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.

How do I put my private plate onto my new car?

After Carsa registers your new car in your name, the DVLA will post you a new V5. You can then use the document reference number from that V5 to assign your private plate to your new car via the gov.uk website.

I’m part exchanging, but have a private plate on my car. Is there anything I need to consider?

If you don’t want to keep the private plate, the process is simpler as you do not need to put your plate on retention. You will just need to bring your V5, service documents, and spare key. If you want to keep the private plate you will need to put the private plate on retention with the DVLA before your appointment. You can do this here: https://www.gov.uk/personalised-vehicle-registration-numbers/take-private-number-ofOnce you’ve done that, the DVLA will send you a new V5. You must bring the new V5 to your appointment. If you don’t bring the V5, we won’t be able to accept your part exchange. You will also need to bring service documents and a spare key if you have one.

Will a private plate affect my insurance?

Normally, no — private plates don’t affect your premium, as insurers don’t treat them as a modification. Still, it’s best to confirm with your provider.

I’m part exchanging but have lost my V5

You will need your V5 to part exchange a car with Carsa. You can apply for a new V5 on the DVLA website

I’ve booked an appointment, what do I need to bring?

You’ll need to bring your driving licence. If you’re part exchanging, please also bring your V5, service documents, and spare key. If you’re part exchanging and have a private plate, please refer to this FAQ about part exchanging with a private plate

Can I buy a car on finance at a Carsa Store?

Absolutely. If you visit a Carsa branch, our team can help you set up finance on the spot. The process is the same as online: we’ll gather some details and submit the application to our lenders. You can then sign the finance agreement digitally or in person once approved. So even at the store, you can purchase a car with a finance plan.

Can I change my finance application?

If you haven’t finalized your finance agreement yet, yes, we can adjust the application. For example, if you want to change the deposit amount or the length of the term or even the type of finance, we can work that out (it might mean doing a new quote or application, but it’s doable before signing). However, if you’ve already been approved and signed the agreement, changing it would mean cancelling that agreement (which usually you can do in the early cooling-off period) and starting a new one – not an ideal route unless necessary. So definitely speak up about any changes you want before you sign the finance contract. We’re pretty flexible up to that point.

Where’s my PIN to complete e-signing?

When you’re completing the finance e-sign process, the PIN is usually sent via text message to your mobile phone. It’s a one-time code from the lender to confirm it’s you signing the contract. So, check your phone for an SMS from the lender (or sometimes an email if they use that method). If you still can’t find it, let us or the lender know, and they can resend the PIN. It’s a security step – they typically send a 4 or 6 digit code that you then enter to finalize the e-signature.

Can I get car finance without a balloon payment?

Yes. If you’d prefer not to have a balloon (final) payment, a Hire Purchase (HP) agreement might be more suitable. With HP, you make fixed monthly payments until the balance is cleared, and once the final payment is made (plus any small option-to-purchase fee), the car is yours outright.

Are PCP and HP eligibility criteria different?

Yes, they can be. PCP (Personal Contract Purchase) sometimes has stricter criteria, because it involves a larger deferred payment (the optional final payment). HP (Hire Purchase) tends to be more straightforward, as you’re paying the full balance of the car over the term. Ultimately, it depends on the individual lender’s requirements.

Can I get good car finance with a large deposit?

A larger deposit usually lowers your monthly payments and may improve your chances of being accepted. However, on PCP (Personal Contract Purchase) agreements, some lenders cap the maximum deposit you can put down.

If you want to understand how a larger deposit may increase your monthly payments, find a car on our website and use the finance calculator on the page. You can adjust the deposit, term, and mileage (for PCP) to see how the payments change.

‍

Can I get car finance with no deposit?

Yes, many lenders offer no-deposit finance, meaning you can drive away without paying anything upfront. Keep in mind that putting down a deposit can reduce your monthly payments, so it’s worth experimenting with the calculator on our car pages to see the difference.

If you want to understand how much the monthly payments may be on a vehicle, find a car on our website and use the finance calculator on the page. You can adjust the deposit, term, and mileage (for PCP) to see how the payments change.

Can I get a new car with existing finance?

It’s often possible. Some lenders may require you to settle your existing finance agreement first, which can be done by part-exchanging your current car or selling it privately. Others may allow you to take out a second agreement if your credit profile and affordability are strong enough. To see what applies in your case, start with our free eligibility tool.

What documents do I need for a car finance application?

Most lenders will ask for a valid form of ID (such as a driving licence or passport). You may also be asked for recent proof of address and proof of income, such as payslips or bank statements (usually dated within the last 90 days). Some lenders may request additional documents depending on your circumstances.

Can I get rid of my car on finance?

Yes, you can, but you’ll need to settle the outstanding finance balance first. This can be done in a few different ways:

Paying the settlement figure directly to your lender – You can request a settlement figure and pay off the balance in full.
Selling the car privately – Use the proceeds from the sale to clear your finance.
Part-exchanging your car with us – We’ll settle the finance as part of the new deal, and any equity left over can go towards your next car.

You may also have the option of ending your agreement early under what’s called “voluntary termination.” This is where, once you’ve paid (or are willing to pay) around 50% of the total amount payable on your contract, you can hand the car back and walk away. The exact amount will be shown in your agreement, and you may still be liable for charges such as damage or excess mileage.

If you’re within the first 14 days of signing your finance agreement, you also have a cooling-off period, which allows you to withdraw from the contract without penalty.

The rules vary depending on whether your agreement is PCP (Personal Contract Purchase) or HP (Hire Purchase), so it’s always best to check with your finance provider. They’ll confirm your settlement figure and explain your options.

Can I get a payment holiday on car finance?

Whether you can take a payment holiday depends entirely on your finance provider. Some lenders may allow it in certain circumstances, while others may not offer this option at all. If you’re already in an agreement, the best step is to contact your lender directly to discuss what support might be available.