What does APR mean?
APR stands for Annual Percentage Rate. When you borrow money on an agreement regulated by the Consumer Credit Act, lenders are required by law to quote this rate, which calculates the total amount of interest that will be paid over the whole term of the loan while taking into account any additional charges that the borrower has to pay. The APR allows you to compare the cost of finance from different lenders.
How old do I need to be to apply for a loan?
You must be at least 18 years old to enter into a finance agreement under UK law.
Do you carry out a credit search?
Yes, a search of your records at Experian Limited and they will keep details of our search. To obtain a copy of your Credit record, you can write to Experian Ltd, Consumer Help Service, PO Box 9000, Nottingham, NG80 7WP, go to www.experian.co.uk , or call them on 0844 481 8000. If you wish to obtain further information on how finance companies carry out credit scoring, the Finance and Leasing Association provide a consumer guide – you can find this at www.fla.org.uk.
Over what period of time can I take my finance?
We provide a variety of terms, from 12 to 60 months, dependent upon the finance plan you have chosen.
How much can I borrow?
Subject to satisfying normal credit criteria, and taking into consideration the affordability of the loan, we will lend up to the full amount of the vehicle being purchased, although in certain circumstances we may require you to contribute a deposit.
What information do I need to provide when applying for finance?
In order to validate your identity, you will need to provide a full UK, or EU driving licence, and in addition proof of address and income will be required, acceptable proofs of address are: a bank or credit card statement, utility or council tax bill, mortgage statement (all dated within the past three months). Please call for more details.
What is the Option to Purchase fee?
Hire purchase and personal contract plan (PCP) agreements sometimes include an option to purchase fee, which is payable should you wish to own the vehicle at the end of the agreement.
What happens at the end of my finance agreement?
At the end of the agreement period, assuming all payments have been made (including the Purchase Fee), you own the car.
Can I settle my loan before the end of the agreement?
Yes, you can settle your account at any time once your account has been set up. You can request a settlement quotation on your finance account.
What happens if there is an accident and my vehicle is written off?
We require for your protection and ours that your car is comprehensively insured at all times. In the event of an accident you should submit a claim to your insurer. Please note you must continue to pay normal monthly installments pending determination of your claim. If the car is not insured, we will take possession of the vehicle and sell it at public auction. You will continue to be liable for the difference between the net sales proceeds received from the vehicle and the insurer’s settlement amount.
Can finance through the dealership be organised quickly?
The application process is easy. Choose the car and then submit your information online with the dealer. Decisions take a few minutes and if the car is ready and you have the relevant paperwork, such as your full driving license in your current address, then you can choose, apply and drive away in one visit.
What happens if I experience financial difficulties?
Should your financial position change in a way that will affect your ability to make your monthly repayments, it is important that you contact your finance provider immediately. If they are made aware of your circumstances as soon as possible it is likely that they will be able to help you find a solution to the problem.
What happens if I miss a monthly payment?
Charges will be applied to your account for any missed payments and ultimately your vehicle is at risk of repossession if you continue to miss agreed payments. If you find yourself in a position where you are unable to re-pay your loan, it is important that you contact your finance provider so they can work with you to arrive at a solution.
What if I want to sell the vehicle?
You do not own the vehicle until the end of the contract with your Finance provider, which means you cannot sell the vehicle during your agreement without our prior approval. If you want to sell the vehicle you must first settle the loan in its entirety to become the legal owner..
