How to Check if Your Car Finance Deal Was Mis-sold

You do not need to be a finance expert to work out whether it is worth looking into your old car finance agreement. Use the checklist below.

1. Find your paperwork

Dig out your original credit agreement, welcome pack or the finance company's statements. If you cannot find them, the lender is required to provide copies on request.

2. Check the dates

The scheme covers agreements taken out between 6 April 2007 and 1 November 2024. If you signed within that window, you meet the date test.

3. Look at the finance type

PCP, HP and conditional sale are all in scope. Personal leases outside consumer credit rules and cash purchases are not.

4. Consider how the deal was presented

• Were you told exactly how the dealer was being paid?
• Were you shown alternative interest rates?
• Did you feel rushed or pressured into signing?
• Were all fees and charges clearly explained in advance?

5. Decide how you want to complain

You can raise a complaint directly with your lender for free, or through the Financial Ombudsman Service. Some readers prefer to instruct a regulated claims firm to handle the paperwork on their behalf — this is optional and typically involves a fee.