Car Finance Options Archives

A Guide to Buying Your First Car on Finance

Man holding keys after buying first car on finance

Alongside graduating from school, college or university, starting work and moving out (bye-bye parents, hello freedom), buying a car is a pivotal moment for any young person. However, without the bank of mum and dad, many struggle to afford the lump sum payment, which is why car finance is an attractive and realistic option.

In this short guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about buying your first car on finance, from improving your credit score and setting budgets to securing the best possible deals. While we’ve tailored this guide mostly to young first-time buyers, the advice given applies to anyone searching for a more affordable way to get on the road.

What is car finance?

Car finance is an accessible means of owning the car of your dreams. Instead of covering the full cost upfront, you can spread payments over several months or years in reasonable, bite-sized chunks.

A personal contract purchase (PCP) is a popular way of financing a car. Agreements often last between three to five years, and at the end you can either make a final payment to keep the vehicle, return it or use the resale value towards buying something brand-new.

You can also opt for Hire Purchase (HP) if you prefer the idea of owning the car at the end of the agreement without needing to pay a final lump sum payment.

To secure a finance agreement, you’ll have to pass a credit check and lender criteria and it helps to make a small deposit upfront (usually 10% of the car’s total cost).

How to improve your credit score

Before lenders consider your application, they’ll undertake a thorough credit check to assess your potential risk. The overall score determines who qualifies for a loan, the amount you can borrow, interest rates and credit limits. 

To ensure you’re in the best position possible, you’ll need some active credit history to show you can manage money responsibly (this is especially important for students without full-time employment). Below are three simple ways you can improve your score and bolster your chances of securing finance.

Check you’re on the electoral roll

Lenders check whether you’re on the electoral roll to protect themselves against fraud. If you’re a student, you can register at your home address or student address.

Apply for a credit card and use it sensibly

Using a credit card is the easiest way to show lenders you can keep track of your outgoings. However, if you’re worried about debt or have a low credit rating, a prepaid card is an alternative option, working similarly to a pay-as-you-go mobile capping your spending. Students may also be eligible for a student credit card with a low credit limit. 

Mobile phone contract 

If you’ve never had credit, a mobile phone contract is a simple way of improving your score. They work much the same as repaying car finance, albeit on a much smaller scale, demonstrating your ability to meet monthly repayments.

Four things to do before buying your first car on finance

Set your budget and plan for additional costs

The most crucial part of buying any car is setting a budget and sticking to it, no matter how tempting a set of shiny new wheels might be. So, before entering a finance agreement, prepare to meet monthly repayments by choosing a realistic model. If possible, negotiate an arrangement that suits your income stream.

However, it’s not just the initial value of the car you must consider – plan for running and maintenance costs too. These include:

Car insurance (often more expensive for new and young drivers)
Fuel costs, especially if you plan to travel frequently
MOT tests, scheduled maintenance and repair costs
Road tax (there are a few exemptions)

If you’re not sure how much you can borrow, read this handy guide.

Decide whether you want a used or new car

When it comes to buying your first car, a key consideration is whether you should buy new or used. While the decision is ultimately personal, depending on your budget and immediate needs, consider the benefits of both routes before making a final decision.

The advantages of a used car include affordability (the initial price is often between 30-50% less, meaning lower monthly repayments), cheaper insurance (a massive incentive for new drivers who are already facing premiums) and discounted tax.

However, there’s more choice when buying a new car and improved safety features, such as automatic emergency brakes, adaptive cruise control and intelligent sensor systems that reduce collisions. Surprisingly, new models are also quite affordable thanks to the range of generous finance deals on offer.

Find a guarantor

If you’re a student, you’re still eligible to buy a new car on finance. Although, without a full-time income, lenders may need additional reassurance that you can meet monthly repayments. In these cases, a guarantor will help bolster your application.

A guarantor is usually a close friend or relative, with a good credit history, who agrees to continue repayments if you’re unable to make them. While they can’t take on the loan (it will always be in your name), they act as a safety net to mitigate risk.

Entering into a Guarantor Loan is a big responsibility for both parties. It is therefore important that you both understand your obligations, as well as the potential risks.

Double check the agreement before signing

You know how the saying goes – it’s better to be safe than sorry. With that in mind, double-check the terms and conditions of your finance agreement to avoid hidden charges and dubious stipulations.

Things to watch out for include:

Mileage caps which restrict the amount you can travel each year (exceeding the limit incurs charges anywhere between 3p to 70p per mile)
Late payment policies which penalise you for missing repayments
Damage charges and service requirements
“Free” insurance policies that sound too good to be true

Do you need help finding a finance agreement?

Buying your first car is nerve-wracking at the best of times without worrying about hefty upfront costs, which is why we aim to make the process as straightforward and affordable as possible with the best finance deals anywhere in the UK.

