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 do I make a warranty claim?

If something's gone wrong with your car and you think it's covered by your warranty, don't worry – we'll help you get it sorted.

Whether you're covered by your 90-day warranty or a Carsa extended warranty, claims are handled by AutoProtect. Here's how to make a claim:

Contact AutoProtect directly:

The claims process:

  1. Report the issue – Give AutoProtect a call or drop them an email to let them know what's happening with your vehicle.
  2. Get a diagnosis – AutoProtect will usually ask for a diagnosis from a garage. You can use any VAT-registered garage, but we'd recommend one you know and trust, a specialist for your vehicle type, or your local Carsa branch.
  3. Submit your claim – Once you have the diagnosis, get back in touch with AutoProtect and they'll guide you through the next steps.
  4. Need extra help? – If you've spoken to AutoProtect and are still having trouble, our Customer Care team are happy to help: Contact Customer Care

One important thing: Please don't arrange or pay for any repairs before your claim has been authorised – otherwise you might not be covered.

Car Care
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How do I tax my car when I collect it?

You'll need to tax the car before you can legally drive it away. Don't worry – we make this easy. We record the 12-digit document reference number from the V5C in our system, and when you collect your car, our team will help you tax it on-site using the DVLA website. It only takes a couple of minutes. You won't usually receive the green new keeper slip (V5C/2) at handover, but you don't need it – we have the reference number ready for you.

Delivery and collection
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What’s the difference between PCP & HP finance?

PCP usually offers lower monthly payments and greater flexibility if you like to change cars every few years. However, you’ll need to pay a balloon payment if you want to own the car outright. HP has higher monthly payments, but once the final payment is made, the car is automatically yours.

Finance
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What is Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) finance?

PCP is a more flexible type of finance where part of the cost is deferred into a final “balloon payment” (known as the Guaranteed Future Value). At the end of the agreement, you can choose to:

  • Pay the balloon payment to own the car.
  • Hand the car back, as long as it’s in good condition and within mileage limits.
  • Trade it in for another car, using any value left over as your deposit.

To see how this looks in practice, find a car on our website and use the finance calculator — you can adjust the deposit, term, and mileage to see how payments change.

If you want to see if you might be eligible for PCP, you can check your eligibility with our finance eligibility checker.

Finance
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What is Hire Purchase (HP) finance?

HP is a simple and straightforward type of finance. You pay a deposit, then fixed monthly instalments over an agreed term. Once all payments (and any small option-to-purchase fee) have been made, the car is yours. HP is a good option if you know you want to own the car outright at the end of the agreement.

If you want to see if you might be eligible for HP, you can check your eligibility with our finance eligibility checker.

Finance
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Can I get two cars on finance?

Yes, some customers are able to take finance on more than one vehicle, as long as their credit profile and affordability are strong enough. Lenders may ask for extra documents or a clear reason for needing a second car.

Finance
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Can I get finance with no UK credit history?

Yes, some specialist lenders will consider customers with no UK credit history, although they may ask for additional documents. These can include proof of your right to remain in the UK, two proofs of address, and an international driving licence. 

If you’re unsure, check your eligibility with our finance tool — it’s a simple way to see whether you’re likely to be eligible for car finance

Finance
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Can I get finance if I have negative equity or an existing car on finance?

It can be possible. Some lenders will work with customers who have existing finance or a small amount of negative equity (where the car is worth less than the outstanding balance). For example, if you part-exchange your car, the existing finance can sometimes be settled as part of the new deal.

To understand how much negative equity you have, you can get a part exchange quote on our website by following this link or by calling us up and speaking to an agent.

Finance
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Is the £39 reservation fee really refundable?

If you view/test‑drive the car and decide not to buy, we refund the full deposit immediately.

What is the Tyre & Alloy Maintenance Plan?

An optional quarterly inspection plan covering puncture repairs (and up to 5 tyre replacements) plus minor alloy scuff repairs or contributions toward replacements.

What makes Carsa different from other used car sellers?

You get rigorous inspections, transparent history, a free warranty, and friendly nationwide service. Our prices are also on average £700 below the market average.

Are there any extra fees I should be aware of?

Just a clear £149 admin fee covering inspection, HPI certificate, DVLA registration and the 3‑month warranty. All optional extras are quoted up‑front.

How does Carsa ensure its used cars are high quality?

Every Carsa vehicle undergoes a thorough vehicle inspection and has an Autotrader provenance check so you can trust its condition and background.

Do Carsa vehicles come with an MOT and service history?

All cars are sold with a valid MOT. Any available service history is provided, and our team is transparent about prior usage so you know exactly what you’re buying.

Are Carsa’s cars history‑checked (Auto Trader Provenance Check)?

Yes. We run an official Autotrader Provenance Check. This confirm that there is no outstanding finance, theft or write‑off history, and to verify mileage.

Can I extend or upgrade my warranty?

Yes. You can add an Extended Warranty at the point of purchase — a one-off price for 12, 24, 36 or 48 months of cover on top of your free 90-day warranty, administered by AutoProtect. There's a dedicated EV Extended Warranty for electric vehicles too. It's optional, and your Carsa team will talk you through the options and price at handover.

Search for your next car today

Explore our extensive selection of quality used cars and find the perfect match for you.

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