Car Finance Myths Debunked

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Navigating the world of car finance can be tricky, especially with the abundance of misinformation out there. This article aims to debunk some of the most common car finance myths, helping you make informed decisions about financing your next vehicle.

Myth 1: You Need Perfect Credit to Get Car Finance

While having a good credit score can help secure better terms, it’s not a necessity for obtaining car finance. Many lenders offer bad credit car finance options tailored for those with less-than-perfect credit.

  • Fact: There are specialised lenders who cater to individuals with bad credit, offering flexible terms and reasonable interest rates.
  • Tip: Check your credit score and shop around for the best deals.

Myth 2: Car Finance is Only for New Cars

Contrary to popular belief, car finance isn’t limited to new vehicles. You can finance used cars, motorbikes, and even classic cars.

  • Fact: Many finance options are available for used cars, motorbikes, and other types of vehicles.
  • Tip: Explore different financing options to find the one that best suits your needs.

Myth 3: Leasing and PCP are the Same as Buying

Leasing and Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) are often confused with buying, but they have distinct differences.

  • Fact: Leasing and PCP involve lower monthly payments and the option to return the car at the end of the term. Buying through Hire Purchase (HP) or a personal loan results in ownership.
  • Tip: Compare PCP and HP options to decide which financing method is right for you.

Myth 4: You Can’t Refinance a Car Loan

Refinancing isn’t just for mortgages; it’s also possible for car loans. Refinancing can lower your monthly payments or reduce the interest rate.

  • Fact: You can refinance your existing car loan with the same lender or a different one. Learn more about car loan refinancing.
  • Tip: Check if you qualify for refinancing and compare offers from various lenders.

Myth 5: You Must Make a Large Down Payment

While a larger down payment can reduce your monthly payments, it’s not always required. There are no-deposit finance options available.

  • Fact: Some lenders offer no-deposit car finance deals, though they might come with higher interest rates.
  • Tip: Evaluate your financial situation to decide the best down payment amount for you.

Myth 6: Car Finance is Too Complicated

Many people believe car finance is overly complicated, but with the right guidance, it can be straightforward.

  • Fact: Understanding the basics of car finance, such as HP, PCP, and leasing, can simplify the process. Use resources like car finance guides to educate yourself.
  • Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek advice from finance experts.

Comparison Table: Car Finance Options

OptionDescriptionOwnershipMonthly Payments
Hire Purchase (HP)Pay a deposit and fixed monthly payments. Own the car at the end of the term.YesHigher
Personal Contract Purchase (PCP)Lower monthly payments with an option to buy, return, or trade in the car at the end.OptionalLower
LeasingPay monthly to use the car, then return it at the end of the lease term.NoLower
Personal LoanTake out a loan to buy the car outright.YesVaries

Myth 7: You Can’t Get Car Finance if You’ve Been Refused Before

Being refused car finance once doesn’t mean you can’t try again. Different lenders have varying criteria.

  • Fact: Some lenders specialise in helping those who have been refused finance previously. Visit our guide on getting finance after being refused for more information.
  • Tip: Improve your credit score and try again with different lenders.

Myth 8: All Car Finance Deals are the Same

Not all car finance deals are created equal. Interest rates, terms, and conditions can vary significantly.

  • Fact: Shopping around and comparing different offers can help you find the best deal. Use tools like our finance calculator to estimate your payments.
  • Tip: Read the fine print and understand all terms before signing a finance agreement.

Conclusion

Debunking these common car finance myths can help you make better-informed decisions when financing your next vehicle. Whether you have good or bad credit, are looking to buy a new or used car, or need specific advice, there are resources and options available to suit your needs.

For more information and personalised advice, explore the resources available at Happy Motor Finance.

