In the midst of a nationwide economy slowdown, car dealers say buying a vehicle is not as difficult as many people think.

"Not every bank is as lenient as it used to be, but it is the dealer's job to place the financing at the right time with the right people," said Troy Strezeski.

Strezeski, the vice president and general manager of Troy-Allen Chevrolet in Slippery Rock, said vehicle buyers have multiple financing options whether they are searching for a new or used vehicle.

"Banks are more particular with their loans on used cars than in the past, in regard to mileage and the vehicle's condition," Strezeski said.

But the good news, he said, is nine out of 10 buyers can have financing approved by using their initial money-down payment, adding a loan cosigner, adjusting the interest rate of the loan or choosing a different vehicle.

"My business is a direct reflection of the people I get approved. There is no story we cannot overcome," Strezeski said.

He said the people who are not approved for any loan generally do not have the income to support their debt and a car payment or are delinquent on past loan payments.

"Things now are the same as they were three years ago. There is such a broad spectrum of lending out there that we rarely have to turn anyone away," said Matt Anderson, finance director for Mike Kelly Automotive on Route 8 south of Butler.

"It's not all credit score based," he said.

Even a poor credit rating can be overcome, Strezeski said, as he deals with one bank that approves loans only to clients with a rating between zero and 500, "and they make a good business of it."

"The big thing is to not get yourself in over your head as if there will never be a rainy day," Strezeski said.

A credit rating above 500 is considered satisfactory, while one above 700 is considered excellent. The credit rating directly affects the interest rate of any loan.

In cases of buyers whose credit is less than stellar or who have not established a line of credit, most dealerships have a special finance director to assist them.

"I have people who are 30 years old who need a co-signer (on a loan) because they have no revolving credit, such as a car loan or a mortgage in their name," said Elaine Donaldson, special finance manager for Baglier Buick/GMC/Mazda on Route 8 south of Butler.

But she said most people can get a car loan.

"We try to take steps to fill the holes, and we can approve most customers after a few questions," Donaldson said.

Some of those holes come from maxed-out credit cards, a few late payments or a former bankruptcy that can hurt a car buyer's chances at a loan. Outstanding student loans or a small line of credit, even with a good rating, can spell difficulty, as well.

Donaldson said potential vehicle buyers should be familiar with their personal credit report and be prepared to pay at least the vehicle's taxes and plate fees when buying.

"The days of walking into a dealership with no money and leaving with a vehicle are over. For the next two years, if you're going to buy a car, you'd better come in with some money," Donaldson said.