To learn more, call us on 01246 458 810 or drop us an email at enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk – one of our friendly specialists will be in touch shortly. For additional information, you can also visit our website where we have hundreds of helpful blogs and articles to browse through.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

or call 01246 458 810

How to Get Car Finance for Students

young man and lady laughing while trying to find car finance for students

If you pass your driving test before or during university, you’ll be in the advantageous position of driving as a student. That means no more buses and trains to and from campus, home or your part-time job.

Whatever the case, having a trustworthy car is a huge benefit for students, but there's just one small hurdle to address – how do you pay for it? My Car Credit explores the ins and outs of securing car finance for students.

In reality, it’s difficult for most people to cover the costs of buying a car upfront, let alone for someone prioritising their studies. However, there’s no need to fret because your student status doesn’t exclude you from purchasing a car on finance. To qualify, you’re assessed the same way as everyone else – on credit history, income and risk.

1. Credit score

A credit score is a rating based on your financial history that helps lenders to determine who qualifies for a loan, the potential risk, interest rates and credit limits.

To ensure you’re in the best possible position to qualify for finance, you’ll need some active credit history to reassure companies you can manage your money responsibly. Below, we’ve listed three simple ways you can improve your standing with lenders.

Mobile phone contract

Most students already have mobile phones on contract but if you don’t, consider entering an agreement. They work much the same as repaying car finance, albeit on a much smaller level. Paying your monthly bills proves you’re able to budget your finances accordingly.

Student credit card

If you have a student bank account, you may be eligible for a student credit card with a low credit limit. If so, use this card to make small purchases, then settle the outstanding balance at the end of each month.

Electoral roll

Lenders check whether you’re on the electoral roll to protect themselves against fraud. If you’re a young student, your parents will probably have registered you at your home address. However, you can also re-register at your student address.

2. Income

To qualify for finance, you’ll have to prove you have some reliable means of income. To be clear, you cannot make repayments using your student loan. If you don’t have any income, you have to honestly assess if you can afford to buy a car in the first place.

It doesn’t matter whether you have a full-time or part-time job – what’s important is how much you earn. At My Car Credit, we consider applications from students who make around £1000 per month.

3. Guarantor or Joint Applicant

If you’re a parent, you might wonder if you can finance a car for your child. In a sense, you can – while your child will be responsible for making the agreed repayments, you can bolster their application by agreeing to be either a guarantor or by making a joint application.

A guarantor is usually a close relative, with a good credit history, who is prepared to back a loan by agreeing to continue payments if the recipient is unable to make them. They are not responsible for repaying the loan but act as a safety net to mitigate risk for lenders. However, the responsibility of being a guarantor should not be underestimated. Failure to make the monthly payments will mean that ultimately, both parties may find their credit profile affected.

A stronger option is via a joint application by both the student and a parent. This is a good solution where the student is on a good income but maybe has a weaker credit score. Again, there is a big responsibility that comes with this approach. It is therefore important to consider all options before entering into a car finance agreement.

How we can help

If you’re a student, you’re still eligible for car finance provided you have a credit history, some reliable income and, where necessary, a guarantor or joint applicant.

Our online application form doesn’t allow for adding in an additional person. Instead, to start your journey, speak to one of our team members by calling 01246 458 810 or emailing enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

Check for car finance without affecting your credit score

What is a Guarantor Loan?

Can I Finance an Automatic Car?

Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

or call 01246 458 810

credit score guarantor joint application student car finance students

Why You Should Steer Clear of Low Rate Car Finance Promises

Frustrated lady on laptop trying to find low rate car finance

Buying a brand-new or used car is often a serious investment. It can be tempting to offset costs by opting for a car finance agreement that guarantees astonishingly low interest rates.

However, when something sounds too good to be true, it usually is! In reality, finance companies can't promise low rate car finance for all applicants. This is because they’re calculated based on individual credit scores and circumstances.

How are interest rates calculated?

So, shiny promises aside, how is car finance interest calculated? The outcome depends on many variables, including a person’s credit history, income, desired vehicle model and deposit.

Without a doubt, a person’s credit score is the most significant factor. This is a rating everyone has based on their financial history. This rating helps lenders to determine potential risk, interest rates and credit limits. It’s used to gauge someone’s trustworthiness and likelihood to pay back instalments. A good credit score increases your chances of securing a lower interest rate and overall monthly repayments.

However, at My Car Credit, we understand that unforeseen circumstances can impact a person’s credit rating through no fault of their own. This is why we’re open to accepting applications from people with less than perfect financial backgrounds.

If you’d like to improve your chances of securing finance, there are plenty of simple ways to bolster your rating and generate more favourable interest rates before applying.

