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When purchasing a vehicle, car finance allows you to borrow money and spread the cost over time. Understanding the terms involved is crucial for making well-informed decisions. Various finance options cater to different financial circumstances, and researching these options can help find the best deal. Assessing bank accounts and considering UK financial regulations can guide borrowers in navigating the complexities of car finance. Additionally, using online tools like PDF guides and email notifications can simplify the process of managing car finance, making it easier to stay on top of payments and terms.

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Our user-friendly online application is easy to complete. Simply provide us with a few essential details about yourself and your desired finance amount. Our experienced team will promptly review your application and provide a swift decision, bringing you one step closer to driving your dream car. Start your journey to car ownership today with just a few clicks.

2

Find Your Perfect Car

Now for the exciting part – selecting your ideal vehicle. Whether you've already set your heart on a specific car or you're open to exploring your options, Free Price Compare has you covered. Browse our extensive network of trusted dealers and take advantage of our complimentary vehicle and history checks. We'll help you find the car that perfectly matches your preferences and budget.

3

Drive Away with Ease

Once you've found your perfect car and you're satisfied with the finance agreement, leave the rest to us. Free Price Compare takes care of finalising the agreement, making the buying process effortless. All you need to do is collect your new car and embark on unforgettable journeys. We'll handle the payment directly with the dealer, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience for you.

Why Choose Free Price Compare For Your Car Finance?

Get a Swift Decision

Apply online and get a decision in just minutes. Provide some basic information, and we'll quickly let you know how much you can borrow, helping you proceed with confidence.

Access the Best Finance Options

Our extensive network includes a diverse range of lenders offering competitive, flexible financing solutions like low APR and no deposit options. We ensure you have access to the best deals available.

Benefit from Unbiased Advice

We offer honest, transparent advice without any hidden fees. Trust our team to prioritise your interests, ensuring you make informed decisions that suit your financial situation.

Enjoy a Personalised Approach

Every customer's situation is unique, which is why we tailor our services to meet your individual needs. Contact us for a personalised consultation that focuses on achieving your car ownership goals.

Secure Competitive Rates

Thanks to our strong relationships with numerous lenders, we secure rates that are often lower than typical market offerings. We negotiate hard so you don't have to, ensuring you receive the best terms possible.

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Apply now for instant pre-approval, or contact our team for a no-obligation consultation. Let's make your car ownership dream a reality—fast, easy, and tailored just for you.

Basics of Car Finance

When considering car finance, it's essential to understand the loan amount, interest rate, and monthly repayments. These terms are influenced by your credit score and personal circumstances, determining eligibility and the overall terms of the finance. Additionally, paying attention to the representative APR and the total amount payable is crucial. Calculating car finance using a car loan calculator can provide valuable insights into planning and managing your finances effectively.

Did you know: Some lenders offer 'soft search' quotes that won't affect your credit score. Use these to compare offers without impacting your creditworthiness.

Compare HP Car Finance

HP finance suits those unable to pay the full amount upfront. The agreement outlines the total cost of credit, interest rate, and duration.

How Car Finance Works

When financing a car, the cost can be spread over time with monthly payments that cover the loan amount plus interest, as per the loan agreement. It's important to understand the car finance interest rate to assess the overall cost. Common car finance options such as Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) and Hire Purchase (HP) are available. However, early repayment of car finance loans may result in fees, affecting the total amount payable.

Remember: The advertised APR is often a 'representative' rate. Only 51% of successful applicants may receive this rate, so your actual offer could differ.

How Car Finance Works

Introduction to Zuto Finance, Our Trusted Partner

Zuto Finance, our trusted partner, brings extensive industry experience to securing the best car finance deals. With access to a wide network of lenders, they offer diverse finance options through a convenient online platform. Customer reviews and testimonials confirm their reliability and trustworthiness. Zuto Finance simplifies car finance with expertise, making them a reliable ally in your car buying journey.

Who is Zuto Finance?

Zuto Finance, a renowned car finance broker, specialises in securing competitive deals for customers. With expertise in understanding individual needs, they provide tailored finance solutions that cater to both new and used car purchases. Zuto Finance adheres to lending practice and financial conduct authority regulations.

Why Trust Zuto Finance?

Trusting the expertise of Zuto Finance is a wise choice. With access to a wide range of car finance deals, they prioritise transparency throughout the application process. Providing personalised solutions and support for customers with unique circumstances or financial problems, Zuto Finance is committed to ensuring customer satisfaction through fair lending practices.

