USED CAR FINANCE To suit your budget

Compare finance options for your next used car from our trusted UK lenders and see what your monthly repayments could look like.

Quick decision
Buy from any reputable dealer
No broker fees
Kia Rio
Quick decision
Buy from any reputable dealer
No broker fees

Car Loans UK is a credit broker, not a lender. Rates from 10.9% APR. Representative 21.6% APR (fixed).

Representative Example (Hire Purchase): Borrow £6,000 with £0 deposit over 60 months with a representative 21.6% APR (fixed). 60 monthly payments of £157.92. Final Option to Purchase Fee: £10. Total cost of credit: £3,485.20. Total amount payable: £9,485.20. Car Loans UK is a credit broker, not a lender. This is an example only; all finance is subject to status. Lender fees may apply.

Used Car Finance

Used Car Finance Made Simple

Buying a used car doesn’t have to be confusing. Whether you’re upgrading or buying your first vehicle, used car finance can make it affordable. Car Loans UK specialises in matching drivers to finance, even with imperfect credit. We explain how to finance a used car, where to shop and what checks to make. We keep things simple so you can drive away happy.

QUICK AND SIMPLE FINANCE TOOL

USE OUR FINANCE
CALCULATOR

Discover how much you could borrow
before you apply

Car Loans UK is a credit broker, not a lender. Rates from 10.9% APR. Representative 21.6% APR (fixed).

Representative Example (Hire Purchase): Borrow £6,000 with £0 deposit over 60 months with a representative 21.6% APR (fixed). 60 monthly payments of £157.92. Final Option to Purchase Fee: £10. Total cost of credit: £3,485.20. Total amount payable: £9,485.20. Car Loans UK is a credit broker, not a lender. This is an example only; all finance is subject to status. Lender fees may apply.

Used Car Finance

Where to get used cars

Choosing where to buy matters. Private sellers usually offer lower prices and more room to negotiate because there is no dealer markup. You must arrange your own finance (usually this will be a finance agreement not connected to the asset) and paperwork and there is no warranty. Dealers provide a safer one‑stop shop; you can view several cars, test drive, arrange finance and get a warranty in one place . The downside is a higher price because dealers add extra costs.

Bad Credit

How to finance a used car with bad credit

Bad credit does not necessarily stop you getting finance. Start by checking your credit file and fixing any errors. Set a realistic budget including any deposit, monthly payments and running costs. Saving a deposit improves your chances but many lenders offer low‑deposit deals. Make sure you’re registered to vote to boost your score. Someone who co‑signs your loan can help . We connect you to lenders.

Used Car Finance

How to buy a used car

To buy a used car, research models and prices to know what a fair deal looks like. Inspect the car, check its paperwork and get finance approval before negotiating. Agree a price in writing and complete the V5C transfer with the seller. Finally, organise tax and insurance before driving home. It’s that simple when you’re prepared. Younger driver? Check our finance guide for 18 year olds here.

Used Car Finance

What to know before buying a used car

What is good mileage for a used car?

Mileage is only one factor. A 50,000‑mile car with regular servicing can be just as reliable as a 20,000‑mile car that’s been neglected. Long motorway journeys put less stress on components than stop‑start driving. Around 9,000 miles per year is considered average . Modern cars and even electric vehicles can last well beyond 100,000 miles . Always focus on service history and condition over odometer readings.

What to check when buying a used car

Inspect any used car carefully. Look for dents, rust or mismatched panels. Check tyres for tread depth and even wear. Under the bonnet, ensure fluid levels are correct and look for leaks. Review documents such as the V5C logbook and MOT history to confirm its identity and maintenance. Take a test drive to check steering, brakes and suspension. A vehicle history check will reveal any outstanding finance or accident damage.

