Which Electric Car Should I Buy?

man using his phone to research which electric car to buy

With high inflation outstripping wage and benefit increases, the UK is going through a serious cost of living crisis. As a result, people are looking to cut costs in every area of their lives – and driving is no exception.

Economical cars can help you do that, saving you on fuel or even road tax over time. While it might seem like a small amount, every penny and pound will count as we all feel the squeeze over the coming months and years.

Keep reading as we look at 8 of the most economical cars that can make driving more affordable.

Most economical electric cars

First and foremost, electric vehicles account for many of the most economical cars on the market. That’s because they’re exempt from road tax thanks to zero emissions, cheaper to run because of fewer moving parts, and cheaper to power with electricity costing less than diesel or petrol.

On the flipside, they’re obviously more expensive to buy. That’s where a car loan finance calculator can help, showing you how the cost can be spread. To make things even more economical, here are some of the cheapest models available…

Fiat 500 Action

Priced at around £21,000 brand new, the Fiat 500 Action is one of the cheapest electric cars available. That’s partly down to its smaller 24kWh battery (compared to 42 kWh on previous models). As a result, the range is a modest 118 miles, making it ideal for urban commutes, short trips and general day-to-day use as long as you have a home charger.

Vauxhall Corsa-e

If you’re looking for something that can go a little further, the Vauxhall Corsa-e is a good option. The supermini’s official range is 222 miles, with prices starting around £25,000 brand new. It’s nice and lightweight so the charge won’t be used up unnecessarily. Naturally, with both of these cars, there’s a lot of money to be saved going for a used, older model.

Most economical hybrid cars

If you’re not ready to be plugging in just yet, or maybe you live in a remote area where chargers aren’t readily available, hybrids offer a good alternative. They use regenerative braking to generate electricity while driving, meaning you can supplement fuel from the pump without any extra work.

Toyota Yaris (and Yaris Cross)

Toyota is leading the way when it comes to hybrid efficiency. Both its Yaris 1.5 Hybrid and Yaris Cross 1.5 Hybrid offer around 60mpg on average.

The standard Yaris is smaller and cheaper to buy, making it the most economical hybrid car that’s ideal for individuals, couples or small families. As a small SUV, the Yaris Cross provides all that, plus a little extra space and the sought-after SUV styling – albeit at a little extra cost.

Elsewhere, the Toyota Prius is another top contender. While it doesn’t quite match the Yaris for fuel-efficiency, it’s been around for much longer, meaning there are a greater choice of older, used vehicles at a cheaper price.

Most economical diesel cars

While cars that are powered solely by fuel burning can’t quite match the efficiency of electric and hybrid models, they’re still some of the most economical cars, thanks to their lower price tags. Of the two fuels, diesel is known for its better fuel economy – making the next two cars a pretty good option overall…

Peugeot 208

With a 1.5-litre BlueHDi diesel engine, the Peugeot 208 achieves around 70mpg. Despite being a relatively small car, its five-door design makes it easy enough for rear passengers to get in and out. Its 311 litres of boot space makes it similar to other small cars, with the option to fold down rear seats for a 1,100 litre total.

Vauxhall Corsa

A second mention for the much-loved Vauxhall Corsa – this time for its 1.5 Turbo D model rather than its electric counterpart. It’s almost a carbon copy of the Peugeot 208 with the tiniest difference in mpg and boot space. That said, it does have a more responsive drive, meaning you can go economical without feeling it on every corner.

Most economical petrol cars

Out of all the fuel options, petrol is typically the least efficient – but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s not economical. There are plenty of petrol cars to choose from with small engines, which makes them cheaper to buy and run. By choosing a smaller petrol car, you can still get from A to B at a relatively low cost.

Peugeot 108

First on sale in 2014, the Peugeot 108 is the quintessential economical car. It has an official mpg of just under 59mpg, thanks to a modest 1-litre engine and small, lightweight design. That does pose some issues for practicality, with the car and its 180-litre boot more suited to people travelling alone or as a pair. However, if you’re looking to cut costs, it’s hard to go better than this reliable city car.

Citroen C1

Like our top diesel contenders, we have another case of two similar cars matching each other stride for stride. The Citroen C1 is another economical car powered by petrol, with the same mpg as Peugeot’s city car – though it does come with a slightly bigger boot.

Keep your car economical

With the cost of fuel at an all-time high, not to mention everything else rising in price, it’s never been more important to have a car that’s economical to run. Invariably, that means you’re better off with newer models that are more fuel-efficient.