We can help you find the best possible interest rates

Whilst we would never promise you a low interest rate, we are in a great position to find you the best deal on car finance for your circumstances. We have the largest panel of lenders out of any UK car finance broker. This gives us the best chance of matching you to a lender with the most desirable interest rates.

To start your journey, speak to one of our knowledgeable team members by calling 01246 458 810 or emailing enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

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Can You Modify a Car on HP Finance?

Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

or call 01246 458 810

apr car finance calculator Jan24 low rate car finance

Can I Sell My Car with Outstanding Finance?

Man handing over car keys after clearing outstanding finance on his car

More people than ever are using finance schemes to buy new and used cars. But what happens when a person wants to sell up or trade-in before they've finished paying the outstanding amount on their contract?

It’s a question we receive time and time again at My Car Credit, so here’s everything you need to know before listing the car for sale.

Can I sell a car with outstanding hire purchase finance?

The short answer is unfortunately not. Until you settle the outstanding fees, the car belongs to the lender and isn’t yours to sell. What’s more, if you tried to make a sale without telling the buyer about the existing finance agreement, you could face severe penalties including car repossession, court proceedings and fraud charges.

However, you can work around these stipulations by contacting your finance company and asking them for a settlement figure. Once you’ve paid this, which amounts to the full sum left on your contract, the car will legally be yours to sell.

A word of warning

If you take the settlement route, it could end up costing you more money than expected thanks to early repayment and administration fees. Check with your lender beforehand to factor in these additional costs before making a final decision.

Another viable option is to visit a car dealership. Provided the settlement amount is less than the car’s total worth, you can put the difference towards a deposit for a new set of wheels. Once you’ve checked the figures, you can get a quote for a new finance deal and arrange monthly repayments with your lender.

Can I sell a car with an outstanding personal contract purchase?

Just like hire purchase agreements, the finance company legally owns the car when you take out a personal contract purchase agreement.

If you wanted to sell, you must follow the same route of acquiring ownership through settlement beforehand.

What about a personal loan?

Personal loans work differently to car finance agreements. Assuming you paid for the car in full, you’re the legal owner of the car, and there are no restrictions when it comes to selling.

Just remember, you’re still liable for the monthly repayments on your personal loan once you’ve handed over possession.

Voluntary termination

Some people look to sell their car because of difficulties keeping up with monthly repayments. However, in this case, an easier option could be voluntary termination.

Provided you have covered at least 50% of the total cost, and your contract includes a voluntary termination clause, you should be able to return the vehicle stress-free without making any further payments.

Are you looking for a car finance deal?

At My Car Credit, our goal is to make securing car finance as simple and accessible as possible, whatever your credit score or budget.

To find out how we can help you, give us a call on 01246 458 810 or drop us an email at enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk. One of our knowledgeable team members will get back to you as soon as possible.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

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8 Benefits of Getting an Electric Car on Finance

Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

or call 01246 458 810

outstanding finance settlement figure voluntary termination

Advice for Extending Your Car Finance Payment Holiday

man worried about extending his car finance holiday

The COVID-19 pandemic has put financial stress on millions of Brits across the country, with unemployment benefit claims recently jumping to the highest levels in more than 20 years. As a result, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has been rolling out a wave of relief packages, including payment holidays on car finance.

The scheme kicked off in March and was recently extended until October 31, offering Brits the option to defer more than six months’ worth of repayments. Read on for some advice on how the extended payment holiday works and whether you should take one.

Hugely popular scheme

As the name suggests, the car finance payment holiday allows you to take a break on payments for your car finance agreement. “If you’ve a car loan, PCP, leasing or HP deal and are struggling to pay due to coronavirus, you can get a new or extended three month payment holidays on request,” explains Martin Lewis, founder of consumer finance information website MoneySavingExpert. “They can’t repossess cars for non-payment until October 31.”

The latest data from lenders’ trade body UK Finance confirms the scheme has been hugely popular, with more than 1.9 million Brits taking advantage of payment holidays for mortgages alone. While the package is a blessing for Brits struggling to repay loans, experts stress caution should be used when deciding whether to apply for a car finance payment holiday.

A credit file footprint

The COVID-19 pandemic may have reimagined the lending landscape but that doesn’t mean your credit file will remain unaffected. While the Chancellor and FCA have confirmed car finance holidays won’t show up on your credit file, lenders can still find out if you’ve applied for deferrals and use this to negatively assess your application.

This can be done by sourcing information via a third party or looking for inconsistencies in your payment history. The FCA has confirmed this is legal and has even warned consumers about the potentially negative impacts of payment holidays. So, while a little relief in the short term is tempting, a payment holiday could impact your chances of securing loans in the future.

“If you NEED one, take it, but ONLY take it if you need it,” stresses Lewis.

