How to avoid buying a car with outstanding finance
If you buy a car that still has outstanding finance, the lender can legally repossess it — even if you’ve paid for it in good faith.
How does outstanding finance affect you?
When a car is bought on finance, the finance company technically owns it until the debt is paid. If a seller hasn’t settled the agreement before selling, the finance company retains the right to reclaim the vehicle from whoever holds it — including you.
What should I do?
Always run a vehicle history check before buying. Our finance check will tell you if there’s any outstanding finance recorded against the vehicle.
Around 1 in 5 used cars in the UK has outstanding finance against it.
