Question 1

Why have I been declined PCP car finance?

Accepted Answer

Have you recently applied for PCP car finance only to be met with a disappointing rejection? It can be frustrating and confusing to understand why your application didn't go through. In this guide, we'll explore the reasons behind PCP rejections, what criteria are considered for PCP finance, and whether you can still secure a new car deal with a less-than-perfect credit history. Plus we’ll give you tips on how to tackle things if you do find yourself getting declined for PCP finance.

Question 2

Can you be rejected for PCP?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it's entirely possible to be declined for PCP car finance. While PCP (Personal Contract Purchase) agreements are often considered more accessible than HP (Hire Purchase) or other types of traditional car loans, they still involve a credit check and a thorough assessment of your personal finances, just like any other type of finance application. If your financial situation doesn't meet the lender's criteria, you may find you get your application for PCP declined.

Question 3

Why would I get rejected for PCP car finance?

Accepted Answer

Several factors can contribute to a PCP application being declined, but one of the most common reasons is having a poor credit history. Lenders take a close look at your credit score and all the history on your credit file to determine the level of risk associated with lending to you. If you have a history of missed payments, defaults, CCJs, IVAs or bankruptcy, it can signal to lenders that you might struggle to meet the monthly payments required for a PCP agreement. If this happens, it’s most likely to result in your application for PCP finance being declined.

Question 4

What is the criteria for PCP finance?

Accepted Answer

So now we know what can cause PCP applications to be rejected, what actually do lenders want to see for a successful application? Lenders typically consider several factors when assessing PCP applications:

1. Credit score: A higher credit score indicates a lower risk for the lender, making approval more likely. Typically anything below a score of 600 could be seen as a poor or low score, while anything over 800 is considered a good score.

2. Your affordability: This is how likely lenders think you are to be able to afford the loan payments. Lenders look closely at your income compared with your existing financial commitments to ensure you can comfortably afford the monthly payments.

3. Employment status: Stability in employment can positively influence your application, as it demonstrates a reliable source of income. Lenders are looking for at least three months in your current role as an ideal ‘stable’ situation, but the longer the better. They may also ask to see three months of recent payslips or bank statements showing your income being paid in.

4. Residency: Being a resident in the country where you're applying for finance is often a requirement for lenders with PCP finance applications. Many UK lenders won’t lend to you if you live outside of the UK, or if you haven’t lived in the UK for at least three months before you apply.

5. Your age and driving licence type: You must typically be of legal age to take out credit (this is 18 years or older in the UK), and you often need to hold a valid full or provisional driver's licence to qualify.

Question 5

I was declined credit for a PCP deal, can you help?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we may be able to help if you’ve had a PCP deal declined. Facing rejection for PCP finance doesn't mean you're out of options, as some lenders specialise in providing bad credit car finance agreements to individuals with less-than-perfect credit histories. Here at CarFinance247 we work with a panel of these specialist lenders, so applying with us may mean you can get that PCP deal or another alternative. We also work with lenders who specialise in offering car finance deals for people who have been refused car finance in the past, so we have plenty of opportunities for you to explore which could help you get the positive result you’re looking for. Seeking advice from financial experts can also help you understand your options and improve your chances of securing a car finance deal.

Question 6

Can I get a new car on PCP with a bad credit history?

Accepted Answer

While having a bad credit history can make it more challenging to secure PCP finance, it's not impossible. Some lenders offer specialised deals for individuals with poor credit. However, you may face higher interest rates or stricter terms. You could also consider building your credit score back up to a more favourable level by making timely payments and reducing outstanding debts to improve your chances of approval in the future.

Question 7

What happens if you get declined for PCP car finance?

Accepted Answer

If your application for PCP car finance is declined, it can be disappointing, but it's not the end of the road. Firstly, you'll receive communication from the lender explaining the reason for the rejection. This could range from a poor credit score to affordability concerns.

However, being declined doesn't mean you can't get a car. You could explore other financing options, such as a personal loan or a guarantor loan, or you could work on improving your credit score before reapplying. Some dealerships offer alternative finance solutions or may be able to help you find a suitable vehicle within your budget.

Question 8

Is PCP Better over 3 or 4 Years?

Accepted Answer

Whether a PCP agreement is better over three or four years depends on your individual circumstances and preferences. Opting for a shorter contract period, such as 3 years, typically means higher monthly payments but less overall interest paid. On the other hand, spreading the cost over 4 years can result in lower monthly payments but may accrue more interest in the long run.

Consider factors such as your budget, the depreciation rate of the vehicle, and how long you plan to keep the car when deciding between a 3-year or 4-year PCP agreement.

Question 9

Why do I keep getting rejected for PCP car finance?

Accepted Answer

Consistently getting rejected for PCP car finance can be frustrating, but it's essential to understand why it's happening. Common reasons for repeated rejections include:

Poor credit history: If you have a history of missed payments or defaults, lenders may view you as a higher risk. The more recent these are, the more likely you are to be rejected for credit.

Affordability concerns: If your income doesn't meet the lender's criteria for the monthly payments, you may be declined. For example, they may decide your income is too low for the amount you are trying to borrow on the finance agreement.

Unstable employment: Lenders prefer applicants with stable employment, as it indicates a reliable source of income. People with temporary employment or no employment are more likely to be rejected.

To improve your chances of approval, focus on addressing these issues, such as improving your credit score or increasing your income stability. You could also try looking for lenders who specialise in lending to people with poor credit or a history of having finance refused.

Question 10

Is PCP finance a waste of money?

Accepted Answer

No type of car finance is inherently a waste of money, as it all depends on your own individual circumstances. PCP finance can offer many benefits such as lower monthly payments compared to traditional car loans, flexibility at the end of the contract term, and the potential to drive a newer car more frequently.

However, it's essential to consider factors such as depreciation, mileage limits, and additional costs such as maintenance and excess wear and tear charges. For some individuals, PCP may not be the most cost-effective option, while for others, it provides the flexibility and convenience they desire.