How car Finance works
1 Get a quote
Submit our quick, hassle-free online application. With our trusted network of lenders, we strive to provide you a car finance option tailored to your needs.
2 Get approved in principle
Let us handle the hard work. Your dedicated account manager will reach out to explain your financing options and aim to secure the deal on your behalf.
3 Choose a car
Financing secured? Now the fun begins! Choose your dream car with confidence, knowing that we’ve got the financing covered. Whether you’ve found your car or need assistance, we’ll help you find the perfect vehicle from any trusted dealer.
4 We do all the checks
Car chosen? Relax—we’ve got it from here. We’ll take care of all the paperwork, liaise with the lender, and keep the dealer updated. You can focus on the exciting part—planning your first adventure.
5 Finalise your agreement
With everything in place, it’s time to finalise your agreement. We’ll handle the last details, so you can focus on the road ahead.
Ready, set, drive!
Enjoy the freedom on four wheels and cruise off in style.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is car finance, and how does it work?
Car finance allows you to spread the cost of a car over an agreed period with affordable monthly payments. This makes cars more accessible without the need for a large upfront payment. At the end of the term, you’ll have the option to own the car outright with a balloon payment or final payment.
Can I still get a car on finance with bad credit?
We partner with lenders who specialise in helping individuals with less-than-perfect credit. Whether you have CCJs or IVAs, we have options available and will aim to find you an affordable deal. Keep in mind, your credit score will impact the rates and terms you're offered.
Do I need a deposit to get car finance?
Getting car finance without a deposit is possible. The majority of our lenders offer zero or no deposit finance options. Although some lenders will require a small deposit towards your vehicle this will be based on various factors like loan amount and type of vehicle.
Will my soft credit search effect my credit rating?
When you apply with Smooth Car Finance, there won’t be a hard search recorded on your credit file. Our lenders use soft search technology to pre-approve applications, known as quotation searches, which only appear in secondary searches on your credit file and are visible only to you. A hard search is only conducted if you proceed with the offered finance agreement, which will show that you have an active credit agreement.
How much can I borrow to buy a car?
It all depends on your income, affordability, and credit score. We assess all applicants and strive to assist everyone, whether you have good credit, bad credit, have been declined by other lenders, are self-employed, or even retired.