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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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.

Part Exchange
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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

Part Exchange
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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

Car Purchase
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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.

Finance
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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.

Finance
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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.

Finance
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I’ve changed my mind about part-exchanging – what now?

If you haven’t finalized the purchase yet, just tell us that you no longer want to part-exchange. We can adjust the deal so that you keep your car and pay the full price for the new car (minus any deposit you still want to put in). If you already handed over your part-exchange and completed everything, then the transaction is done and we typically wouldn’t unwind it. But if it’s before or during paperwork, you can back out of the part-exchange portion and we’ll recalculate the transaction without it.

Part Exchange
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When does my contract end?

Your finance contract will end once you’ve made all scheduled payments (and paid any final balloon payment if it’s a PCP). For example, if you took a 48-month term, it ends after the 48th payment (or when the balloon is settled). The specific end date will be listed on your finance agreement. You can also contact your lender to find out the exact date or remaining payments. In short, it ends when the loan is fully paid according to the agreement.

Finance
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How much car finance can I get?

There isn’t one set amount, because it depends on your income, credit history, affordability checks and budget. For example, someone with a stable income and strong credit profile may be approved for more finance than someone with limited income.

If you want to understand how much the monthly payments may be on a vehicle, find a car on our website and use the finance calculator on the page. You can adjust the deposit, term, and mileage (for PCP) to see how the payments change.

If you want to understand what your APR may be, and how much you could afford, use our free eligibility checker. This won’t impact your credit score and takes a couple of minutes.

Can I get a car on finance?

In most cases, yes — as long as you meet a lender’s criteria. That means being at least 18, living in the UK, and showing proof of income. From there, the amount and type of finance available to you depends on your personal circumstances. 

Our free eligibility checker will give you a view on whether you’re likely to be eligible for car finance. This won’t impact your credit score.

Am I eligible for car finance if I’m self-employed, on a zero-hours contract or not in full-time work?

Yes, you can still apply for finance if you’re self-employed, work irregular hours, or don’t have a full-time contract. Lenders may simply ask for extra proof of income — such as recent payslips, bank statements, or tax returns. If you’re unsure how this might apply to you, our eligibility tool is the fastest way to check without impacting your credit score.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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Email

Reach us anytime at your convenience.

sales@carsa.co.uk

Phone

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0330 040 1031