Deferral, not holiday

While the scheme is marketed as a payment holiday this term can be deceiving. Holiday implies a carefree system where borrowers can forget about a payment. In reality, payments are simply deferred and can result in larger debts when the car finance holiday is over.

Factoring in interest

The option to defer payments will be hugely helpful for some. However, for those who can afford to continue paying, the advice is to do so. Excluding payday loan holidays, interest isn’t frozen and will continue to accumulate over the course of the car finance payment holiday.

Usually, repayments lower the total amount owed and gradually bring down the interest. By freezing payments you’re not lowering the total amount and as a result, interest starts to climb, and the loan will cost you more in the long run.

Car finance payment holidays have provided much-needed relief to many Brits during the COVID-19 pandemic but at the same time, they’ve also tempted many borrowers who don’t need assistance. Before applying, the best thing to do is crunch the numbers, talk to your lender and make an educated decision about whether a car finance holiday is the right decision for you. If you’re in trouble, the National Debtline is a fantastic resource.

How we can help

Whether you’re in need of a payment holiday or you’re looking to upgrade your car as things get back up and running, the team at My Car Credit is here to help. Get in touch with our team to discuss your requirements in more depth.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

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How Many Years in a Car Loan Term?

Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

or call 01246 458 810

car finance payment holiday coronavirus covid-19 debt extending payment holiday

Coronavirus Outbreak: Can I Get a Car Finance Payment Holiday?

Man with sleeves rolled up using his phone to check if he can get a payment holiday

Many households are having to endure significant changes to their personal finances in recent weeks due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Although the introduction of incentives such as mortgage payment holidays have eased the pressure on some families, there are still questions for motorists who are struggling to pay monthly fees for their vehicles.

With around 9 in 10 new cars in Britain bought using some sort of finance, the coronavirus outbreak will certainly be causing concern for many drivers who have a shrinking budget. If you are looking for some relief on your car finance payment due to COVID-19, here is what you should know….

Tell your finance provider straight away

All lenders are required by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to work with their customers to come to an arrangement that is in the interests of fair and appropriate customer outcomes. This includes offering payment holidays of up to three months for customers who’s individual or household income has been affected directly by COVID-19.

Communication is key. If you are a customer suffering financial difficulty or are anticipating payment problems due to the coronavirus, get in touch with your lender as soon as possible. Be aware that call volumes will be very high at the moment, and most lenders will be working with an unprecedented number of concerns. Use online forms and emails where possible. Some lenders may have moved employees from sales and new business acquisition to client support. They may also pause new lending to support their existing client base. Be patient when contacting your lender.

Work with your lender

The solutions will vary from lender to lender and customer to customer. Keep in mind that lenders will be underwriting whilst giving consideration to customers in different circumstances, so two people may not get the same outcome. Discuss your concerns with your lender and work together to find an answer that best suits your circumstances. Not all lenders will be able to offer you a car finance payment holiday, but they will be sympathetic to your situation and can advise on further action to take.

Understand the consequences

If your lender is able to offer you a car finance payment holiday, be sure that you understand its impact. In most cases, if you take a payment holiday for two months, your loan will be extended for two months to cover the missed payments. Also, there should be no impact to your credit score. However, it will be visible on your credit file.

During the pandemic, you will have the option to stop your monthly car finance payments temporarily for a period of up to three months, which in some cases may mean you will accrue additional interest charges. At the end of the car finance payment holiday, the finance company will recalculate the remaining monthly payments and may increase them slightly to cover the cost of unpaid fees.

Contacting your lender

Are you struggling to pay your car finance payment? You can easily access lender contact details for many of My Car Credit’s finance panel. Get in touch with them today to discuss your circumstances.

If you are concerned about the financial impacts of COVID-19 or are experiencing financial difficulties, the following not-for-profit organisations also provide free, confidential and impartial debt advice and support:

Citizens Advice – www.adviceguide.org.uk

National Debtline – www.nationaldebtline.co.uk

Money Advice Service – www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk

If you need any further advice, the team at My Car Credit is here to help. We have years of experience in handling unique client cases. We are following Government guidelines and industry updates on dealing with the coronavirus and its consequences. Get in touch on 01246 458 810 or email us at enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

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Car Finance: A Complete Guide

Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

or call 01246 458 810

car finance payment holiday coronavirus covid-19

What to Do If You Can’t Pay Car Finance Because of COVID-19

calculator being used to work out how to pay car finance

The coronavirus pandemic has caused disruption in everyone’s lives across the UK. From the way we work to weekly supermarket shopping, COVID-19 has impacted all of us. While it continues to cause all sorts of stress around health, financial wellbeing is an escalating issue for many. If you’re worried that you can’t pay car finance or make your monthly repayments because of COVID-19, read on to find out what your options are.

