Car finance hub

HP car finance advice

The HP (hire purchase) is the original form of car finance in the UK.
The Car Expert has everything you need to know.

HP car finance used to be the most popular way to pay for a new car, although it’s now a lot less popular as most people have shifted to PCPs instead. However, it’s still very popular for used cars – especially for older and/or cheaper cars, or if you’re buying a car with a combination of cash and finance.

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Our top HP car finance advice

Car finance: the Hire Purchase explained

The hire purchase (HP) is a car finance product sold by car dealers that is fairly straightforward to understand and manage. The Car Expert explains how it works.

Car finance: Voluntary termination of a PCP or HP

Voluntary termination is your legal right to cancel your PCP or HP car finance agreement in certain circumstances. The Car Expert explains how it works.

Car finance: Voluntary termination of a PCP or HP

12 September 2022

Voluntary termination is your legal right to cancel your PCP or HP car finance agreement in certain circumstances. The Car Expert explains how it works.

Can you sell your car if it has outstanding finance?

28 January 2022

Trying to sell your car can be quite the hassle, and things certainly get confusing when the car has outstanding finance. Whatever your agreement, we talk you through your options.

What happens to your car finance agreement if you die?

17 October 2021

When taking out car finance, almost no-one thinks: "What would happen to this car finance agreement if I should die before it's paid off?"

Can I get car finance if I’m unemployed?

2 July 2021

Car finance is essential for millions of people to buy a car for getting around. But what if you're unemployed? The Car Expert explains.

Your next car: buying vs leasing

1 May 2021

There are many ways to fund your next new or used car. We look at the options and implications when it comes to buying vs leasing a car.

Can I take out car finance for someone else?

1 March 2021

Can you take out car finance in your name if the car is for someone else? This is called an accommodation deal, and it causes considerable confusion.

Before you apply for car finance…

15 August 2019

Don't get sucked into a car finance agreement you can't afford. Here are a few simple tips you should follow before you sign your life away.

Car finance: the Hire Purchase explained

20 November 2015

The hire purchase (HP) is a car finance product sold by car dealers that is fairly straightforward to understand and manage. The Car Expert explains how it works.

What is a deposit contribution?

4 November 2014

What is the difference between a £2,000 discount and a £2,000 deposit contribution on a new or used car? Well, maybe you should #AskTCE.

Car finance: What you should know

22 August 2012

Many new and used car buyers in the UK are making their purchase with finance of some sort. But how does car finance work and what are the implications?

These guys (and plenty of others) call us for analysis and comment on car finance issues:

Disclaimer

Most car finance and leasing activity in the UK is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, and anyone involved in the selling of car finance or brokering of leasing agreements must be accredited by the FCA.

You should always consider the terms and conditions of any agreement carefully before taking out car finance or leasing agreement, as you are making a substantial ongoing commitment and there may be significant costs if you change your mind or are unable to meet your commitments at a later date.