Buying a used car with outstanding finance? You could lose the car AND the money. Here's how to check before you buy.
The average cost of buying a car with hidden finance: £6,200. That's how much you stand to lose — because if the previous owner still owes money on the car, the finance company can legally repossess it from you.
When someone buys a car on finance (HP, PCP, or a loan secured against the vehicle), the finance company retains legal ownership until the debt is fully paid. If the seller stops paying and you've already bought the car, the finance company comes for it. You lose the car. And the money.
Around 1 in 5 used cars on the market has some form of outstanding finance. Most private sellers won't tell you — some genuinely don't know, others are deliberately hiding it.
Run a full vehicle history check before you hand over any money. Our report checks:
For £8.99 — or 3 checks for £20 — you get everything. Compare that to losing £6,200.
Start with our free check to verify the basics — tax, MOT, annual costs. If everything looks good and you're serious about buying, unlock the full report before you commit.
Tax status, MOT, annual cost, emissions, and more. No sign-up needed.
Check a Vehicle Now