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.

Is EV battery degradation covered?

No. Gradual range loss as your battery ages is normal EV behaviour and isn't covered. The EV extended warranty contributes up to £1,000 towards a replacement only if the battery suddenly fails — it's the single most important distinction to understand on EV cover.

Do I have to use a specific garage for warranty repairs?

You'll need pre-approval from AutoProtect before any repair starts, but once approved the work can be done at a VAT-registered garage of your choice. Labour is contributed up to £100 inc VAT per hour. Repairs arranged without approval won't be covered.

My car still has manufacturer warranty — can I start my extended warranty later?

Yes. You can set it to begin on a future date so it kicks in when your manufacturer cover runs out. That way you're not paying for overlap and you get the full term out of it.

Do I have to keep servicing the car to keep my warranty valid?

Yes. The car must be serviced in line with the manufacturer's schedule (or every 12 months / 12,000 miles if there's no service history), and you should keep your invoices as proof. On EV cover there's a 21-day / 750-mile grace period if you can't service exactly on time, as long as you let AutoProtect know.

Does the extended warranty cover me in Europe?

Yes — up to 90 days per year driving in the Republic of Ireland and mainland Europe. As with any claim, you'll need pre-approval from AutoProtect before any work begins.

Can I transfer my warranty if I sell the car privately?

Yes. You can transfer the remaining cover to a private buyer for a £25 administration fee, which can add real value when you come to sell.

Can I cancel my extended warranty?

You can remove it any time before you take delivery, no problem. Once cover starts it's non-refundable, so it's worth deciding which term suits you before you drive away.

How does wear and tear cover work?

Wear-and-tear failures are covered as long as your car is under 6 years old and under 60,000 miles at the time of claim. Once it passes either threshold, only sudden mechanical breakdowns are covered and wear-related failures stop.

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.