Is There Outstanding Finance?
Around a third of used cars sold in the UK still have outstanding finance. If you buy one, the finance company can legally repossess it — even if you paid the seller in full. Check before you buy.
What the finance check reveals
We check against finance industry databases to find any outstanding HP, PCP, lease, or other finance agreements registered against the vehicle.
Outstanding Finance
We check for active HP (hire purchase), PCP (personal contract purchase), lease, and other finance agreements that are registered against the vehicle.
Agreement Details
Where available, we show the finance company name, agreement type, agreement date, and contact details so you can verify the status directly.
Risk Warning
If finance is found, you risk having the vehicle repossessed by the finance company — even if you purchased it in good faith from a private seller.
Stolen & Write-Off Bundle
Our premium check bundles finance with stolen vehicle (PNC), write-off (MIAFTR), safety recalls, valuation, and full AI analysis for complete protection.
Settlement Guidance
If finance is found, we provide guidance on how to contact the finance company, request a settlement figure, and negotiate with the seller.
AI Buy Verdict
Our AI factors outstanding finance into its overall buy/don't buy recommendation, along with mileage integrity, MOT history, and vehicle condition.
Frequently asked questions
Why is a finance check important?
If you buy a car with outstanding finance, the finance company still legally owns it. They can repossess it at any time — and you lose both the car and the money you paid. Around a third of used cars in the UK have some form of finance agreement.
What types of finance does the check cover?
We check for HP (hire purchase), PCP (personal contract purchase), lease agreements, conditional sale agreements, and other forms of asset finance registered against the vehicle.
Can a dealer sell a car with outstanding finance?
Dealers should settle any outstanding finance before selling. However, some private sellers and less reputable dealers sell vehicles without settling the finance first. This is why an independent finance check is essential before any purchase.
What should I do if finance is found?
Do not proceed with the purchase until the finance is settled. Ask the seller to provide proof of settlement from the finance company. You can also contact the finance company directly using the details we provide to verify the current status.
Is the finance check free?
The finance check is part of our premium report (£9.99), which also includes stolen vehicle (PNC), write-off (MIAFTR), safety recalls, valuation, specs, and AI analysis. The free check includes MOT history and AI mileage fraud detection.
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Check for outstanding finance
Enter a registration number to start. Free instant report with option to upgrade for finance data.