Why check for outstanding finance?
Around a third of used cars in the UK are sold with outstanding finance. If you buy a car that has money owed on it, the finance company is the legal owner — not the seller, and not you. The finance company can repossess the vehicle at any time to recover their debt, leaving you with nothing. A finance check is essential before purchasing any used vehicle, especially from a private seller.
What does the finance check show?
Our Pro Report checks for any active finance agreements registered against the vehicle, including Hire Purchase (HP), Personal Contract Purchase (PCP), lease agreements, and other secured lending. If finance is found, the report shows the finance company name, agreement type, agreement date, and term. This allows you to verify with the seller and ensure the finance is settled before completing the purchase.
What happens if you buy a car on finance?
If the original owner stops making payments, the finance company can legally reclaim the vehicle from whoever has it — including you. You would then need to pursue the seller for compensation, which can be extremely difficult if they have disappeared. Courts consistently rule in favour of finance companies in these disputes, as the law treats the finance agreement as taking priority over the sale.
Check for outstanding finance now
Enter the registration number above for a free basic check. To see the full finance status along with stolen checks, write-off history, and more, upgrade to our Pro Report. At £9.99, it costs a fraction of the thousands you could lose by buying a car with hidden finance.
Run a finance check on any vehicle
Enter any UK registration number above to get started instantly.
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