Representative Example

Borrowing £8,000 over 60 months with a representative APR of 19.9% the amount payable would be £204 a month, with a total cost of credit of £4,264 and a total amount payable of £12,264.

Free Price Compare will introduce you to Zuto Limited, Zuto is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, registration number 452589 Zuto is a credit broker, not a lender. Their rates start from 9.4% APR. The rate you are offered will depend on your individual circumstances.

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How Much Can You Borrow?

Understanding your borrowing capacity is crucial when it comes to new car finance. Use our car loan calculator to evaluate the loan amount you can afford based on your financial circumstances. With flexible terms like personal contract purchase, you can find better deals that suit your needs. Estimate your eligibility for Zuto car finance based on factors like credit score and personal circumstances.

Factors Influencing Loan Amount

Evaluation of the loan amount depends on financial circumstances, personal contract purchase, and better deal terms. Understanding loan agreements, representative APR, and monthly payments for eligibility plays a crucial role. New car finance terms, along with a car loan calculator, significantly affect borrowing capacity. Additionally, considering a loan with a car, car loan interest rates, bank auto loans, and online car loan options all impact the total amount borrowers can access.

Understanding Your Borrowing Capacity

Evaluating your potential borrowing capacity for new car finance involves understanding various loan agreement terms and using a car loan calculator for accurate estimations. Familiarising yourself with personal contract purchase and contract purchase options provides flexibility when purchasing a car. It's essential to estimate your financial circumstances and assess better deal options to gauge your eligibility for new car finance. Factors such as personal loan, representative APR, and monthly payments also influence your borrowing capacity. Assessing these considerations will help determine your eligibility for car finance.

Tip: Consider the total cost of car ownership, not just the finance payments. Factor in insurance, road tax, and maintenance when budgeting.

Applying for Car Finance

Applying for Car Finance

Applying for car finance is a straightforward process that can help you get behind the wheel of your dream vehicle. Here are the steps to follow for a successful car finance application:

  1. Know Your Budget: Before applying for car finance, assess your financial situation to determine how much you can comfortably afford for monthly repayments.
  2. Complete the Application: Fill out our car finance online application form. Be thorough and provide accurate information.
  3. Select Your Vehicle: Decide on the car you want to finance. Ensure it fits within your budget and meets your needs.
  4. Review Loan Terms:Carefully review the loan terms, including the interest rate, repayment period, and any additional fees or charges.
  5. Read and Sign the Agreement:Carefully read the loan agreement, ensuring you understand all terms and conditions. Sign the agreement if you're satisfied.
  6. Make Payments:Once the agreement is signed, begin making regular monthly payments according to the agreed-upon schedule.
  7. Enjoy Your New Car:With your car finance in place, you can now enjoy your new vehicle.

Compare Electric Car Finance

One of the most significant differences in electric car financing is the availability of federal tax credits and state incentives that can help offset the cost of purchasing an EV.

Popular types of car finance

Explore diverse car finance options to secure the best deals. Compare popular choices like hire purchase, personal contract hire. Find tailored solutions for used car purchases with cheap finance deals. Evaluate different types of car finance to secure favourable loan terms and monthly repayments. Discover widely-used car finance options that offer better deals on car loans and used car finance.

Hire Purchase (HP)

When considering car finance, Hire Purchase (HP) provides options with a balloon payment and part exchange. Understanding HP Car Finance can lead to better deals on new car purchases, offering improved loan terms and monthly payments, along with a better interest rate and representative APR. Additionally, HP car finance benefits those seeking used car finance deals. Utilising HP for car finance allows for flexibility and varied options to suit individual needs.

Personal Contract Hire (PCH)

Personal Contract Hire (PCH) offers new car finance with lump sum and early repayment options, providing a better understanding of finance deals for car lease and payment terms. For used car leasing, PCH finance presents better monthly fee options and contract purchase terms. It also provides better loan terms and total amount for new and used car finance, enhancing the options available for those seeking car finance solutions. PCH opens doors to various financial benefits, ensuring flexibility and better control over car lease arrangements.

Used Car Finance

When opting for used car finance, you can secure better deals on second-hand vehicles and benefit from cheaper car loans. By exploring used car finance options, you can find loan terms and monthly payments that suit your financial situation. It's important to understand the representative APR and interest rates associated with used car finance to make an informed decision. Utilizing a car loan calculator can help you determine the total amount and monthly repayments, enabling you to manage your finances effectively.

