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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How much car finance can I get?

There isn’t one set amount, because it depends on your income, credit history, affordability checks and budget. For example, someone with a stable income and strong credit profile may be approved for more finance than someone with limited income.

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.

If you want to understand what your APR may be, and how much you could afford, use our free eligibility checker. This won’t impact your credit score and takes a couple of minutes.

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Can I get a car on finance?

In most cases, yes — as long as you meet a lender’s criteria. That means being at least 18, living in the UK, and showing proof of income. From there, the amount and type of finance available to you depends on your personal circumstances. 

Our free eligibility checker will give you a view on whether you’re likely to be eligible for car finance. This won’t impact your credit score.

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Am I eligible for car finance if I’m self-employed, on a zero-hours contract or not in full-time work?

Yes, you can still apply for finance if you’re self-employed, work irregular hours, or don’t have a full-time contract. Lenders may simply ask for extra proof of income — such as recent payslips, bank statements, or tax returns. If you’re unsure how this might apply to you, our eligibility tool is the fastest way to check without impacting your credit score.

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Can I get car finance if I’m on benefits or Universal Credit?

Yes, some lenders will consider applications from people who receive benefits or Universal Credit, as long as you can show a steady income and demonstrate you can manage the repayments. A good credit history will make acceptance more likely. 

If you’re not sure, use our free eligibility tool to see whether you’re likely to be eligible for car finance. This is free and won’t impact your credit score.

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Can I get car finance?

If you’re over 18, live in the UK, and can prove your income, there’s a good chance you’ll be eligible for finance through one of our lending partners. Final approval will depend on your credit history and affordability checks. 

The easiest way to be sure is to run a quick check with our eligibility tool.

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Can I get car finance on a provisional licence?

Some lenders will consider applications from customers with a provisional licence, although you’ll have more options once you pass your driving test. With a provisional, lenders may limit the amount they’re willing to lend, or ask for extra steps such as a joint hirer or proof of a booked test date.

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Can I get car finance with bad credit, CCJs, IVAs or bankruptcy?

Having a poor credit history doesn’t automatically mean you’ll be declined. At Carsa, we work with a wide panel of lenders, some of whom specialise in customers with CCJs, IVAs or even past bankruptcies. Approval can be more challenging, and you may be asked for extra proof of income, or, in the case of an IVA, consent from your insolvency company.

The best way to check is to use our free finance eligibility tool. It shows you your options instantly without leaving a mark on your credit file.

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How can I get car finance?

At Carsa, we make it easy to apply for finance in the way that suits you best. You can:

  • Apply online by finding a car on site and then selecting Reserve & Collect
  • Speak with a specialist over the phone for tailored advice.
  • Visit a Carsa showroom and apply in person.

Lenders will normally check your income, credit profile, and ID, and may ask for extra documents such as bank statements or payslips. If you’re unsure whether you’ll be accepted, our free eligibility tool is the best place to start. It won’t affect your credit score, and it gives you a clear idea of your options.

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Can I add my personal number plate to my new car before it's delivered?

We can help with that. Typically, your car will initially be registered with its existing number plate. To add your personal plate, you’d go through the normal DVLA process. We’ll act on your behalf to facilitate the transfer if you’d like – just let us know. You’d need to pay any DVLA fees for the plate transfer. Usually, we’ll deliver the car with the original plate, and then help you swap to your private plate soon after.

Do you allow walk-ins at a Carsa Store?

We do prefer that you book an appointment, because our cars are kept secure and we prepare them for scheduled viewings. You’re welcome to drop in, but if you haven’t booked, we can’t guarantee the specific car you want to see will be readily available or on-site. To avoid any wait or disappointment, it’s best to arrange a viewing/test drive slot beforehand.

Can I book an appointment at a Carsa Store?

Yes – you can schedule an appointment to visit a Carsa Store. In fact, we recommend booking an appointment (especially for test drives) so we can ensure the car you’re interested in is ready and waiting for you. You can book online through our website or simply give us a call, and we’ll set up a convenient time for you.

Can I change or cancel my in-store appointment?

No problem at all. If you need to change or cancel your appointment, just let us know as soon as you can. You can contact the store or our customer support, and we’ll help you reschedule or cancel the booking. We understand that plans change – we’ll work with you to find a new time if needed.

Can you help me choose the right car when I visit a Carsa Store?

Certainly. When you visit a Carsa Store, our team will be more than happy to assist you in finding the right car. You can tell us what you’re looking for (budget, size, features, etc.), and our friendly advisors will help point you towards options that fit your needs. We’re there to make the car-buying process easier for you.

Will I be given any previous service history, MOT certificates or other documents with my car?

Yes, of course. We will hand over any available documents when you get the car. That includes things like the car’s service book or print-out of its service history, the latest MOT certificate (if applicable), and any other papers (like the user manual or spare key info). The V5C logbook will be sent to you by the DVLA after the sale is registered, but everything else we have, we’ll pass to you at collection or delivery.

Can I book an MOT through Carsa?

Yes, we do. Carsa has service centres that can handle MOTs (as well as servicing and repairs). You can book an MOT through our Carsa Service website or by contacting one of our service centres directly. We have dedicated service locations (for example in Bolton, Cannock, Halesowen, and Towcester) ready to help with MOTs and maintenance.

Do you sell cars that have been in an accident or are a ‘write off’?

No, we don’t sell cars that have been written off or in serious accidents. Every vehicle we stock undergoes thorough history checks (for theft, write-off status, etc.), and we only sell cars with a clean title. So you won’t find any Category C/N/S/D write-offs in our inventory. If a car has had minor repairs in the past, that can happen, but anything that was an insurance write-off is not sold by Carsa.

Search for your next car today

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Talk to a real person, anytime.

Our friendly team is just a message or call away.

Email

Reach us anytime at your convenience.

sales@carsa.co.uk

Phone

Call us for quick support and guidance.

0330 040 1031