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.

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.

Can I use my own external finance to buy a car?

Yes, you're welcome to use finance arranged through your own bank or another lender instead of our in-house options.

If you use external finance, a separate admin fee applies. For full details on fees, please see our administration fees page.

Just let our team know during checkout or when you visit the branch that you'll be paying with your own finance, so we can structure the invoice correctly.

When will I receive my V5C logbook?

The V5C logbook is sent to you directly by the DVLA after we register the car in your name. You'll usually receive it within 4 weeks.

You don't need the V5C to drive or tax your car in the meantime. If it's been more than 4 weeks and you haven't received it, contact the DVLA directly.

What happens if I miss my appointment or don't show up?

If you can't make your appointment, please let us know as soon as possible so we can reschedule or cancel it for you.

If you don't turn up, your reservation fee won't be refunded. The fee is only refunded when you attend your appointment.

To change or cancel your appointment, please get in touch via our contact page.

What does it mean when a car is 'in preparation'?

When a car shows as 'in preparation', it means it's still going through our checks and reconditioning process. During this time, the car can't be reserved or booked for a test drive.

We would recommend leaving an enquiry on the car's page. This will ensure you are notified when the vehicle is ready.

How do I make a claim on my Cosmetic Maintenance plan?

Need to get some cosmetic damage looked at? No problem – if you have purchased Cosmetic Maintenance, your plan is there to help.

First, you'll need to check who your plan is with. Have a look at your policy documents – your provider will be either GardX or Shine.

If you're with GardX, see: How do I contact GardX about my plan?
If you're with Shine, see: How do I contact Shine about my plan?

How do I contact Shine about my plan?

If your Cosmetic Maintenance plan is with Shine, here's how to get your repair sorted.

Your Shine! Protect policy is provided by AutoProtect, and the easiest way to make a request is through their app or website.

To make a repair request:

Download the Shine! Protect app (available on Apple and Android – just search "Shine! Protect")
Or submit online at www.shineprotect.co.uk

You'll need to provide:

Your registration number from your agreement
Your postcode
Your surname
Where the damage is on the car
What type of damage it is
A photo of the damage

If your damage is covered, you'll be able to pick a date, time and location for the repair, then pay the call-out charge. You'll get a confirmation with all your appointment details.

One important thing: Please don't go ahead with any repairs without getting approval first – otherwise you might not be covered.

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How do I contact GardX about my plan?

If your Cosmetic Maintenance, Tyre & Alloy, or Paint Protection plan is with GardX, here's how to get in touch and make a claim.

To book a Maintenance Inspection:

Contact your local Carsa branch in the first instance – they'll be happy to help
If your branch can't complete the inspection for any reason, give GardX a call on 0203 192 1425 or email requests@gardx.co.uk and they'll find another approved agent for you
You'll need to have a copy of your Customer Schedule and terms and conditions handy

To request a Treatment:

Head to your personalised Customer Care Portal at myaccount.gardxconnect.com

To log in, you'll need the details from your Customer Schedule:

Your surname
Vehicle registration
Email address
Mobile number

If any of these details are missing or incorrect, drop an email to assureservices@gardxgroup.com or call 0203 192 1425 and they'll get it sorted.

One important thing: Please don't go ahead with any treatments or repairs without getting the go-ahead from GardX first – otherwise you might not be covered.

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How do I make a claim on my Tyre & Alloy Wheel Maintenance plan?

Got some damage to your tyres or alloys? Your maintenance plan should have you covered.

Your Tyre & Alloy plan is provided by GardX. Here's how to get in touch:

To book a Maintenance Inspection:

Contact your local Carsa branch in the first instance – they'll be happy to help
If your branch can't complete the inspection for any reason, give GardX a call on 0203 192 1425 or email requests@gardx.co.uk and they'll find another approved agent for you
You'll need to have a copy of your Customer Schedule and terms and conditions handy

To request a Treatment:

Head to your personalised Customer Care Portal at myaccount.gardxconnect.com

To log in, you'll need the details from your Customer Schedule:

Your surname
Vehicle registration
Email address
Mobile number

If any of these details are missing or incorrect, drop an email to assureservices@gardxgroup.com or call 0203 192 1425 and they'll get it sorted.

One important thing: Please don't go ahead with any treatments or repairs without getting the go-ahead from GardX first – otherwise you might not be covered.