Finance features: Hire purchase (HP) Personal contract purchase (PCP) Personal loan
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Fixed monthly payments
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Secured against an asset (e.g. a car)
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Did you know: Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) deals often have lower monthly payments, but you'll need to make a balloon payment at the end to own the car outright.

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Car Loan Calculator

Estimate monthly repayments before finalising a car purchase with a car loan calculator. Evaluate annual percentage rate (APR) representative example for loan agreements. Understand credit broker terms and personal loan options. Assess used car finance deals for personal contract purchase (PCP) and personal contract hire (PCH). Gain insights into car finance with maximum APR through conditional sale loan terms.

Importance of a Car Loan Calculator

When considering car finance, a car loan calculator plays a crucial role. It provides valuable insights into monthly payments and total loan amounts, enabling borrowers to make informed decisions. By utilising this tool, individuals can evaluate interest rates, credit scores, and personal circumstances to secure affordable car finance deals. Moreover, it facilitates the assessment of loan terms and lending practices, offering transparency and clarity throughout the car financing process. Whether seeking second-hand car finance or exploring online banking options, a car loan calculator is an indispensable resource for effective financial planning.

Use our car finance calculator

Buying a New or Used Car

When deciding between a new or used car, consider budget, preferences, and ownership goals. New cars offer warranties and latest technology, while used cars require evaluation of condition, mileage, and maintenance history. Compare finance deals, interest rates, total amount payable, and monthly repayments for both options. Factor in loan agreement terms and resale value to make an informed decision. Evaluating these aspects will help you determine the best car finance option for your needs.

Considerations When Buying a New Car

When purchasing a new car, it's crucial to research the best car finance deals and assess personal circumstances for eligibility. Evaluating loan terms and reviewing car loan interest rates are essential for making an informed decision. A visit to the dealership for a test drive and to understand loan agreement terms is recommended. Additionally, considering balloon payments and types of personal loans can impact the overall affordability of the purchase.

Considerations When Buying a Used Car

When purchasing a used car, it's essential to examine various financing options such as cheap car loans and second-hand car finance. Comparing the available finance deals, representative APR, and loan terms is crucial in securing the best deal. Additionally, considering factors like loan amount, personal contract hire, and early repayment options can help make an informed decision. Reviewing standards of lending practice and assessing financial problems will ensure a smooth car finance experience. Inspecting total amount, monthly fees, and bad credit options is vital for a successful purchase.

Tip: If considering a used car, factor in the cost of an independent vehicle inspection. It could save you from costly repairs down the line.

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Important Factors to Consider Before Financing a Car

Before committing to car financing, it's crucial to analyse personal circumstances, credit score, and financial goals. Evaluate various car loans online, considering maximum APR, loan terms, and overall suitability. Review your financial situation and consider options like personal contract hire or part exchange. Assess the stability of new car finance, bank auto loans, and used cars. Understanding the car loan interest rate and seeking out cheap car finance deals can help you secure a better deal.

Assessing Your Financial Situation

Assess your financial situation by calculating monthly payments, loan affordability, and total amount using a loan calculator and understanding APR. Review credit brokers, online banking options, and financial conduct authority standards for car finance lending. Analyse personal contract purchase terms, standards of lending practice, and loan agreement eligibility. Assess your financial stability for business or personal contract hire, considering the financial conduct authority standards. Evaluate your financial circumstances for affordable car finance deals and loan options.

Understanding the True Cost of Car Ownership

Understanding the actual cost of owning a car involves evaluating various factors such as the car purchase, car loan, and loan calculator. It's essential to assess loan amount, financial problems, and used car finance, taking into account lending standards. Calculating the monthly fee, understanding loan terms, and exploring cheap car finance deals are crucial in making an informed decision. Reviewing the terms of the loan agreement and considering different types of personal loans can provide clarity and help in understanding the true cost of car ownership.

Tip: Be wary of 'payment packing' - where dealers add extras to your finance deal. Always ask for a breakdown of costs and only agree to additions you truly need and want.

Compare Negative Equity Car Loan

Car finance with negative equity also tends to come with higher interest rates due to the increased risk for the lenders.

Can I Refinance My Car Loan?

Considering refinancing options for your car loan? Explore opportunities to secure a better interest rate, lower monthly payments, or more favourable terms. Understand loan terms, APR, credit rating, and eligibility for refinancing. Assess your financial circumstances and determine if refinancing is the right move for you.

Did you know: Some finance agreements offer the option to make overpayments. This can reduce your overall interest and potentially shorten your loan term, saving you money in the long run.

Can I Refinance My Car Loan

How Quickly Can I Get Approved for a Car Loan?

