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.

Where’s my nearest Carsa store?

To find your nearest Carsa branch, you can use the location finder on our website or get in touch with us with your postcode. We have about 10 Carsa Stores around the country. Let us know where you are, and we’ll point you to the closest one.

How long does each CarsaCover policy last?

It depends on the specific CarsaCover product. For example, extended warranty can be purchased for different durations (one year, two years, up to four years). Cosmetic insurance policies (like scratch & dent, alloy, tyre) often last for a fixed term, usually 1 to 3 years. The exact length will be chosen by you at purchase and will be clearly stated in your policy documents. Typically, all these coverages start from your purchase date and run for the selected term.

What happens when my CarsaCover policy ends?

When your cover period ends, that protection simply expires. If you want to continue having cover, you might have the option to extend or renew it (for example, purchase another year of extended warranty if the car is still eligible). Otherwise, any claims after expiration wouldn't be covered. We or Assurant might contact you near the end of the term with renewal options if available.

Who do you work with to provide CarsaCover?

We partner with Assurant to provide our CarsaCover products. Assurant is a leading insurance provider that underwrites and administers the extended warranty and related protection plans. So while Carsa offers the cover, it’s backed and managed by Assurant to ensure a reliable service.

Do I get breakdown assistance with the extended warranty?

No — our extended warranty doesn't include breakdown cover or roadside recovery membership. What it does include is a £50 contribution towards vehicle recovery if you need it as part of a valid claim. If you'd like ongoing breakdown cover, you'd need to arrange a separate breakdown policy.

What’s the CarsaCover cancellation policy?

You can cancel CarsaCover policies if needed. Typically, there's a cooling-off period (often 14 days from purchase) where you can cancel for a full refund, provided you haven't made a claim. If you cancel after that period, you may receive a pro-rata refund for the unused portion, minus any admin fee, depending on the specific terms of the policy. It's best to check your CarsaCover policy documents for the exact cancellation terms, or contact us and we'll help you with the process.

How can I make a claim on my CarsaCover tyre insurance policy?

To claim on the CarsaCover tyre insurance, please go to http://go.carsa.co.uk/cc and fill in the form. One of the members of our team will reach out. Let them know which tyre was damaged and how. They will usually direct you to an approved tyre center or send an inspector. If the damage is covered (like irreparable punctures or sidewall damage, depending on the policy terms), they will authorize replacement of the tyre. Follow their instructions and the tyre will be replaced under the policy (you may need to pay any excess if applicable).

Does CarsaCover cover pre-existing damage?

No, any pre-existing damage or issues wouldn’t be covered by a CarsaCover policy. Extended warranties and insurance plans cover you for new problems that occur after the policy starts. For example, if your car already had a scratch or a mechanical fault before taking out CarsaCover, that wouldn’t be claimable. CarsaCover is there to protect you going forward against unexpected repairs or new accidental damage.

Should I cancel tax and insurance?

Yes, but only after you've handed the car over. It needs to stay taxed and insured up until then, especially if you're still driving it.

Do I need to tell the DVLA after I part exchange?

Yes, once you hand over your car, it's your responsibility to inform the DVLA. You can do this online or by sending them the yellow slip (V5C/3) from your logbook.

Do I need to bring my car to a Carsa store?

If you're collecting your new car in person, yes, bring your part exchange with you. If you're having your new car delivered, we'll arrange to collect your old one when we drop off the new one.

What if my car has a private plate?

If you want to keep it, you'll need to put it on retention with the DVLA before handover. If not, we can leave it on the car, just let us know your preference and we'll handle the rest. You can remove your private plate here: https://www.gov.uk/personalised-vehicle-registration-numbers/take-private-number-off

What if my car has damage or modifications?

We assess each vehicle individually. Minor cosmetic damage or modifications may be acceptable and will be reflected in your valuation. However, we're unable to purchase vehicles with significant mechanical faults, accident damage, or structural damage. Please provide accurate details during the valuation process so we can give you an accurate quote.

What if it doesn't have a full service history?

We can still value and purchase your vehicle without a full service history. During the valuation process, you can select 'Partial Service History' if some records are missing, or 'No Service History' if you have none. This may affect your valuation, but it won't prevent us from buying your car.

Can I part exchange a car that's not in my name?

Yes, that's fine, as long as there's no outstanding finance. The person named on the V5C just needs to be present at handover and sign a quick consent form.

Can I part exchange if my car's on finance?

Yes, you can. We'll help you settle any remaining finance using the value of your current car. If your car's worth more than what you owe, the leftover amount goes towards your next one. If it's worth less, you can just pay the difference upfront.