With My Car Credit, you can make your purchase as economical as your up-to-date car. We compare finance from our established network of lenders, saving you time while ensuring you get an affordable deal that spreads the cost of your next car.

If you have any questions about our process, don’t hesitate to contact our team on enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

My Credit Rating

Excellent

  • You are a home owner
  • You have been on the electoral role for a long period of time
  • You have current credit arrangements and mortgage with no defaults
  • You have no CCJs, credit arrears or missed payments
  • You rarely apply for credit
  • You are employed or self-employed

Good

  • You are on the electoral role
  • You are a home owner or long standing tenant
  • You have a stable employment history
  • You have current credit arrangements with occasional missed payments
  • You have no CCJs

Fair

  • You are or have recently been on the electoral role
  • You may have recently changed address
  • You may have occasional missed payments
  • You may have an old CCJ
  • You may have regularly applied for credit

Poor

  • You may have had frequent changes in address
  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • You may have exceeded credit card limits
  • You may have missed payments on current agreements
  • You may have had a CCJ in the past

Bad

  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • Your credit cards are over their limits
  • You have recent CCJs
  • You may have been refused credit elsewhere
  • You may be in a debt management plan
£

X monthly repayments of
£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

8 of the Most Economical Cars to Help You Save Money

Manin yellow top in a convertible car

With high inflation outstripping wage and benefit increases, the UK is going through a serious cost of living crisis. As a result, people are looking to cut costs in every area of their lives – and driving is no exception.

Economical cars can help you do that, saving you on fuel or even road tax over time. While it might seem like a small amount, every penny and pound will count as we all feel the squeeze over the coming months and years.

Keep reading as we look at 8 of the most economical cars that can make driving more affordable.

Most economical electric cars

First and foremost, electric vehicles account for many of the most economical cars on the market. That’s because they’re exempt from road tax thanks to zero emissions, cheaper to run because of fewer moving parts, and cheaper to power with electricity costing less than diesel or petrol.

On the flipside, they’re obviously more expensive to buy. That’s where a car loan finance calculator can help, showing you how the cost can be spread. To make things even more economical, here are some of the cheapest models available…

Fiat 500 Action

Priced at around £21,000 brand new, the Fiat 500 Action is one of the cheapest electric cars available. That’s partly down to its smaller 24kWh battery (compared to 42 kWh on previous models). As a result, the range is a modest 118 miles, making it ideal for urban commutes, short trips and general day-to-day use as long as you have a home charger.

Vauxhall Corsa-e

If you’re looking for something that can go a little further, the Vauxhall Corsa-e is a good option. The supermini’s official range is 222 miles, with prices starting around £25,000 brand new. It’s nice and lightweight so the charge won’t be used up unnecessarily. Naturally, with both of these cars, there’s a lot of money to be saved going for a used, older model.

Most economical hybrid cars

If you’re not ready to be plugging in just yet, or maybe you live in a remote area where chargers aren’t readily available, hybrids offer a good alternative. They use regenerative braking to generate electricity while driving, meaning you can supplement fuel from the pump without any extra work.

Toyota Yaris (and Yaris Cross)

Toyota is leading the way when it comes to hybrid efficiency. Both its Yaris 1.5 Hybrid and Yaris Cross 1.5 Hybrid offer around 60mpg on average.

The standard Yaris is smaller and cheaper to buy, making it the most economical hybrid car that’s ideal for individuals, couples or small families. As a small SUV, the Yaris Cross provides all that, plus a little extra space and the sought-after SUV styling – albeit at a little extra cost.

Elsewhere, the Toyota Prius is another top contender. While it doesn’t quite match the Yaris for fuel-efficiency, it’s been around for much longer, meaning there are a greater choice of older, used vehicles at a cheaper price.

Most economical diesel cars

While cars that are powered solely by fuel burning can’t quite match the efficiency of electric and hybrid models, they’re still some of the most economical cars, thanks to their lower price tags. Of the two fuels, diesel is known for its better fuel economy – making the next two cars a pretty good option overall…

Peugeot 208

With a 1.5-litre BlueHDi diesel engine, the Peugeot 208 achieves around 70mpg. Despite being a relatively small car, its five-door design makes it easy enough for rear passengers to get in and out. Its 311 litres of boot space makes it similar to other small cars, with the option to fold down rear seats for a 1,100 litre total.

Vauxhall Corsa

A second mention for the much-loved Vauxhall Corsa – this time for its 1.5 Turbo D model rather than its electric counterpart. It’s almost a carbon copy of the Peugeot 208 with the tiniest difference in mpg and boot space. That said, it does have a more responsive drive, meaning you can go economical without feeling it on every corner.