Over two million car finance agreement were transacted in 2019 alone, meaning a lot of people will be worried about how they will make their payments in the months to come.

If you’ve bought a car on finance and can no longer afford it because you’ve been laid off, furloughed, or have seen a significant drop in your income, here is what you should know about your options to secure more affordable car payments.

Review your paperwork

Look over the paperwork that you signed when taking out your car finance plan. Read through the wording and check if there are any notes about relief and special circumstances. Understanding your contract will help when you contact the lender. Double-check the documentation on consumer rights. For more information about your contract, take a look at our Adequate Explanation videos.

Contact your lender

Once you have reviewed your paperwork, the next step is to contact your financial provider directly. We can also provide you with the contact details for most of My Car Credit’s panel of lenders.

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) requires all lenders to work with their customers to come to a fair and appropriate financial arrangement. If an individual or household income has been affected directly by COVID-19, lenders are offering payment holidays of up to three months which should allow you to keep the car moving forward.

Handing your car back

During the COVID-19 pandemic, lenders should, wherever possible, consider offering a solution that will enable you to keep your vehicle (if that is your wish), ensuring you can afford any monthly payments and allowing you to retain contractual rights such as voluntary termination.

If your car is financed by a Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) or Hire Purchase, you are allowed to hand it back to the finance company if you have already paid off 50% or more of the total amount payable, including any interest and fees. Note that if you cancel the contract, you will not get any extra money back. If you have yet to pay off 50% of the total amount payable, you will have to make up the difference.

As per your agreement with the lender, charges may apply for damage to the car over and above reasonable wear and tear. You may also incur a fee for ending the agreement early.

In many cases, you will be able to keep your vehicle. Even if you’re coming to the end of your PCP agreement, you can refinance the balloon payment instead of paying a large lump sum of cash to keep the vehicle. This is something that My Car Credit can help you with so get in touch if you think balloon refinancing is the right option for you.

Expert financial advice and support

My Car Credit can help you throughout this troubling time. We make the car finance process simple and hassle-free. Our agents are experts in the industry and stay updated on the latest offerings and relief available throughout the pandemic. For more information, call us on 01246 458 810 or email us at enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you.

If you are concerned about the financial impacts of COVID-19 or are experiencing financial difficulties, the following not-for-profit organisations also provide free, confidential and impartial debt advice and support:

Citizens Advice – www.adviceguide.org.uk

National Debtline – www.nationaldebtline.co.uk

Money Advice Service – www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

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Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

or call 01246 458 810

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5 Different Ways to Pay for a Car

white car in dealership being bought using a car loan

Once you have taken a test drive in your shiny new motor, it can be tempting to throw caution to wind and not worry too much about how you’re going to pay for it. Unfortunately, this is all too common for car owners across the UK. Before you sign on any dotted line, you should know how you aim to pay for the vehicle, whether you decide to hand over cash or take out car finance.

If you’re in the market for your next ‘new-to-you’ vehicle, take a look at the different ways to pay for a car.

How to pay for a car

Cash
As long as you’d have enough savings left over to cover other major purchases or unexpected costs in the future, paying cash is a great way to buy a car. Paying cash means that you own the vehicle straight away. If you get into financial difficulties, you have the option to sell the vehicle and keep the cash from the sale. If you have a car finance agreement such as a leasing or hire purchase, this isn’t possible.
If you don’t have quite enough savings to buy the car outright, you could use them to give you the biggest deposit possible, so you end up spending less on loan interest.
Before you pay cash, think about your future finances. Are you planning any other large purchases over the next few years, such as buying a house? If so, you may want to save some cash and consider financing the vehicle.
Hire Purchase
This option is increasingly popular for the purchase of new cars. Typically, you will put down a deposit of 10%, and then make fixed monthly payments over an agreed time period. This means that you won’t own the vehicle until the last payment has been made. However, this route does make purchasing a vehicle more manageable. Even those motorists with poor credit can get accepted for car financing.
Hire purchase agreements are convenient to arrange and can be competitive for newer vehicles. There is also a fixed interest rate and monthly payments with no annual mileage conditions or fines for wear and tear.
Personal Contract Purchase (PCP)
This type of car finance deal is similar to a hire purchase agreement, but you usually make lower monthly payments. With a personal contract purchase, you have an ‘optional final payment’ at the end of the car finance plan, often referred to as the ‘balloon payment.’ You are able to defer some of the cost of the car to be paid at the end of the plan, making the monthly payments cheaper.
Instead of getting a loan for the total cost of the car, you get a loan for the difference between its sale price and its predicted value at the end of the hire agreement.
In a PCP, you decide how much of a deposit you want to make and estimate your annual mileage and the length of the contract. Typically, this type of car finance plan is between 3 and 5 years.
At the end of the term, you can:
• Trade the car in and start over again;
• Hand the car back to the dealer and pay nothing; or
• Pay a final payment (balloon payment) and keep the vehicle.
Conditional Sale
A conditional sale is similar to a hire purchase agreement, but you pay higher monthly payments and don’t have a fee to pay at the end of the term. Like a hire purchase, you do not own the car until the car finance plan has been paid in full. Typically, you put down 10% of the car’s value as a deposit, and repayment terms last between 2 and 6 years, making this option ideal for those who want to keep the car at the end of the plan without paying a final fee.
Credit Cards
Using a credit card to buy your new car can be a cost-effective way of getting a new set of wheels that allows you to buy the car outright on the day. To buy all or a portion of a car with a credit card, you must first ask the dealer if they accept credit card payments as many do not. If they do, they could charge a hefty processing fee that you need to consider.
It is best to use a credit card that has a 0% interest offer to buy the car outright and then split the repayments over the interest-free period so that the balance is cleared by the time you’re due to be charged interest.
Putting your new car on a credit card gives you repayment flexibility as long as you meet the minimum payment every month. However, if you only repay the minimum repayment every month, it may take much longer to repay your borrowing amount.

