FAQs

Got Questions? We’ve got answers. Whether you’re buying your first car or trading in your old car, we’re here to make it simple. Explore our FAQs for quick, honest answers about Carsa’s process, prep, finance, handover, and more.

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What is your returns policy?

We don't have a change-of-mind returns policy. That's why we encourage every customer to view and test drive the car before committing - so you can be completely sure it's right for you.

Before collection, every car goes through a comprehensive multi-point inspection, HPI check, and preparation process to ensure it's fit for sale. If there's a genuine issue with the car after you've collected it, our Customer Care team is here to help.

If you're unsure about a vehicle, we'd always recommend booking a test drive first so you can make a confident decision.

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Can I buy a car from Carsa if I live in another country?

Unfortunately we are unable to sell to customers who live outside of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

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What are your opening hours over the festive Christmas period?

All of our stores are running regular hours except for the following days. Please check the stores page for your local branch's usual hours.

  • Christmas Eve (24 Dec): 9am to 2pm
  • Christmas Day (25 Dec): Closed
  • Boxing Day (26 Dec): 10am to 6pm
  • New Year's Eve (31 Dec): 10am to 5pm
  • New Year's Day (1 Jan): 10am to 5pm

You can browse our full range of vehicles online 24/7 at carsa.co.uk, and any enquiries submitted will be picked up when we reopen.

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How does the finance application process work?

Here's how the finance process works once you've decided on a car:

  1. Check your eligibility (optional) — Use our free eligibility tool at carsa.co.uk/car-finance to see your likely APR without affecting your credit score.
  2. Reserve your car — When you reserve and collect, we'll do a soft credit check to confirm your likely APR. This rate is indicative and may change after the full application.
  3. Complete your finance application — You'll either receive a text message with a link to complete your application, receive a call from one of our team to do it over the phone, or you can call us to complete it.
  4. Wait for approval — The finance lender will review your application. They may request additional documents (like proof of income or address).
  5. Book your collection — Once approved, our team will be in touch to arrange your collection date.
  6. Sign at the branch — When you collect your car, you'll sign your finance paperwork in person.

If you have questions about your application status, you can call us on 0330 040 1031 or text us — our SMS service can look up your specific application details.

Finance
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Does Carsa sell cars that have been written off or in accidents?

No. Carsa does not sell Category write-off vehicles. Every car we sell goes through an official Auto Trader Provenance Check, which confirms there's no outstanding finance, theft or write-off history, and verifies the mileage is accurate.

Car Purchase
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Can I use my own external finance to buy a car?

Yes, you're welcome to use finance arranged through your own bank or another lender instead of our in-house options.

If you use external finance, a separate admin fee applies. For full details on fees, please see our administration fees page.

Just let our team know during checkout or when you visit the branch that you'll be paying with your own finance, so we can structure the invoice correctly.

Finance
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When will I receive my V5C logbook?

The V5C logbook is sent to you directly by the DVLA after we register the car in your name. You'll usually receive it within 4 weeks.

You don't need the V5C to drive or tax your car in the meantime. If it's been more than 4 weeks and you haven't received it, contact the DVLA directly.

Car Purchase
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What happens if I miss my appointment or don't show up?

If you can't make your appointment, please let us know as soon as possible so we can reschedule or cancel it for you.

If you don't turn up, your reservation fee won't be refunded. The fee is only refunded when you attend your appointment.

To change or cancel your appointment, please get in touch via our contact page.

Car Purchase
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How do I make a claim on my CarsaCover scratch and dent insurance?

For a carsaCover scratch and dent insurance claim, you would contact the carsaCover insurance team (details would be in your policy documents). Usually, you'll need to provide details of the damage (often photos) and then you'll be guided to an approved repair service. They'll fix the scratch or dent and the insurance covers the cost according to the policy (minus any excess). It's important to report the damage as soon as you can to get the claim started.

How can I claim on my CarsaCover extended warranty policy?

If something goes wrong that’s covered by your carsaCover extended warranty, you should contact either the Warranty administrator or Carsa. To contact us please go to http://go.carsa.co.uk/cc. We'll guide you through the process, which usually involves taking the car to an approved garage or our service centre. The repair facility will diagnose the issue and, if it’s covered under the warranty, they’ll fix it and we’ll handle the costs as per the policy (aside from any excess if applicable). Always reach out to us first to get the claim authorised before carrying out any repairs.

Can I transfer my CarsaCover policy to my new car?

No, extended warranties like CarsaCover are usually tied to the vehicle, not the person. If you get a new car, you would need to purchase a new CarsaCover policy for that car. The existing policy on your old car can’t be transferred over to a different vehicle. In some cases, if you sell the covered car, the warranty can stay with the car for the next owner, but you wouldn't move it onto another vehicle you buy.

When does my CarsaCover policy start?

The CarsaCover policy begins when you take ownership of the car (typically from the delivery or collection date). So you're covered from day one of your ownership under the terms of the policy. For example, if you purchase an extended warranty, it will kick in immediately and run for the duration you chose.

My car tax is free, do I need to do anything?

Even if the car is in a zero road tax band, you still need to register it as taxed each year. The process is the same, but you won’t be charged anything. So you’ll need to go online or to the Post Office and 'tax' it (it will show a £0 fee). It’s important to do that so the car is officially recorded as taxed.

How do I get CarsaCover?

You can purchase CarsaCover products when you're buying your car. Our team will offer the extended warranty or insurance options during the sales process. If you decide later, just contact us soon after your purchase and we can still arrange adding it on. It's typically easiest to set up at the time of sale.

What’s included in a Major Service that’s not in a Full Service?

In general, a Major Service is more comprehensive than a Full Service. A Full Service covers the routine maintenance items (oil and filter change, checking important components, etc.). A Major Service typically includes everything in a Full Service plus additional replacements – for example, it might include changing items like spark plugs, air filters, brake fluid, and other filters or wear items that aren’t replaced at every service. Essentially, the Major Service is a bigger check-up that covers more parts and goes deeper (often done every few years), whereas a Full Service is the regular annual service.

How experienced and qualified are Carsa’s technicians?

Our technicians are highly qualified and experienced. They are trained professionals who specialise in inspecting and preparing used cars to a high standard. Every car undergoes a rigorous inspection by our technicians, who have lots of experience in the motor trade. In short, you can trust that knowledgeable, certified mechanics have checked over and serviced your car before sale.

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