Most economical petrol cars

Out of all the fuel options, petrol is typically the least efficient – but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s not economical. There are plenty of petrol cars to choose from with small engines, which makes them cheaper to buy and run. By choosing a smaller petrol car, you can still get from A to B at a relatively low cost.

Peugeot 108

First on sale in 2014, the Peugeot 108 is the quintessential economical car. It has an official mpg of just under 59mpg, thanks to a modest 1-litre engine and small, lightweight design. That does pose some issues for practicality, with the car and its 180-litre boot more suited to people travelling alone or as a pair. However, if you’re looking to cut costs, it’s hard to go better than this reliable city car.

Citroen C1

Like our top diesel contenders, we have another case of two similar cars matching each other stride for stride. The Citroen C1 is another economical car powered by petrol, with the same mpg as Peugeot’s city car – though it does come with a slightly bigger boot.

Keep your car economical

With the cost of fuel at an all-time high, not to mention everything else rising in price, it’s never been more important to have a car that’s economical to run. Invariably, that means you’re better off with newer models that are more fuel-efficient.

With My Car Credit, you can make your purchase as economical as your up-to-date car. We compare finance from our established network of lenders, saving you time while ensuring you get an affordable deal that spreads the cost of your next car.

If you have any questions about our process, don’t hesitate to contact our team on enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

My Credit Rating

Excellent

  • You are a home owner
  • You have been on the electoral role for a long period of time
  • You have current credit arrangements and mortgage with no defaults
  • You have no CCJs, credit arrears or missed payments
  • You rarely apply for credit
  • You are employed or self-employed

Good

  • You are on the electoral role
  • You are a home owner or long standing tenant
  • You have a stable employment history
  • You have current credit arrangements with occasional missed payments
  • You have no CCJs

Fair

  • You are or have recently been on the electoral role
  • You may have recently changed address
  • You may have occasional missed payments
  • You may have an old CCJ
  • You may have regularly applied for credit

Poor

  • You may have had frequent changes in address
  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • You may have exceeded credit card limits
  • You may have missed payments on current agreements
  • You may have had a CCJ in the past

Bad

  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • Your credit cards are over their limits
  • You have recent CCJs
  • You may have been refused credit elsewhere
  • You may be in a debt management plan
£

X monthly repayments of
£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

What’s the Cheapest Way to Finance a Car?

Motorway at dusk

Car finance is an accessible way to purchase a vehicle. Whether you’re after a new or nearly new vehicle, there are various different kinds of car finance that can help you drive off into the sunset with minimal stress. In this post, we’ll explore them in a little more detail to determine the cheapest way to finance a car.

Financing a car – the cheapest options in the UK

Purchasing the vehicle itself is likely to be the steepest cost, but you should also consider other costs like running and maintenance fees, as well as any interest rates or other costs you may be required to pay. Here are the basics on each method of financing a car.

Cash

The cheapest way to finance a car is with one up-front payment. As a cash buyer, you’re able to fund the entire cost of the car immediately, meaning that you’ll own the vehicle outright. Being a cash buyer means you’re invulnerable to any interest rates, monthly loan repayments, or having to repay more on a finance agreement than the car is worth. You can also sell the car at any time.

However, you do have to be able to fork out what the car is worth in one go – which is a lot more than most individuals can afford. It also means you are entirely responsible for any servicing and maintenance costs.

Personal loans

Personal loan rates are nearing an all-time low, and are therefore the next cheapest way to finance a car after cash purchases. With personal loans – or unsecured loans – you’ll borrow a fixed sum which you’ll repay over a pre-determined amount of time (usually one to seven years) and will also pay interest at the same time.

If you have a good credit score, personal loans can be secured with relative ease, and by shopping around and comparing the APR, you can secure a competitive rate. You’ll be the legal owner of the vehicle, so can sell it whenever you want, but monthly repayments of a personal loan can be higher than with alternative car finance.

Finding the cheapest car finance

If neither of the above are viable options for you, there are alternative ways to get a car finance quote and secure a deal that suits you to save money. Be aware that you will likely receive better deals and cheaper monthly payments if you have a good credit score, but you can find a car finance company that will still accept you if your score is less than ideal.

Below we’ll run through three car finance options that are popular in the UK.

Hire purchase agreements (HP)

If you’re struggling to get a cheap personal loan, a hire purchase agreement may be for you. You won’t own the vehicle until you’ve made the final repayment – the car is used as an asset against the loan. As such, if you fail to make your repayments, the lender has the right to repossess the vehicle. A hire purchase differs from other options in this way.