Getting a car on finance? Here’s what to look out for

Before you take out a car on finance, here are a few things to look out for:

• Make sure you can afford the monthly payment – not just now, but for the whole term of the loan.
• Ask the lender what will happen if you struggle to pay one month, and what options you have if you couldn’t afford to pay.
• Compare the total cost of borrowing, including all charges over the full term of the loan.
• Compare interest rates from different lenders. Remember that a larger deposit usually means you have a lower interest rate.
• Consider working with car credit specialists to land the right finance plan.

Find out if you can get car finance

At My Car Credit, we aim to help you through every step of the car finance process to make the process as hassle-free as possible.
For an instant quote, and to see what car finance plan you can be eligible for, please use our simple car finance calculator.

We are open 7 days a week, and our website is full of helpful tips, guidelines and answers to any questions you have.
For more information, call us on 01246 458 810 or email us at enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

What is a Guarantor Loan?

How to Strengthen Your Eligibility for Car Finance

I want to buy a car on finance, how much can I borrow?

Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

or call 01246 458 810

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Can I Pay a Car Loan with a Credit Card?

Woman paying her car loan using a black credit card online

Buying a car can be expensive. When you're in the market for a new or used vehicle, it's smart to shop around to ensure you're getting the right car at the best price. Part of this is considering whether to use car financing.

Unless you have enough cash stashed away to pay for your new ride, you’ll need a personal loan or car financing to complete the purchase.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you may be tempted to purchase the car through a credit card. But can you buy a new car with a credit card? Will you have to pay interest? They’re both good questions – here’s what you should know.

Can I buy a car with a credit card?

Since the Consumer Credit Act of 1974, there have been a lot of changes to the options consumers have when using a credit card. So, the simple answer is yes – you can purchase a card with a credit card. But before you do, you should find out if the dealership even offers that option.

A good early question is whether or not they accept credit cards. Most of the time, they won’t let you charge the entire purchase price of your car. Some dealers will have a limit on the value of an individual purchase, so check before you sign up.

The process of buying a car on a credit card is the same as buying anything else on a credit card. The full amount is charged to the card, and then you pay the credit card company back over time while paying interest on the outstanding amount.

Unlike some other loans, you won’t have to pay a set amount each month. This gives you more freedom to choose how much you pay back each month, as long as you meet the minimum monthly direct debit payments.

Are there downsides to buying a car on credit?

As mentioned previously, certain car dealerships may not accept credit cards as complete payment for a car purchase. If a dealership does accept credit card payments, be aware that there may be a surcharge, which is often an unexpected expense.

If you don’t qualify for a 0% rate with a credit card provider, keep in mind that the typical APR rate is 10-15%, which is higher than a typical bank loan. Since most 0% deals also only last a couple of years, it would be best to either pay off the card before the 0% offer ends or transfer the balance to another card. In this case, it can be difficult and time-consuming to keep on top of it to avoid unnecessary fees or unwanted credit card debt.

Top Tip: If APR is new to you, read our guide on car loan APR.

When should you consider buying a car with a credit card?

If you’re thinking about buying a new or used car with a 0% interest rate offer, then it can make sense to charge it to your credit card. Before you go this route, however, make sure you can afford to pay off your car quickly. If you don’t, you may end up paying standard APR rates – which are higher than the rates you’d receive from a good car financing company.

Secure, reliable car financing

While you can buy a car with a credit card, doing so isn’t always the right decision. With My Car Credit, securing reliable and affordable car financing has never been easier.