Check Your Eligibility in 60 Seconds

Chelcie Rowe
Chelcie Rowe
Excellent customer service. Friend, helpful and patient. Knowledgeable and reassuring. This company helped when nobody else could in regards to finance, and Leon was exemplary.
Celin Roisin
Celin Roisin
Kirsty has been an absolute star the entire way - even when we had to change car last minute, she had it sorted and kept me feeling confident and secure throughout the entire process! I would recommend her to anyone and whoever gets her as an advisor is so lucky!!!!
Andrew Dean
Andrew Dean
Really smooth process, the guys were great from start to finish and couldn't be happier with my new car. Legends!
Dyan Walker
Dyan Walker
Excellent service. Ali was professional, attentive and extremely thorough. He explained everything clearly and was able to close the deal for me quickly. Initial contact was made on Saturday and by Monday everything was completed. 5* service.
Martin Ball
Martin Ball
Hello well had never brought a car this way before but was helped though the whole thing by great staff found a great car and within 24hours had a new car 5⭐ customer service
Toni Seraphin
Toni Seraphin
Was not expecting to be looking for another car so soon... and this was at no faulty of Happy motors... They handled the issue with my first car rapidly. Damian, Leon on the day of the bad event went above and beyond to rectify the issue and dealt with the dealership. This meant that Kirsty had to put up with me once again to find another car... and bless her understanding and patience again for dealing with me haha! I eventually found my car, and again Kirsty and happy motors were superb, quick and efficient fro. Auto trader add to the car being at my door... superb. I recommend this team to anyone and will spread their name far and wide.. and sorry to say Kirsty... I will definitely be back again without doubt or hesitation.
John Henry Oluebube Maduka
John Henry Oluebube Maduka
I recently had the pleasure of working with Kirsty at Happy Motor Finance to secure financing for my new car, and I am beyond impressed with the service I received. From the moment we connected, Kirsty was incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and attentive to my needs. They took the time to explain all the financing options available to me, ensuring that I could make an informed decision.What stood out the most was their commitment to finding the best possible Car, rates and terms that fit my financial situation. Kristy navigated through the paperwork with ease, making the entire process smooth and stress-free. A couple of times I was feed up and wanted to give up but Kirsty reassured me that this will workout in the end. Thanks to Kirsty's expertise and dedication, I am able to drive away in my dream car with a financing plan that works for me. I highly recommend Kirsty from Happy Motor Finance to anyone looking for a reliable and supportive finance company and representative. Thank you, Kirsty, for your outstanding service! I appreciate You😊
Kane Miller
Kane Miller
Thank you so much for the help and it was fast, easy and straightforward thank you Ali for the help if I could give you a 10 star I would 🌟⭐️
Hashem Ahmed
Hashem Ahmed
As a seller, the whole process was absolutely professional and swift. Would highly recommend and definitely work with again!
Alex Timmins-Jones
Alex Timmins-Jones
Very helpful and a personal touch. 99% of companies just click a button and leave you alone if rejected. Happy actually worked hard to understand my circumstances and make efforts to match. All completed in a couple of days start to finish. They obviously have a unique selection of finance companies on hand to support. Very happy with happy
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Company Name & Contact Details
Happy Motor Finance
Pennington House
16 Carolina Way
Salford Quays
Salford
M50 2ZY
0161 524 0582
Happy Motor Finance Limited is registered in England and Wales under company number: 14387669. Registered office address: Pennington House, 16 Carolina Way, Salford Quays, Salford, M50 2ZY

Happy Motor Finance Limited (FRN - 989250) is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. We act as a credit broker not a lender. We work with a number of carefully selected credit providers who may be able to offer you finance for your purchase. (Written Quotation available upon request). Whichever lender we introduce you to, we will typically receive commission from them (either a fixed fee or a fixed percentage of the amount you borrow) this will not affect the rate you are offered or the amount you will pay back. The lenders we work with could pay commission at different rates. All finance is subject to status and income. Terms and conditions apply. Applicants must be 18 years or over. We are only able to offer finance products from these providers.

Happy Motor Finance Limited are registered with the Information Commissioners Office under registration number: ZB408604

VAT Number: 456 0212 21
Specialist Automotive Finance Approved
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