Financing
How to Finance an ATV or Snowmobile With Bad Credit
By the Groupe Contant Team · Published July 8, 2026 · Updated July 9, 2026
Quick Answer
How do you finance an ATV or snowmobile with bad credit?
Groupe Contant offers 1st, 2nd, and 3rd chance credit financing, even after a bankruptcy or consumer proposal. A larger down payment, a co-signer, or a slightly higher rate may be requested depending on your file, but financing remains accessible for most credit profiles.
A difficult credit history shouldn't completely close the door on buying an ATV or snowmobile. Several dealers, including Groupe Contant, have built programs specifically for higher-risk borrowers.
This guide explains how this type of financing works, what can improve your approval odds, and what to actually expect.
How 2nd and 3rd Chance Financing Works
- 1st chance — solid credit, standard or promotional rate, the most favourable terms.
- 2nd chance — a few missed payments or limited credit history, financing still accessible with adjusted terms.
- 3rd chance — bankruptcy, consumer proposal, or seriously damaged credit; financing remains possible, often with a larger down payment or a co-signer.
What Can Improve Your Approval Odds
- Down payment — even a modest one reduces the financed amount and reassures the lender.
- Co-signer — a relative with good credit can tip the decision in your favour.
- Proof of stable income — recent steady employment or income strengthens your file.
- Recent stable credit history — even after a bankruptcy, a few months of regular payments works in your favour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Groupe Contant offers 1st, 2nd, and 3rd chance credit financing, even after a bankruptcy or consumer proposal. A larger down payment, a co-signer, or a slightly higher rate may be requested depending on your file, but financing remains accessible for most credit profiles.
Not always mandatory, but strongly recommended — it reduces the lender's risk and generally improves the terms offered. See our finance or pay cash guide to weigh your options.
This depends mostly on when your bankruptcy is officially discharged, not just the lender: according to the Office of the Superintendent of Bankruptcy Canada, a first bankruptcy with no surplus income is typically discharged after 9 months. In recreational-vehicle financing specifically, 3rd chance approval right after discharge remains harder to get; 2nd chance files are generally easier to approve once your credit has started rebuilding, or the bankruptcy process has been properly completed — talk directly to a Groupe Contant advisor about the options available for your situation.
Generally somewhat higher than 1st chance financing, but still competitive compared to having no financing access at all. See our 2026 financing rates guide for specific numbers.
Yes. On-time payments on a financed loan are reported to credit agencies and help improve your file over time.
Groupe Contant — Your Quebec Dealer
Groupe Contant offers financing solutions for every credit profile — whether you're buying new or used. Submit your application online in a few minutes.