We’re a fully FCA-compliant credit card company, so our customers know exactly what they’re getting from us. We work with a range of motorists to find the right finance plan that suits their needs, from people with poor credit to those who are self-employed.

To get started on your tailored car financing, use our free car finance calculator and then apply to get a decision on car finance without impacting your credit profile. We look forward to working with you to help you pay for your next car.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

5 Different Ways to Pay for a Car

7 Advantages of Used Car Hire Purchase

How Does Auto Finance Work?

Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

or call 01246 458 810

car finance options car loan credit card Jan24

Can I Buy a Car Using a Credit Card? (Updated for 2025)

Man handing over blue credit card to buy a car

It's one of the most common car-buying questions in the UK – can I buy a car with a credit card? Whether you're eyeing up a shiny new set of wheels or planning to upgrade your current runaround, it's easy to see the appeal. With 0% interest offers, cashback rewards and the added protection of credit card purchases, it can seem like a smart way to fund a major purchase.

After all, the idea of racking up enough points for your next holiday just by buying a car? Tempting. And we can’t deny, sipping a cocktail you technically earned via your car’s alloy wheels does have a certain appeal.

But is it really that simple? Well, yes and no. While it’s technically possible to buy a car using a credit card, it comes with some pretty big caveats. In fact, many buyers find that traditional car finance offers more flexibility, structure and long-term savings than sticking it on plastic.

Here’s everything you need to know about buying a car on a credit card in 2025, plus why car finance might be a better fit for most drivers.

Can you really buy a car with a credit card in the UK?

Short answer – yes.

Long answer – not always…

Plenty of UK car buyers ask this question, especially when tempted by a 0% interest deal or a shiny new rewards card with bucketloads of points. And while using a credit card to pay for a car is possible, there are some fairly strict conditions attached.

So, when does it work?

The answer to can you pay for a car on credit card depends on three key things:

The seller

Not all dealerships accept credit cards, especially for full payment. Some allow it for deposits only. Private sellers rarely accept cards at all.

The amount

Larger purchases may exceed your credit limit. Some dealers may cap how much you can pay via card, such as £500 or £1,000.

Your card provider and limit

A credit limit of £10,000+ isn’t guaranteed, even if your income is healthy. And if you do have a high limit, you’ll need to manage your utilisation carefully.

In most cases, credit cards are accepted for deposits only, rather than the full amount. But this can still be useful if you want to buy a car with a credit card, as you’ll see in the next section.

Why pay for a car using a credit card?

Despite the hurdles, there are a few reasons some buyers still consider using a credit card. Either for the full amount (when allowed) or just the deposit. Here’s where it can work in your favour:

Section 75 Protection

If you use your credit card to pay for even part of a purchase costing between £100 and £30,000, you may be protected under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act. That means if something goes wrong (say the dealership goes bust before delivering the car), your card provider is equally liable.

Cashback, points or rewards

Some cards offer cashback or reward points on purchases. For big spends like a car, this could add up quickly. Assuming you pay it off in full before interest kicks in.

0% interest introductory offers

Many credit cards offer an introductory 0% interest period on purchases (sometimes up to 18–24 months). This can make short-term borrowing free, if you’re confident you can repay the balance in time. Of course, most borrowers let their debt sit for a while, which means interest can catch up when you buy a car on credit card.

Flexible repayments

Unlike car finance (which comes with fixed monthly repayments), credit card spending is more flexible. You can overpay one month, underpay the next. Although as convenient as it sounds, this can be a double-edged sword (see next section).

What are the downsides of buying a car on a credit card?

For all its perks, using a credit card to buy a car can backfire. Especially if you’re not careful with repayments.

High interest rates

Unless you clear the balance before your 0% offer ends, credit cards typically charge 19-25% APR or more. This is far higher than most car finance deals. So that “cheap” car could end up costing much more over time.

Not always accepted

Many dealerships either don’t accept credit cards or impose limits on how much you can put on one. If they do accept it, there may be a surcharge (typically 1-3%) that eats into any cashback or rewards.

Credit limit constraints

Most people don’t have a high enough credit limit to cover an entire car purchase, especially for newer models. You also risk hurting your credit score if your balance-to-limit ratio (credit utilisation) shoots up. Limits are why most Brits don’t opt to buy a car with a credit card.

No structured repayment plan

Flexibility is great in theory, but it can lead to poor financial habits. Without a set repayment plan, it’s easier to fall behind or carry a balance for longer than you intended.

Potential credit score impact

Large purchases can reduce your available credit, increase your utilisation ratio and raise red flags for future lenders. Maxing out your credit card now might seem like a good idea, but it could affect your eligibility if you apply for car finance or a mortgage later on.

What if a dealer won’t accept a credit card?

