financial Advice Provider licence and is authorised to provide regulated financial advice services in accordance with the Financial Markets Conduct Act 2013. Armstrong's Finance Limited acts as a finance broker and does not directly provide credit. All lending is provided by third-party lenders on our lender panel.

Remuneration: Armstrong's Finance Limited is remunerated by way of commission paid by lenders. The amount of commission varies between lenders and products. Armstrong's Finance Limited may receive different commission rates from different lenders. We manage this conflict by recommending products based on your individual needs and circumstances rather than the level of commission received. Full details are set out in our Disclosure Statement, which is available on our website and on request free of charge.

Lending criteria apply. All applications are subject to credit assessment, responsible lending inquiries, and individual lender eligibility criteria in accordance with the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act 2003 (CCCFA) and the Responsible Lending Code (revised July 2024). Interest rates range from 7.95% p.a. to 29.95% p.a. Rates are variable unless otherwise stated, are subject to change, and are based on individual credit assessment. Establishment fees vary between $0.00 and $2,500 depending on the type of loan arrangement, and are included in your loan structure and repayments.

Dispute resolution: If you have a complaint that we are unable to resolve, you may refer it to Financial Services Complaints Ltd (FSCL), our approved dispute resolution scheme. This service is free of charge. Contact details are available in our Disclosure Statement and on our Complaints page.

Financial hardship: If you are experiencing financial hardship, you may be entitled to apply for a hardship variation under the CCCFA. Please contact us as soon as possible. See our Financial Hardship page for more information.

Your personal information is collected and held in accordance with the Privacy Act 2020. Please refer to our Privacy Policy for details of how we collect, use, and store your information.