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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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.

Finance
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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.

Finance
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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.

Finance
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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.

Finance
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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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How much warranty is left on the car I’m looking to buy?

Cars come with a manufacturer warranty when new, usually lasting a set number of years or miles. How much cover is left will depend on the car’s age, mileage and the manufacturer’s terms, so we can’t guarantee this for every vehicle. The best way to confirm the exact cover is to check directly with the manufacturer.

If you’d like extra cover, we have warranty products available at the time of purchase.

Car Purchase
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How many keys will my new car come with?

A lot of our vehicles do come with two keys, but we can only guarantee that each car has at least one. If the car has two keys, we’ll provide both.Because keys can occasionally be misplaced or damaged during transport or preparation, we can only confirm the exact number at the point of test drive. To secure your car for a test drive, simply find it on our website and book with a refundable deposit.

Car Purchase
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Can I see the battery health report for a specific electric vehicle?

All electric cars use manufacturer-made batteries that are designed to last many years. Modern electric car batteries are carefully managed with cooling systems and safety margins, so they usually last for the lifetime of the car. We don’t provide battery health reports ourselves, so for the most up-to-date details on battery health or warranty cover, please check directly with the manufacturer.

Car Purchase
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What is the difference between an instant and guaranteed valuation?

An instant valuation gives you an estimated price based on the information you provide online and some presumptions we have made about your vehicle. A guaranteed valuation is our detailed offer after you have shared additional information with us and this is the amount we commit to paying subject to the vehicle matching the details provided at your handover inspection.

What do I need to bring to my appointment?

Please bring your vehicle, your photo card driving licence and your V5C logbook. Please bring all service records you have for your vehicle. We would also recommend giving your car a clean beforehand as it helps us assess the condition more accurately.

Do I need to inform my insurance company before the handover?

You should maintain insurance on your vehicle until the sale is complete. After your handover appointment contact your insurance company to cancel your policy. You may be entitled to a refund for any remaining months of coverage.

Can I reschedule or cancel my appointment?

Yes please call us as soon as possible and we will find you a new slot.

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.

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