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.

Can I sell my car to Carsa if I have outstanding finance

If your car has outstanding finance, you can only sell your car to Carsa if you are part exchanging. This means you must also buy a car from Carsa.

Do you charge any fees when selling my car to Carsa?

No, our valuation and vehicle purchase service is completely free with no hidden fees.

What condition does my car need to be in for you to purchase it?

We purchase vehicles in various conditions however the condition will affect the valuation. We look for vehicles that are roadworthy safe and legally drivable with no significant accident damage or modifications.

Do you purchase commercial vehicles or only private cars?

We do not purchase commercial vehicles from customers.

What happens if there is an error on my V5 document?

If you notice an error on your V5 you will need to apply for a corrected version through the DVLA before we can complete the purchase. You can do this online at https://www.gov.uk/vehicle-log-book

My car has no service history as it is relatively new and is not yet due its first service - what shall I do?

Please use the Not Yet Due option within our valuation process.

Do you buy cars with mechanical faults or accident damage?

We assess each vehicle individually. Minor mechanical issues or cosmetic damage may be acceptable though this will be reflected in the valuation. We will not be able to purchase your vehicle if there are significant mechanical faults, accident damage or structural damage.

How will I receive payment for my vehicle when selling my car to Carsa?

Payment is processed on the day of your appointment once the sale is complete. Funds are typically transferred directly to your bank account and should arrive within minutes, though in some cases it may take up to 24 hours depending on your bank.

What is the Alloy Wheel Protection plan?

It's a 36-month plan that repairs minor cosmetic damage to your alloy wheels — kerb scuffs, chips and scratches on the wheel face from everyday driving. A mobile technician comes to your home or work; you book through the Shine! Protect app and it's usable from day one with no waiting period. It's a one-off price of £499 with up to 15 repairs across the term. Note it covers alloy wheels only — there's no tyre cover — and it's a maintenance plan, not insurance.

What does the Cosmetic Maintenance Plan cover?

It covers minor everyday damage to your painted body panels: stone chips up to 5mm, and dents, scuffs and scratches up to 30cm wide and 3mm deep where the panel isn't cracked, torn or perforated. On the bonnet, boot and roof only stone chips are covered, not dents or scratches. It doesn't cover glass, lights, wheels, interior, trim, or matt/wrapped/bespoke finishes, and the vehicle must be under 7 years old at the plan start. Repairs are professional cosmetic blends that weatherproof the damage — they're not full factory resprays.

How do I book a repair on my Cosmetic Maintenance Plan?

Submit a request through the Shine! Protect app (iOS or Android), online at apsmartclaim.co.uk, or by calling 01279 456 500. Upload a few photos of the damage and pick the type. Once AutoProtect authorises it, you pay the £25 call-out fee and choose a date and location — home, work or anywhere convenient — and a mobile technician comes to you. Always wait for authorisation before any work goes ahead.

What is the Cosmetic Maintenance Plan?

It's a 36-month plan that sends an award-winning Shine! mobile technician to your home or work to repair minor cosmetic damage to your car's painted body panels — chips, dents, scuffs and scratches from everyday driving. You book through the Shine! Protect app, with up to 4 repairs per visit and up to 21 across the plan (7 per year). It's a one-off price of £449 with a £25 call-out fee per request. It's a maintenance plan, not an insurance product, and isn't regulated by the FCA.

How do I look after my car once Ceramic Coat is applied?

Just wash it with mild car shampoo (not washing-up liquid) and water — no polishing needed, and an automatic wash-and-dry is fine. The coating repels dirt so the car stays cleaner for longer. Two things to keep in mind: remove bird droppings promptly as they're corrosive, and note the coating covers exterior paintwork, alloys, bumpers and side glass but not the front and rear windscreens.

Do I need to reapply Williams Ceramic Coat or have it topped up?

No — it's a one-off application, applied by Carsa at handover, that lasts the lifetime of your ownership. Unlike some paint protection products it doesn't need a yearly top-up or 'enhancer' to keep the gloss or the guarantee. The only thing to remember is a re-validation inspection at Carsa after 5 years to keep the lifetime guarantee in place.

What is Williams F1 Ceramic Coat paint protection?

It's a high-gloss ceramic coating that bonds to your paintwork and protects it against UV, acid rain, traffic grime, tree sap and harsh weathering — so your car keeps its showroom shine and is easier to clean. It's developed by Ultimotive, an Official Licensee of Williams Racing, and tested by SGS and CSIRO for hardness and gloss. It's a one-off application of £499, applied by Carsa at handover, with a lifetime guarantee for as long as you own the car.

Are EV charging cables covered?

The onboard charger inside your car is covered. External charging cables and units — home wallboxes and public chargers — are not, and damage from using non-manufacturer-approved charging equipment isn't covered either.