Fast approval for car loans ensures a quick path to your next vehicle. Our online application streamlines the approval process for easy access. Check your eligibility online to receive quick decisions on car finance options. Get fast access to financing with our conditional sale and leasing options. Use our loan calculator for quick estimates on monthly payments and total amount.

Navigating Car Finance with Bad Credit

Navigating Car Finance with Bad Credit

When looking for car finance deals tailored to bad credit circumstances, understanding the impact of bad credit on car loan interest rates is crucial. Bad credit car finance options can provide better deals, especially for used car finance. Different car finance lenders specialise in bad credit circumstances, offering various options to explore for a better deal. Exploring car finance with bad credit can lead to improved chances of approval and better terms from lenders.

Impact of Credit Score on Car Finance

Your credit score significantly impacts the interest rate and monthly repayments of your car loan. It also influences the deals and terms available to you when seeking car finance. Factors such as your credit rating play a crucial role in determining your eligibility for car finance. Understanding these impacts can help you secure better loan terms. Improving your credit score can lead to better car finance deals, including options for used car finance.

Remember: While bad credit car finance is available, it often comes with higher interest rates. Consider improving your credit score before applying if possible.

Refinance Car Loan: Lower Your Rates Today

Refinancing can save you money in the long run and allow you to adjust the loan term to fit your current financial situation.

How Has the UK Consumer Car Finance Market Performed Over the Past 5 Years?

The UK consumer car finance market has experienced varying trends in both the new and used car segments over the past five years, according to data from the Finance & Leasing Association (FLA).

In the consumer new car finance market, volumes saw steady growth in 2019 and early 2020, with a 4.0% 12-month growth trend in January 2019 and January 2020. However, the market experienced a significant downturn in January 2021, with volumes falling by 38.2% compared to the previous year, likely due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The market recovered in January 2022 and January 2023, with growth trends of 13.1% and 24.1%, respectively. However, the most recent data from January 2024 shows a decline of 13.0% compared to the previous year.

Date Consumer new car finance volumes (lhs) Consumer new car finance volumes 12-month growth trend (rhs)
Jan '19 183.99 4.0%
Jan '20 191.41 4.0%
Jan '21 118.40 -38.2%
Jan '22 133.92 13.1%
Jan '23 166.15 24.1%
Jan '24 144.62 -13.0%

The consumer used car finance market showed strong growth in 2019 and early 2020, with 12-month growth trends of 7.8% and 11.6% in January 2019 and January 2020, respectively. Like the new car market, used car finance volumes declined in January 2021, falling by 18.4%. The market saw a slight recovery in January 2022, with a growth trend of 2.9%, but experienced another decline of 15.5% in January 2023. However, the most recent data from January 2024 indicates a recovery, with a growth trend of 10.5%.

Date Consumer used car finance volumes (lhs) Consumer used car volumes 12-month growth trend (rhs)
Jan '19 164.73 7.8%
Jan '20 183.86 11.6%
Jan '21 150.03 -18.4%
Jan '22 154.33 2.9%
Jan '23 130.39 -15.5%
Jan '24 144.10 10.5%

Source: Finance & Leasing Association (FLA)

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What Do the Latest FLA Figures Reveal About the UK Consumer Car Finance Market?

The UK consumer car finance market has experienced a mixed performance in recent months, according to the latest figures released by the Finance & Leasing Association (FLA). The table below summarises the key changes in new business volumes and values for the overall market, as well as the consumer new and used car finance segments:

Market Segment Jan 2024 vs Jan 2023 (Change in Value) Jan 2024 vs Jan 2023 (Change in Volume) 12 Months to Jan 2024 vs 12 Months to Jan 2023 (Change in Value) 12 Months to Jan 2024 vs 12 Months to Jan 2023 (Change in Volume)
Overall Consumer Car Finance -3% -3% -5% -6%
Consumer New Car Finance -9% -16% N/A -6%
Consumer Used Car Finance 1% 1% N/A -6%

Source: Finance & Leasing Association (FLA)

In January 2024, the overall market saw a 3% decline in both new business volumes and values compared to the same month in 2023. This trend continued over the twelve months to January 2024, with new business volumes and values falling by 6% and 5%, respectively, compared to the same period in 2023.

The consumer new car finance market was particularly affected, with new business in January 2024 falling by 16% in volume and 9% in value compared to January 2023. Over the twelve months to January 2024, this market segment experienced a 6% drop in new business volumes compared to the same period in 2023. The decline in the new car finance market can be attributed to the shift in consumer preference towards obtaining electric vehicles through salary sacrifice schemes, rather than traditional retail purchases.

