Solutions for Drivers , frequently asked questions

Why use Business Car Finance instead of a dealer or internet car provider?

We specialise in cars used for business purposes. The finance companies and manufacturers know this is our market and allow us access to some of the best deals and rates available. We are very experienced in this sector and can offer you truly independent advice.

I only use my car for a few business miles a year. Can I still use your services?

Yes, as long as your car is used for your work (including commuting) you can benefit from Business Car Finance's expertise, facilities and purchasing power.

How do I know I am getting a good deal?

No matter how competitive we can be, somewhere you will probably find a cheaper deal. But, can a really cheap provider offer you the level of advice and service you need? Will they help you complete your tax reclaims? Do they care if your circumstances change? Are their cars coming from recognised UK sources and backed by major lenders? Probably not!

My cash allowance is £300 per month and I currently have a 1.8 Ford Mondeo company car. Should I opt out of the company car?

Anyone who tells you the answer to this question in less than 5 minutes or recommends a web calculator should be avoided at all costs. We can only help you with this question by understanding both your financial and non financial circumstances. We need to know all about how your cash allowance package is calculated (especially around how fuel and mileage costs are reimbursed). We need to look at the vehicles you are interested in and examine their total after tax whole life costs. What is your expected split between business and private mileage? This has a big bearing on the answer. We need to look at contract terms and decide what funding facility best suits your needs. Does a web site know what tax changes are due next year and the year after? Only when you are truly happy with the answer to these and several more important questions can you make your informed decision.

What is the difference between a PCP and PCH agreement?

Simply it’s all about ownership. With a PCP (Personal Contract Purchase) transaction there is an option for you to own the car at the end of the agreement, unlike PCH (Personnel Contract Hire) where the car is automatically returned to the leasing company.

What length of contract should I go for?

Longer contracts will always appear cheaper because the car's depreciation is spread over a greater period. But, the longer you keep a car the more it will cost to maintain. Finally, with new green fuel and tax efficient cars constantly entering the market, a four year contract can work out a lot more expensive than it appears on paper today.

What happens if I leave my current employer?

No problem. You take the car with you.

Apart from fuel what other costs will I be expected to pay?

The car will need to be insured (most insurers will accept your business no claims record) and unless you have taken a maintenance package (which we recommend) you will need to make sure it is maintained in line with the manufacturer's recommendations.

So honestly which is better, a cash alternative or a company car?

I have no idea! However, we can work through the options and find out what's best for you.

How much does your advice cost me?

Nothing.

Do I have to fill in loads of forms and questionnaires?

No our process is simple.

• We agree what vehicle, term and method of finance best suits your needs and send you a full quotation
• If you are happy with the quotation we send out a proposal form by email for you to complete and return to us
• We agree the exact vehicle specification and agreement terms with you and give an indication of the delivery date
• We post you a finance agreement which you sign and return
• Just before the car is delivered we ask you for the initial rental and insurance details
• We tax and deliver the car to your home
• You enjoy all the benefits of owning the car without the worry of depreciation and, if you take a maintained contract, no unexpected repair bills. All our lease cars come with full manufacturer warranty and usually Road Tax for the full term of the lease.

How do I know I am dealing with proper companies?

We will only deal with mainstream finance /leasing companies. We do not introduce any of our clients to sub prime companies.

What cars can you provide?

Any new UK models and certain nearly new cars.

Can I have more than one car?

Yes. Getting rid of an expensive highly taxed company car will often allow you to run two private cars for the same budget.

What happens if my circumstances change?

Just like anything in life circumstances change. Business Car Finance doesn't want to only know you when you're spending money. Any time during the life of the agreement we will try our best to help you resolve your issues.

What happens if the car gets damaged?

Accidents happen and usually they are covered by your insurance company. Any damage not covered will be your responsibility in the same way as if you owned the car. Generally if your car is returned to us in a fair and reasonable condition you will have no extra amounts to pay. Full details of terms and conditions are available on request.

How do I know that Business Car Finance is a proper company?

Business Car Finance Ltd is licensed by the Office of Fair Trading (number 619294) to provide advice and finance to UK businesses and consumers. We are also registered with the Information Commissioners office (number Z139950X) to store and handle customer personal data in a confidential and responsible manner. Our company registration number is 6615262.