What do you mean by Car loans?
A car loan is a financial facility that allows you to borrow a lump sum to purchase a car. In this, you may receive up to £25,000 to meet your needs. You own the car from the beginning of the loan term. Hence, you can use it according to your requirements and pay the dues in instalments. The instalments stay fixed over the loan term. It does help you split the costs of the purchase into equal and affordable payments. It is not mandatory to provide a deposit on a car loan. You may, if you wish, get better terms. You own the car legally once you have fully paid off the loan.
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Affordable car options in the UK
You may come across some affordable car options, such as car finance, PCP, car loans, and Hire Purchase, to consider for purchase.
Comparison Table: Car Finance Options
| Parameters | Car loans | Car finance | Hire Purchase | PCP (Personal Contract Purchase) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ownership | You own the car after repaying the loan. | Depends on the type of finance. You may exchange the car or buy it outright by paying the balloon payment. | You own the car right after the payment | You can only get one after paying the balloon payment |
| Structure | You borrow a lump sum and repay it in easy monthly instalments | You deal with a car finance dealer to get a suitable arrangement after paying 10% of the car’s purchase fee as a deposit | You retain the ownership of the vehicle until you repay the dues. At the end of the agreement, you can purchase the vehicle after paying a fee | It works similarly to HP, but in the end, you share 3 options: Buy the car by paying a balloon payment Return the car Use the existing equity in the car to buy a new car finance agreement |
| Best for | People who want to own the vehicle outright | New drivers seeking flexible finance | Wish to own the car with predictable payments | Want a lower monthly payment and flexibility in the contract |
How much interest do car loan providers charge?
The interest rates on car loans in 2025 range from 3.5% to 12.5%. Individuals with excellent credit scores may qualify for a loan at an interest rate of 3.5% to 5.5%. The interest rate you get depends on your credit score, income, and financial management.
Car Loans for Borrowers with Credit Challenges
A bad credit score may affect your loan approval chances. However, aspects such as a consistent income and a clean debt history may increase your chances of getting a loan. Here are some other factors to know:
How can I get a car loan with bad credit?
- Pay some basic debts before applying
- Choose a used car finance solution
- Borrow a smaller and affordable loan amount
- Provide a loan deposit ( to get cheaper terms)
See more about car loans for bad credit.
Are guaranteed car loans available in the UK?
No, no responsible car loan provider provides “guaranteed approval” on car loans. Every loan application is subjected to basic credit and financial checks. It helps determine the borrower’s potential to repay the dues comfortably. If you have a consistent income, stable finances, and can afford the payments, you may get guaranteed approval on car loans in the UK marketplace. Learn more about guaranteed car loans.
Can you get a guarantor-based car loan?
Yes, you may be eligible for a guarantor-based car loan, even if you have a poor credit rating. It is for individuals who can present someone reliable as a “Guarantor” on the loan payments. A guarantor should have a higher income and a better credit score to operate effectively. Having a guarantor on the loan helps one fetch low interest rates. Find out more about guarantor-based car loans.
How to qualify for a car loan without a guarantor?
Individuals with a regular income, a fair credit score, a lengthy employment history, and balanced finances may qualify for a car loan without a guarantor. In this, you would be solely responsible for the payments. See more about car loans without guarantor.
Where can I get non-homeowner guarantor loans?
You may get non-homeowner guarantor loans with 24fundsflow. In this, your roommate, or anyone with a good credit history and a regular income higher than yours, may be a guarantor. He does not necessarily need to be a homeowner. The amount you get depends on both the person’s affordability.
Specialised Car Loan Options
There are unique types of car loan options available for you according to your financial circumstances and your cash needs. Here are some queries related to the same:
How do guarantor-based car loans work in the UK?
- You apply for a loan with a guarantor
- The loan provider analyses your finances and affordable proof
- He decides an amount according to the combined affordability
- The loan company transfers the funds to the guarantor’s bank account
- The prime borrower can use the funds and repay in instalments
- If the borrower cannot pay, the guarantor must make the payment
Repaying the dues timely boosts the credit score and finances of the guarantor and the borrower.
Where can I find unsecured car loans in the UK?
You may get unsecured car loans with 24fundsflow online. You just need to meet the basic eligibility criteria and affordability aspects. Legal citizens of the country with a relevant bank account, driving license, and income may qualify. See more about unsecured car loans.
Are high acceptance payday loans available for car purchase?
Yes, you may get high acceptance payday loans. However, the amount stays low here (up to £1500). It means you can use the money only for small needs, like bridging the car purchase amount or for small repairs. Check small personal loans for support.
Are tenant car loans available for renters?
Yes, tenants can also apply for car loans in the UK. Individual tenants (self-employed, postgraduate) with basic income, a driving license, and a UK identity may qualify for the car loans. Additionally, you must have been living at the same address for at least 3 years. Explore tenant car loan options.
How do car loans for people with benefits work in the UK?
- Step 1- Analyse loan providers dealing with particular people
- Step 2- Identify the long-term government benefits you receive
- Step 3-Check the type of benefits accepted for the loan
- Step 4- Get a guarantor (if the loan provider asks you to)
- Step 5- Undergo affordability checks
- Step 6- provide basic documents (income proof, proof of address, benefit slip)
Find details on car loans for people on benefits.
Car Loan Eligibility and Application Help
Knowing the eligibility criteria and application basics helps you get a quick loan. Here is what to know:
Can I get a car financing with low income?
Yes, you may get car finance with a limited income. However, you must demonstrate your financial stability. Individuals with fixed income and long employment history may qualify. You can also seek the possibilities of providing a higher deposit or getting a guarantor. Both of these options may help you get car finance with a low income.
What is the basic process of applying for a car loan in the UK?
- Step 1- Make a simple application by mentioning details
- Step 2- Provide the required documents for verification
- Step 3- Get a basic loan agreement after the verification
- Step 4- Analyse the terms and provide consent
Afterwards, you get the loan amount the same day.
What factors may affect car loan approval?
Aspects like bad credit history, no credit score, limited income, and no driving license may affect the car loan approval.
Bottom line
These are some of the common queries that may clear your confusion. For further aspects, you can contact the firm. It may help you know the suitable deals for you. Check the affordability, eligibility, and loan requirements before applying.

When someone writes about UK finance, both research and experience should be visible. Ken Stokes is a prime example of this. He is a well-experienced finance writer and author and possesses years of experience. He is currently responsible for the position of Senior Loan Executive at 24loanswales. He joined the organisation 6 months ago, but he already has enough experience to guide someone on any loan product.Ken Stokes is a PhD holder in the Business Finance stream. Therefore, he has extensive knowledge of the UK finance sector.
Being part of 24loanswales, he has already written research-based blogs for the company’s website. Start reading his blogs here before applying for any loan.