In reality, most main dealers won’t allow full payment by credit card. And even if they do, they may tack on extra fees that will offset any potential benefits. Some will allow a small portion of the payment (like a £500 or £1,000 deposit) to be paid via card, and the rest by bank transfer, loan or finance.

So what can you do?

Always check with the dealership before committing – Don’t assume you can use your card. Confirm their policy first.
Use your card for the deposit only – So long as the payment is over £100, you’ll still unlock Section 75 protection without needing to charge the full amount.
Split the payment – In some cases, you might use part credit card, part car finance. This gives you the best of both worlds.
Ask about alternative payment methods – Some dealers might accept debit cards, bank transfer or finance arranged through a third party like My Car Credit.

Things to consider before buying a car with a credit card

It’s tempting to reach for the plastic, especially when there’s a shiny 0% offer on the table or a huge points bonus. But before you buy a car with a credit card, ask yourself the following:

Can you repay the balance before interest kicks in?

If not, it could cost far more than you bargained for.

Will the dealership charge a fee?

Even a 2% surcharge on a £15,000 car is £300. In other words – more than most reward schemes will give you back. Be sure to crunch your numbers carefully before you get won over by a supposed deal.

Is your credit limit high enough?

And if it is, can you still afford to keep your utilisation low (ideally under 30%)?

Will a large credit card balance impact future borrowing?

Big spending now could hurt your chances of a good mortgage or loan later. If you’re planning to make an even bigger purchase down the line, it could be worth protecting your credit score now so you can benefit later.

In fact, alternative options like car finance (especially those with structured, on-time repayments) can actually help build your credit score over time and show lenders you’re a reliable borrower.

Is there a cheaper, more manageable alternative?

Finance deals often come with better rates and clearer payment plans.

Alternative ways to buy a car in 2025

Choosing to buy a car with a credit card can work in very specific circumstances. The reality? Most UK drivers will benefit more from a structured finance option. And even better, most UK drivers are eligible. Yes, even those with poor credit.

These give you clarity, predictability and often better value, especially over the long term.

Hire purchase (HP)

Pay a deposit, then monthly instalments. Once all payments are made, you own the car outright. It’s simple, transparent and ideal if you want full ownership at the end.

Personal contract purchase (PCP)

Typically comes with lower monthly payments than HP. You have the option to buy the car at the end (by paying a final “balloon” payment), return it or trade it in.

Personal loans

If you prefer to own the car from day one and don’t want to go through a dealership finance plan, a personal loan could be a good option. Note: your chances are better with strong personal credit.

All of these alternatives offer clearer repayment terms, more competitive interest rates and usually less stress than relying on your credit card.

Want to know where you stand when it comes to finance? With My Car Credit, you can compare your options easily and check your eligibility using our soft search tool, with absolutely no impact on your credit score.

Worried about your credit score? Don’t be. Chances are, we can help. We work with a wide network of lenders to find matches for applicants with all types of credit scores, from squeaky clean to less-than-perfect.

Should I buy a car on a credit card or use finance instead?

Still tossing up between credit card vs finance. Let’s recap the key pros and cons:

When credit cards might work:

You have a 0% interest offer and can repay quickly
You’re paying a small deposit to unlock Section 75 protection
You want to earn rewards (and the maths still adds up after any fees)
You have a high credit limit and are confident managing large balances

When car finance is the better option:

You need to spread the cost over time without risking high interest
You want predictable monthly payments
You’re buying a more expensive car and need a larger credit facility
You’d rather have a structured repayment plan that fits your budget
You want help from a provider that specialises in car finance

Get car finance that works for you

Choosing to buy a car with a credit card can work in some cases, but it’s rarely the most efficient or affordable route. At My Car Credit, we help you explore car finance options that are tailored to your needs, whether you’ve got excellent credit or you’ve hit a few bumps along the way.

You can use our car finance calculator to get a rough idea of your monthly payments, or check your eligibility with no impact on your credit score thanks to our soft search tool.

Easy online process
Flexible deals for all credit types
Used and new car finance available
Supportive team to guide you every step of the way

So… can you pay for a car on credit card in the UK? Yes, sometimes. But just because you can doesn’t always mean you should. Between card limits, surcharges and sky-high interest rates, there are plenty of reasons to consider dedicated car finance instead.

At My Car Credit, we’re here to help you make the smartest decision for your situation. No pressure, no jargon and no confusing terms. Just honest advice and car finance that fits your lifestyle.

Apply today and let’s get you behind the wheel.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

Financing a Second-Hand Car: 4 Options

I want to buy a car on finance, how much can I borrow?

7 Advantages of Used Car Hire Purchase

Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 13.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 13.85%, 47 monthly payments of £201.38 followed by 1 payment of £211.38 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £2,176.240, total amount payable is £9,676.24.

My Car Credit is a credit broker and not a lender.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

or call 01246 458 810

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