Used Car Finance

why used car finance could save you money

Buying used costs less than buying new. New cars lose about 35% of their value in the first year so purchasing used cars lets you avoid the biggest drop in value. Because most of the drop in value has already happened, the remaining decline is slower. Older vehicles often have lower insurance and road tax and running costs such as registration and parts can be cheaper. These savings mean you can afford a better‑equipped car for the same budget.

Compare

Compare car finance options

PCP and HP are popular ways to finance used cars. PCP spreads the cost over a few years often with a deposit and low monthly payments because you pay only for the drop in the value of the car over the period of the contract. At the end of the term you can pay a balloon payment, hand back the car or trade it in. This is a popular option for those who want to drive newer cars. HP involves higher monthly payments because you repay the full value, but you own the car completely once the final payment is made. Comparing rates and terms will help you pick the best option.

Car Loans UK

Why choose Car Loans UK?

Car Loans UK makes used car finance straightforward. Apply online in under a minute. We work with many lenders and offer deposit and no‑deposit options. Everything is explained clearly and we handle the paperwork so you can focus on selecting your car.

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FINANCE?

Apply online today and explore flexible finance options.

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Used Car Finance

Used Cars and the Difference Between HP and PCP

When it comes to financing a used car, it’s important to compare the different options to determine which one best suits your needs. Below, we have compared the major components of PCP (Personal Contract Purchase) and Hire Purchase (HP) financing methods to help you make an informed decision.

Aspect
Personal Contract Purchase
Hire Purchase
Ownership
At the end of the PCP agreement, you have the option to make a balloon payment to own the car outright. Alternatively, you can return the car or trade it in for a new PCP deal.
With HP, you make fixed monthly payments over an agreed period, automatically taking over ownership of the car after making the final payment.
Monthly Payments
PCP payments are typically lower than HP payments because you are only covering the car’s depreciation during the contract term.
HP payments are typically higher because you are paying off the entire value of the car.
Flexibility
PCP offers more flexibility with options to keep, return, or trade in the car at the end of the term.
HP is less flexible, as the primary goal is to own the car outright after the final payment.
Mileage and Condition
PCP agreements usually have mileage limits and condition requirements. Exceeding these limits can result in additional charges.
HP agreements do not typically have mileage restrictions since the car will be yours once all payments are completed.

CAR LOANS UK: HOW DOES IT WORK?

A step by step guide:

Our aim at Car Loans UK is to find you the perfect vehicle and finance plan. Our experienced consultants do the hard work,
saving you the time and effort. We will actively source you the ideal used car and finance package from our panel of lenders.

STEP 01 ⸺

FILL IN
DETAILS

Fill in your details using the form above or click here to begin the process.

STEP 02 ⸺

WE FIND YOUR
PERFECT CAR

 We find you the perfect used car. Whether you have a specific make or model in mind, or just want a 5-door family car with air conditioning, our team will find the right car for your needs.

Step by step 3. New

STEP 03 ⸺

SOURCE
FINANCE

We work with a panel of UK lenders to try and find you a finance agreement and payment plan that suits your budget. We carry out the relevant checks and keep you informed every step of the way.

So, let Car Loans UK take the strain of searching for a new car and finance plan away, and begin your journey today.

FAQs

If you have any further questions about used car finance, our friendly team is here to help. Speak to an expert today for free support and guidance.

CONTACT US
Yes – you could. Start by checking your credit file, then set a realistic budget. We work with lenders who specialise in bad-credit car finance, so you have possible options.
No fixed score exists. Lenders look at what you earn and how much you can afford; working with a broker could help you find the right option
You can choose franchised dealerships, independent dealers, car supermarkets, private sellers or auctions. Each has pros and cons. We can help you decide which is right for you.
Inspect the body, tyres and engine. Check the V5C, MOT and service history. Take it for a test drive.
Average cars clock about 9,000 miles per year. Look for consistent servicing and careful driving rather than just low miles.
Understand how hire purchase, PCP and personal loans work. We compare lenders and explain the differences, so you can pick the best plan for you.