FOLLOW US Follow us on social media
Car Loans Online
Australian Online Car Loan Specialists.
Car Loans Online :: Articles

5 Credit Killers

What are the top factors that can damage your credit score?

5 Credit Killers

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

A good credit score speaks volumes about your financial habits. It's the evidence most creditors need to evaluate your credit worthiness.
Interestingly, there are some credit killers that even people maintaining good credit scores would unwittingly be a part of, which will be their undoing when applying for credit facilities in the future.
These mistakes may seem to be insignificant, but when the time comes, you may face more problems than you expect.

Avoiding Debt

Creditors need to evaluate your financial history to approve any credit facilities.
If you have no previous or existing debts, it might adversely affect your case, as creditors have no way of checking out how you'll handle the credit you get from them.

Shopping For Rates

Looking around for the best rate may actually turn out to be bad.
Debt Stressed?
Image for Debt Stressed?If you're struggling to pay your debts and covering living expenses, we're here to help. Through our national panel of Debt Management specialists, we can help customers with $10k or more in debt by consolidating your existing loans, stopping Debt collectors from contacting you and re-negotiating repayments on your terms!
... start your free debt analysis ...
Too many inquiries within a short period could damage your credit score.
Usually, if you do more than 3 or 4 inquiries within a single month, you are likely to scare the lenders. For the same reasons, transferring the balances on your credit cards could be a bad idea as well.

Assuming There's a Grace Period

If you are late on a payment by even one day, you are late, period.
Never assume there's a grace period for late payments, because it only affects your credit score negatively.

Closing Old Accounts

Because your relevant transaction history also gets erased when you close your old accounts, your credit history is shortened and it may lower your credit score.
If you want to close your old accounts, close everything except the oldest account, which will leave a longer history.

Co-signing Loans

The obvious problem here is that the primary borrower's mistakes will end up on your credit report as well.

Published: Sunday, 1st Aug 2021
Author: Paige Estritori

Rate this article

Sign in with Google to rate

0 Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.


Car Loans Articles

The Importance of Comparing Car Loan Rates Before Buying a Vehicle
The Importance of Comparing Car Loan Rates Before Buying a Vehicle
When purchasing a vehicle, understanding car loan interest rates is a critical aspect that can significantly affect your overall financial commitment. But what exactly are car loan interest rates, and why should they matter to you? - read more
Navigating Your Credit Score: How It Affects Your Car Financing Options
Navigating Your Credit Score: How It Affects Your Car Financing Options
Understanding your credit score is a key part of navigating the world of car financing. Whether you're looking to buy your first vehicle or you're an established buyer considering an upgrade, your credit score can significantly impact your financing options. In this section, we'll delve into why your credit score is so essential and provide a primer on how it's calculated. - read more
10 Car Finance Traps Every Australian Should Steer Clear Of
10 Car Finance Traps Every Australian Should Steer Clear Of
When it comes to financing a car, the importance of vigilance cannot be overstated. Navigating through the maze of loan offers and financial jargon can be overwhelming, making it all too easy to overlook critical details that could cost you dearly in the long run. - read more
Your Essential Guide to Documentation for Car Loan Success
Your Essential Guide to Documentation for Car Loan Success
In the journey to securing a car loan, understanding the importance of proper documentation is a crucial first step. Proper documentation not only saves time but also significantly boosts your chances of approval. Lenders pay close attention to your paperwork, using it to gauge your financial reliability and commitment. - read more
Don't Sign Yet! Checklist for Negotiating Car Loan Agreements
Don't Sign Yet! Checklist for Negotiating Car Loan Agreements
Embarking on the journey to purchase a new car is an exhilarating experience, full of the promise of fresh adventures and the satisfaction of ownership. Yet, beneath the sheen and thrill, important financial decisions are at play, particularly when it comes to your car loan agreement. Understanding the importance of negotiating the terms of your car loan cannot be overstated, as a savvy deal can lead to significant savings over time. - read more
5 Essential Steps to Build a Strong Credit Profile for Car Financing
5 Essential Steps to Build a Strong Credit Profile for Car Financing
Building a strong credit profile is crucial when it comes to securing car financing. In today's financial landscape, your credit score can significantly impact the kind of loan offers you receive, making it more important than ever to maintain a healthy credit report. - read more
Car Loan Hidden Charges: What Australians Need to Watch Out For
Car Loan Hidden Charges: What Australians Need to Watch Out For
Australians have a variety of car financing options at their disposal when the time comes to purchase a new vehicle. From dealer finance to personal loans and leasing agreements, the variety of choices can be both empowering and, at times, overwhelming. Opting for a car loan is a common route, giving buyers the ability to spread the cost of their new set of wheels over time. - read more

