If you are in debt review and you see an advert offering car finance for people who are blacklisted or in debt review, you should be very careful.

Adverts like these on social media often promise fast approval or easy payments. They create the impression that people in debt review can get a new car even though that's not true.

What you may be looking at could be an outright scam or maybe some sort of misleading rent to buy contracts that may carry high costs and not be what you think it is.

Before you get your hopes up of driving a new vehicle you should always do your homework and get all the facts. You should definitely also talk to your debt counsellor before pursuing any such big decisions about your finances.

Let's look at why such offers are very, very tempting and what options you really have.

When You Need A New Car

The desire for a better, newer car is very normal, especially if the car you currently have is showing its age.

The old car may be breaking down all the time and repairs may be costly. The car may no longer suit the family if you have had kids or a similar dramatic change of circumstances.

Some people drive long distances to work and need something more reliable. Others may simply feel embarrassed or stressed because their car looks old and worn out.

For most drivers a car is more than just transport. It affects job security, family routines and confidence. When your vehicle becomes unreliable, the pressure feels immediate and very personal.

This is why those adverts catch your eye. They speak directly to a real need. They seem to offer to solve a real problem.

Sadly, such offers are simply not possible.

The Reason You Can't Get New Credit While In Debt Review

The National Credit Act does not allow new credit while a person is under debt review.

This includes all sorts of credit. It includes car finance, new credit cards, store accounts, personal loans and even an overdraft. Once you enter debt review, your goal is to pay down your debt, not take on new debt

To take on new debt would be going backwards, getting further from your goal and undoing all the progress made.

Because of the laws around reckless credit the banks cannot offer you new credit

Now, this can feel frustrating, especially when your car becomes unreliable. It may feel like life is on hold. But the rule exists to make sure you finish debt review successfully without slipping back into debt.

So what can you do?

Look After Your Current Car

Since you cannot take new credit until you finish up your debt review, you really have to focus on making sure the car you currently have keeps working.

Older cars need more maintenance. That's normal. So, that means budgeting small amounts for upkeep in the short term to protect you from larger repair costs later. Servicing the car, checking tyres, fixing small issues early and using trusted mechanics can keep your vehicle safe for much longer than you may expect.

Many South Africans keep older cars on the road for years by following these habits, whether they are in debt review or not.

But what happens if the car breaks down or packs up?

Finding Clever Solutions

If you are in debt review and your car breaks down it can cause serious stress.

You may worry about getting to work, taking your children to school or attending appointments. Many people feel embarrassed asking for help. Others feel trapped because they know they cannot take a loan so they may be tempted to try drop out of debt review with the mistaken hope of ever getting more finance without finishing up.

Every situation is going to be unique but simply put you may need to get creative to solve the problem and keep your debt review on track. Some who have been in this situation have been able to join lift clubs or organise rides with colleagues. Some borrow a family member's car for a short period (with proper insurance arrangements, of course). Others simply use public transport until they have saved up and their own car is repaired.

These solutions may not be fast and may not feel ideal, but they keep life moving while you stay on track with your debt review.

Some people do end up choosing to rent a car for a short time, but only if the cost fits inside the debt review budget. Others who have older cars sell a paid up vehicle and buy an even cheaper one with cash if the numbers allow it. This does not happen often, but it is possible. This may not be your forever car but it might have less problems in the short term.

Borrowing a car for a longer period from a trusted family member can also help, but (once again) only do that if insurance is correctly arranged. All of these options require planning and clear communication, but they help you stay mobile without risking your debt review progress.

After Debt Review You Will Have More Options

Many people who complete debt review are excited to get a new or at least a newer car.

It can be an exciting purchase and solve many challenges that you have been having with your existing car. With no other debts to worry about it can be a manageable and responsible use of credit. But that probably lies in the future and is not an option right now.

For now, treat any such offers on social media with caution. You do not want to get scammed or tricked. It's better to keep your debt review in place and care for the vehicle you already have.

As always talk to your debt counsellor if you face challenges with your transport. They will help you adjust your budget if needed and will help you find clever short or long term solutions to keep you on the road.