If a car has finance outstanding, the finance company may still have a legal interest in the vehicle. This can cause serious problems for a buyer if the finance is not settled before the sale is completed.
Why outstanding finance matters
A seller may not always tell you that a vehicle still has finance attached. In some cases, the person selling the car may not legally own it outright. A finance check helps identify whether finance interest may be recorded against the vehicle.
How can you check?
- Use the vehicle registration number
- Run a vehicle history check before payment
- Ask the seller for proof that any finance has been settled
- Be cautious if the seller rushes you or avoids finance questions
Does HPI Check Scotland check finance?
Our Full Check includes finance status information where supplied by our data provider. If finance interest is recorded, you should ask the seller for settlement confirmation before buying.
Check finance before buying
A quick check could help you avoid buying a vehicle with hidden finance risk.
Start your finance check