🚗 CAR FINANCE DEALS — DON’T GET CAUGHT OUT!
🧠 INTRO: KNOW WHAT YOU’RE SIGNING UP FOR
Car finance can be tempting — get your car without a huge upfront cost. But hidden fees, tricky terms, and unexpected charges can turn your dream car into a financial headache. Stay alert and protect your money.
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) warns:
“Some car finance deals hide the true cost. You may only see the full impact after years of payments.”
Consumer Action Group highlights:
– Hidden fees in the fine print.
– Total payments often much higher than advertised.
– People paying more than the car is worth.
❗ GOT A CLAIM? HOW TO SPOT IT
If the dealer or lender didn’t fully disclose costs, fees, or APR, or pressured you to sign quickly, you may have grounds for action. Look for these warning signs:
- Interest rates higher than initially promised.
- Harsh penalties or fees for early repayment.
- Unclear or missing information about total costs.
- High-pressure tactics leaving no time to review.
- Car value or loan amounts that don’t add up.
- Unexpected charges you didn’t agree to.
- Monthly payments that feel too steep for the car.
🔥 TAKE ACTION: HOW TO CLAIM
If any of the above applies, it’s time to act and reclaim your money. Follow these steps:
STEP 1: Find Complaints Info
Go to your lender’s website and locate the
“Complaints” section. This is your starting point to file a formal complaint via email or letter.
STEP 2: Write Clearly and Firmly
Explain exactly how you were misled, which fees were unexpected, and where transparency failed. Be assertive but factual.
Lenders have
8 weeks to respond. No reply or weak excuses? Escalate to the
Financial Ombudsman Service:
www.financial-ombudsman.org.uk
STEP 3: Access Your Data
If you don’t have all the info, submit a
DSAR (Data Subject Access Request). They must provide your data within one month. Include your full name, date of birth, and past addresses to get the complete picture.
