How to find out who my car finance is with?
If you’ve taken out car finance but can’t remember who it’s with, don’t worry. Many people lose track of finance providers, especially if payments are on autopilot. Here’s a simple guide to help you find out who your car finance provider is.
1. Check Your Bank Statements
Your bank statements contain records of all direct debits and standing orders. Look for payments related to car finance and note the company name. If you find an unfamiliar name, a quick online search can help identify the lender.
2. Search Your Emails
Most finance companies send confirmation emails when you take out a loan. Use keywords like ‘car finance,’ ‘agreement,’ or ‘monthly payment’ to search your inbox. If you’ve deleted emails, check your spam or archive folders.
3. Review Your Credit Report
Your credit report lists all active and past credit agreements. You can check your report for free through Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion. Each report will show the lender’s name, balance, and payment history.
4. Contact Your Car Dealership
If you got finance through a dealership, they should have a record of your agreement. Call the dealership where you purchased the car and ask for finance details. Provide your car registration number for quicker assistance.
5. Use the DVLA Vehicle Enquiry Service
The DVLA doesn’t hold finance details but can confirm if your car has outstanding finance. Visit the DVLA website and enter your vehicle registration. If finance is flagged, you may need to contact previous owners or finance companies directly. With recent discussions around the car finance scandal deadline, it is crucial to ensure your finance agreement was handled correctly and fairly.
6. Check Your Documents
If you keep a copy of your finance agreement, it will list the provider’s name. Look through any contracts, letters, or paperwork from when you bought the car. If you can’t find them, request copies from your lender or dealership.
7. Contact the Finance & Leasing Association (FLA)
The FLA represents major car finance lenders in the UK. If you suspect your lender is a member, contact them for assistance. They may direct you to the right company handling your finance.
8. Call Potential Lenders
If you still can’t find the lender, try calling major car finance providers. Companies like Santander, Black Horse, or MotoNovo handle many UK car finance agreements. Provide your personal details, and they may locate your account.
9. Request a Subject Access Request (SAR)
Under GDPR, you can request a SAR from credit reference agencies or potential lenders. This formal request will provide any data they hold about your agreement. Expect a response within 30 days under UK data protection laws.
10. Consider a Financial Ombudsman Enquiry
If you suspect mis-sold finance or incorrect details, contact the Financial Ombudsman Service. They can investigate disputes and provide guidance on next steps. This service is free and helps protect consumer rights in finance agreements. The mis-sold car finance average payout varies depending on the lender and the severity of the mis-selling, so it’s important to check if you are eligible for compensation.
Final Thoughts
Forgetting your car finance provider is more common than you think. Start by checking bank statements, emails, and credit reports for clues. If needed, contact dealerships, lenders, or regulatory bodies to track down your agreement.
