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.

How do I know I'm getting a fair price?

We base your valuation on real-time market data from similar cars across the UK, so you get a competitive, no-haggle offer right from the start.

Who can I contact if I need help or have questions?

Our sales team & customer care team are available to call on 0330 040 1031 or email sales@carsa.co.uk / customercare@carsa.co.uk. We are happy to help before or after your purchase.

What payment methods do you accept?

Deposits up to £200 can be paid by card; balances must be by bank transfer or finance. We cannot accept large cash payments.

Can I add extras like paint protection or a dash cam?

Yes. Options include GardX lifetime paint/interior protection, Nextbase dash cams, and a Tyre & Alloy Care Plan. After placing your order you can discuss these options with a representative.

Do you offer financing options for buying a car?

We’re FCA‑authorised and work with several lenders to offer HP or PCP finance. You can also use outside finance (a separate admin fee may apply).

Is the car taxed and insured when I buy it?

You'll need to arrange road tax and insurance from the day you take ownership. When you collect the car, our team will help you tax it on-site using the document reference number we have on record – it only takes a couple of minutes. We handle the DVLA registration transfer for you.

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Do you offer dash cams or other accessories with the car?

Yes. We can supply and install Nextbase front‑and‑rear dash cams and other accessories like tailored mats—just let us know at checkout.

What is GardX paint and interior protection?

GardX is a nano‑coating applied by professionals that forms a durable ‘second skin’ over paint and fabric/leather, backed by a lifetime guarantee.

What is your returns policy?

We don't have a change-of-mind returns policy. That's why we encourage every customer to view and test drive the car before committing - so you can be completely sure it's right for you.

Before collection, every car goes through a comprehensive multi-point inspection, HPI check, and preparation process to ensure it's fit for sale. If there's a genuine issue with the car after you've collected it, our Customer Care team is here to help.

If you're unsure about a vehicle, we'd always recommend booking a test drive first so you can make a confident decision.

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Can I buy a car from Carsa if I live in another country?

Unfortunately we are unable to sell to customers who live outside of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

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What are your opening hours over the festive Christmas period?

All of our stores are running regular hours except for the following days. Please check the stores page for your local branch's usual hours.

Christmas Eve (24 Dec): 9am to 2pm
Christmas Day (25 Dec): Closed
Boxing Day (26 Dec): 10am to 6pm
New Year's Eve (31 Dec): 10am to 5pm
New Year's Day (1 Jan): 10am to 5pm

You can browse our full range of vehicles online 24/7 at carsa.co.uk, and any enquiries submitted will be picked up when we reopen.

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How does the finance application process work?

Here's how the finance process works once you've decided on a car:

Check your eligibility (optional) — Use our free eligibility tool at carsa.co.uk/car-finance to see your likely APR without affecting your credit score.
Reserve your car — When you reserve and collect, we'll do a soft credit check to confirm your likely APR. This rate is indicative and may change after the full application.
Complete your finance application — You'll either receive a text message with a link to complete your application, receive a call from one of our team to do it over the phone, or you can call us to complete it.
Wait for approval — The finance lender will review your application. They may request additional documents (like proof of income or address).
Book your collection — Once approved, our team will be in touch to arrange your collection date.
Sign at the branch — When you collect your car, you'll sign your finance paperwork in person.

If you have questions about your application status, you can call us on 0330 040 1031 or text us — our SMS service can look up your specific application details.

Does Carsa sell cars that have been written off or in accidents?

No. Carsa does not sell Category write-off vehicles. Every car we sell goes through an official Auto Trader Provenance Check, which confirms there's no outstanding finance, theft or write-off history, and verifies the mileage is accurate.

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.