In contrast, the consumer used car finance market showed some resilience, reporting a 1% growth in both new business volumes and values in January 2024 compared to the same month in 2023. However, over the twelve months to January 2024, this market segment still experienced a 6% decline in new business volumes compared to the same period in 2023.

Despite the challenges faced by the consumer car finance market, Geraldine Kilkelly, Director of Research and Chief Economist at the FLA, remains optimistic about its future. She expects the market to grow by 2% in 2024, reaching just over £40 billion, although consumer spending growth is likely to remain subdued in the near term due to the current economic climate.

Compare Zero deposit car finance

Zero deposit car finance is an appealing option for individuals looking to acquire a new vehicle without paying an upfront amount.

What Were the Key Trends in the UK Consumer Car Finance Market in 2022?

In 2022, the UK consumer car finance market showcased impressive growth, with a total new lending value reaching £51 billion, as reported by the Finance & Leasing Association (FLA). This figure marks a significant increase from the £29 billion recorded in 2009, emphasising the consistent expansion of the market over the past decade.

When it comes to the consumer new car finance market, Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) agreements emerged as the most popular choice, capturing a substantial 78.8% of the market share by value. Hire Purchase (HP) and Leasing agreements followed, securing market shares of 9.9% and 11.2%, respectively. FLA members played a crucial role in financing over 684,000 new car agreements in 2022, accounting for an impressive 83.7% of all private new car sales in the UK.

In the realm of consumer used car finance, HP agreements dominated the market, holding the largest share by value at 57.3%. PCP agreements came in second with a 40.8% market share, while Leasing agreements constituted 1.9% of the market. The number of used car finance agreements surpassed a remarkable 1.5 million in 2022, highlighting the strong demand for financing options in the used car sector.

Statistic Value
Total consumer car finance new lending in 2022 £51 billion
Consumer new car finance market share by value 78.8%
Consumer new car finance market share by value (HP) 9.9%
Consumer new car finance market share by v (Leasing) 11.2%
Consumer new car finance agreements in 2022 Over 684,000
Consumer used car finance market share by value 40.8%
Consumer used car finance market share by value 57.3%
Consumer used car finance market share by v (Leasing) 1.9%
Consumer used car finance agreements in 2022 More than 1.5 million
FLA members' share of private new car s financed 83.7%
Outstanding consumer car finance contracts held by 6.2 million
Total new consumer car finance lending 2022 vs 2009 Increased from £29 billion to £51 billion

The FLA further disclosed that its members held an astounding 6.2 million outstanding consumer car finance contracts at the end of 2022. This statistic underscores the widespread acceptance and utilisation of car finance solutions among UK consumers.

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Our Car Expert Comments:

"When financing your dream car, look at all options to find the best fit for your needs and budget. PCP is fantastic if you enjoy driving the latest models and want flexibility. For those with less-than-perfect credit but can manage monthly payments, HP offers a path to ownership. However, with a strong credit score and competitive interest rate, a car loan may be the most cost-effective. Consider your deposit, monthly budget, and long-term goals to navigate car finance with confidence and drive away with the best deal."

Car Finance FAQs: Everything You Need to Know

Car finance is a method of borrowing money specifically to purchase a vehicle. Instead of paying the full price upfront, you agree to make monthly payments, with added interest, over a set period. Once you've made all the payments, you'll own the car outright. It's essentially like taking out a loan, but the loan is secured against the car.

In the UK, there are several types of car finance to choose from:

  • Personal Contract Purchase (PCP): A popular option where you pay a deposit, make low monthly payments, and then choose to either return the car, pay a final balloon payment to own it, or trade it in for a new car.
  • Hire Purchase (HP): A straightforward loan where you pay a deposit and then fixed monthly payments until you own the car.
  • Personal Contract Hire (PCH), or leasing: Essentially a long-term car rental. You never own the car, but make fixed payments to use it for an agreed period and mileage.
  • Unsecured personal loans: A loan from a bank or other lender that isn't secured against the car. You own the car outright from the start.
  • Credit cards: Can be used for smaller car purchases, but typically have high interest rates.

To choose the right car finance, consider your personal circumstances. Think about your budget, how much you can afford for a deposit and monthly payments, and how long you want to keep the car. Check your credit score too, as this can affect the deals available to you. PCP is good for regular car changers, HP and loans are best if you want to own the car, and leasing is ideal if you don't want the responsibilities of ownership.