Finance News

Toyota Boosts Australian Supply with 10,000 Extra Vehicles in 2026
Toyota Boosts Australian Supply with 10,000 Extra Vehicles in 2026
05 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori
In a strategic move to address growing consumer demand and intensifying competition, Toyota Australia has secured an additional 10,000 vehicles for the 2026 market. This increase elevates the company's full-year sales forecast to 220,000 units, with popular models such as the RAV4, HiLux, and the all-electric bZ4X set to benefit from the expanded supply. - read more
Money3 Penalised $1.55 Million for Responsible Lending Violations
Money3 Penalised $1.55 Million for Responsible Lending Violations
05 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori
In a significant ruling, the Federal Court has ordered Money3 Loans Pty Ltd to pay penalties totaling $1.55 million for breaching responsible lending obligations in the provision of car finance to vulnerable consumers. This decision underscores the critical importance of adhering to responsible lending practices within the financial services industry. - read more
Electric Vehicles Capture 20% of Australian New Car Sales in May 2026
Electric Vehicles Capture 20% of Australian New Car Sales in May 2026
05 Jun 2026: Paige Estritori
In May 2026, electric vehicles (EVs) achieved a significant milestone in the Australian automotive market, accounting for 20% of all new car sales. This development underscores a rapid shift in consumer preferences towards more sustainable transportation options. - read more
Chinese Car Brands Unveil Competitive EOFY Finance Offers in Australia
Chinese Car Brands Unveil Competitive EOFY Finance Offers in Australia
29 May 2026: Paige Estritori
As the end of the financial year (EOFY) approaches, Chinese automotive brands are intensifying their efforts to capture a larger share of the Australian market by introducing a series of aggressive finance deals and incentives. Geely, Omoda-Jaecoo, and JAC have each launched tailored promotions aimed at both private buyers and tradespeople, offering a range of benefits from ultra-low finance rates to complimentary accessories. - read more
Electric Vehicles Capture Record Market Share in April 2026
Electric Vehicles Capture Record Market Share in April 2026
21 May 2026: Paige Estritori
In April 2026, electric vehicles (EVs) achieved a record-breaking milestone in the Australian automotive market, accounting for 16.4% of all new car sales. This significant increase underscores the growing consumer shift towards sustainable transportation options. - read more
Upcoming Changes to Electric Vehicle Tax Discounts in Australia
Upcoming Changes to Electric Vehicle Tax Discounts in Australia
21 May 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian government has announced a phased reduction of tax discounts for electric vehicles (EVs), aiming to balance fiscal sustainability with the promotion of sustainable transportation. This decision is expected to influence the affordability and adoption rates of EVs in the coming years. - read more
Subaru Launches Uncharted AWD Electric SUV in Australia
Subaru Launches Uncharted AWD Electric SUV in Australia
21 May 2026: Paige Estritori
Subaru Australia has officially opened pre-orders for its inaugural dedicated electric SUV, the Uncharted AWD. Priced at $59,990 plus on-road costs, this launch marks a significant milestone in Subaru's commitment to sustainable mobility. - read more
Click for more Finance News

Need Help Finding a Loan?
Get a free car loan eligibility assessment and compare offers tailored specifically to your circumstances.
Loan Amount:
Postcode:

All quotes are provided obligation-free by a participating broker from our national referral partner network. We respect your Privacy.

All finance quotes are provided free (via our secure server) and without obligation.
We respect your privacy.

Knowledgebase
Hard Inquiry:
A credit report check by a lender or other entity as part of the credit approval process, which can lower your credit score.


This website is owned and operated by Clark Family Pty Ltd (ACN 010 281 008) as Trustee for the Clark Family Trust (ABN 35 957 893 714), 43 Larch Street Tallebudgera QLD 4228. Clark Family Pty Ltd is an Authorised Representative (AR 1298860) of Unique Group Broker Services Pty Ltd (AFSL 509434) for financial product referrals and an Authorised Credit Representative (ACR 401491) of Saccasan Pty Ltd (ACL 386297). Check our licensing details on the ASIC registers: Clark Family Pty Ltd ACR, Clark Family Pty Ltd AR, Saccasan Pty Ltd, Unique Group Broker Services.
IMPORTANT: We act solely as an introducer and refer enquiries to licensed third-party brokers, insurers, and lenders. We do not provide financial product advice or credit assistance. We may receive a fee or commission from these third parties in consideration for the referral. Before any action is taken to obtain a product or service referred to by this website, advice should be obtained (from either the third party to whom we refer you or from another qualified intermediary) as to the appropriateness of obtaining those products having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs. Whilst we have our own process for validating the legitimacy of our referral partners, you should independently verify the credentials and licensing of any adviser or provider you engage. Visit the ASIC website for further information.