With PCP, you pay an initial deposit, typically around 10%, and then make fixed monthly payments over a set term, usually 2-4 years. These payments are generally lower than with other finance types because they don't cover the full value of the car. At the end of the term, you have three choices: hand the car back and walk away (subject to mileage and condition restrictions), make a final balloon payment to own the car outright, or trade the car in and use any equity towards a new PCP agreement.

Hire Purchase is a simpler form of car finance. Like PCP, you pay a deposit and then make fixed monthly payments. However, the monthly payments are higher because they're calculated to cover the full value of the car over the term of the agreement, which is usually 1-5 years. There's no large balloon payment at the end - once you've made the final monthly payment, you own the car outright. The car remains the property of the finance company until this final payment.

Yes, leasing and Personal Contract Hire (PCH) are the same thing. When you lease a car, you make fixed monthly payments to use the car for an agreed period, typically 2-4 years, and for an agreed annual mileage. Once the contract ends, you simply return the car to the leasing company. You never own the car, and there's no option to buy it. Leasing is essentially a long-term rental.

Getting car finance with bad credit is possible, but it can be more difficult and expensive. Some lenders specialise in 'subprime' car finance for those with poor credit, but the interest rates are usually much higher to offset the perceived risk. The key is to check your credit report before applying, and to compare deals carefully. Be wary of any lender that guarantees approval regardless of credit history, as they may charge very high interest rates.

Deposit requirements vary significantly between different types of car finance and different lenders. Some deals, particularly for those with good credit, may be available with no deposit at all. However, it's more common to be asked for a deposit of around 10% of the car's value. In general, the larger the deposit you can put down, the lower your monthly payments and the less interest you'll pay overall.

Your ability to cancel a car finance agreement depends on the type of finance and the terms of your specific contract. By law, you have a right to withdraw from a PCP or HP agreement within 14 days of signing. After this, you can usually cancel the agreement voluntarily, but you may face significant early repayment charges. With leasing, there's no automatic right to cancel, but some leasing companies may allow you to end the contract early if you pay a termination fee.

If you have a car on PCP or HP Finance, you don't legally own the car until you've made all the payments. This means you can't sell the car without first settling the finance. If you do sell the car, you must use the proceeds to pay off the outstanding finance balance. Any money left over is yours to keep. If the car sells for less than the finance balance, you'll need to make up the difference. With leasing, you never own the car, so you can't sell it at all.

Before committing to car finance, it's crucial to do your due diligence. Key steps include checking your credit report for errors, working out a realistic budget for monthly payments, comparing different finance types and lenders, reading the fine print for hidden fees or charges, and considering additional protection like GAP insurance, especially for brand new cars.

To improve your car finance chances, start by checking your credit report for errors and getting them corrected. Aim to build your credit score by using credit responsibly and always making payments on time. Save up for a larger deposit, as this can open up better finance deals. Be realistic about the car you can afford, as overreaching can lead to rejected applications. Always be honest in your finance application, and have proof of income and address ready to provide.

When you apply for car finance, you'll typically need to provide several key documents. These include proof of identity (such as a passport or driving license), proof of address (like recent utility bills or bank statements), details of your employment and income (payslips, bank statements, or accounts if self-employed), information about the car you want to finance (make, model, age, mileage, etc.), and your bank details for setting up the monthly direct debit payments.

Yes, some lenders offer car finance for students. However, as a student, you may face some additional challenges. Lenders may charge higher interest rates to offset the perceived higher risk of lending to students, and you may need to provide extra documentation to prove your ability to make repayments. Some student car finance may require a guarantor, usually a parent, to co-sign the agreement and agree to make payments if you can't.

Missing a car finance payment can have serious consequences. Most lenders will charge a late payment fee, and your credit score will likely take a hit. If you continue to miss payments, the lender may eventually repossess the car. They can then sell it to recoup their losses, and you'll be liable for any shortfall, plus additional fees. If you're struggling to make payments, the best thing to do is contact your lender immediately. They may be able to offer a temporary payment holiday or restructure your payments to make them more manageable.

More on Car Finance

Page last updated on: 16/05/2024

Page reviewed by: Shay Ramani

We work with Zuto who are a credit broker, not a lender. Their rates start from 9.4% APR. The rate you are offered will depend on your individual circumstances. Representative Example: Borrowing £8,000 over 60 months with a representative APR of 19.9% the amount payable would be £204 a month, with a total cost of credit of £4,264 and a total amount payable of £12,264.

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