You’ll typically make a deposit of around 10% (although there are no-deposit options) and from then on, you’ll have a series of pre-determined monthly repayments. These can, depending on the agreement, be low monthly payments. If you want to own the car outright at the end of the term, a HP agreement is a good route to take. Repayment terms are flexible, you’ll often be offered competitive fixed interest rates, there aren’t usually any mileage caps, and a hire purchase agreement is easier to be approved for than other car finance.

Personal contract purchase (PCP)

Personal contract purchase is another popular car finance option. If you’re hunting for the cheapest way to finance a car outright, PCP might not suit. But if you’re a fan of chopping and changing vehicles, this option is ideal.

PCP finance deals often have low deposits as well as flexible repayment terms with low monthly payments. That’s because you only cover the cost of a car’s depreciation, plus interest, when paying the finance company each month.

PCP explained

You can choose to own the car at the end of the finance term, in which case you’ll make one final payment. This lump sum is known as the balloon payment, often much larger than your other monthly payments. If you don’t make the final balloon payment, you can simply hand the car back to the dealer with the option of upgrading to another new car.

The key difference here is that lenders know they might be getting the car back. As a result, it’s common for them to impose mileage limits on cars to protect them from excess depreciation in their value. Limits are typically between 5,000 to 10,000 miles per year with additional payments for anything over the agreed amount.

Bear in mind that, although the monthly repayments for PCP can be lower than HP, you’ll often end up paying more overall if you want to buy the vehicle outright. If you exceed a mileage cap or cause wear and tear, you’ll also have to cough up.

Personal contract hire (PCH)

PCH is a way of leasing the vehicle – it’s essentially a long-term rental. Servicing and maintenance fees are included, though you may have to pay for car insurance and road tax separately.

There’s a mileage cap as well as an initial deposit. In many cases, PCH can work out cheaper overall than PCP as you don’t have any option to purchase the car.

With PCH leasing, you hand the car back to the dealer at the end of your finance term. Your repayments are fixed, but payment terms are flexible and you can generally change providers.

How to reduce your monthly payments

Make a larger deposit

A simple way to reduce your loan is by making a larger deposit. This cuts the amount you need to borrow, meaning less money is being spread across the agreement term. It will also minimise the amount of interest you owe your lender.

A larger downpayment also provides more security to the lender, which could get you a better rate on your loan.

Avoid all-inclusive deals

There’s no doubt about it. Paying one amount for your car makes life easier. With some providers, you can pay a single amount for the car, loan, insurance, tax, servicing, maintenance – the lot. However, you’re often charged a premium for the convenience.

If your budget is tight, you’ll typically get a better deal by arranging everything yourself. That means finding your own insurance, paying for tax and keeping up to date with servicing and maintenance to keep the car in a good condition.

Decide what you want earlier

Flexibility is a buzzword when it comes to car finance. But it does come at a cost. PCP deals offer the most flexibility as you get to decide whether or not to actually purchase the car at the end of the deal – having driven it for a few years.

If possible, it could work in your favour to make this decision before starting a loan. If you don’t want to own the car, PCH may be cheaper than PCP. If you do want to own the car, HP is often the cheapest way to pay.

Improve your credit score

Credit scores give lenders an idea of how much risk is involved in a car finance application. If all your bills are fully paid on time and you have a history of lending responsibly, you present less risk, so you could access better deals at a lower overall cost.

Take a look at our article on improving your credit score for more information.

Shop around

Last but not least, it always pays to shop around. Getting a loan or finance is no exception. Whether it’s with the bank or a specialist lender, you should never settle for the first deal you’re offered. Car finance brokers make this easier by comparing lots of deals without you having to jump through hoops over and over again.

Easily navigate the car finance market

Searching the car finance market and securing affordable car finance can feel overwhelming – but it doesn’t have to be. My Car Credit has hundreds of helpful blogs and articles for you to browse through. We also have a large network of trusted lenders to help you find the cheapest way to finance a car for your requirements. try our online car finance calculator to get the ball rolling.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

My Credit Rating

Excellent

  • You are a home owner
  • You have been on the electoral role for a long period of time
  • You have current credit arrangements and mortgage with no defaults
  • You have no CCJs, credit arrears or missed payments
  • You rarely apply for credit
  • You are employed or self-employed

Good

  • You are on the electoral role
  • You are a home owner or long standing tenant
  • You have a stable employment history
  • You have current credit arrangements with occasional missed payments
  • You have no CCJs

Fair

  • You are or have recently been on the electoral role
  • You may have recently changed address
  • You may have occasional missed payments
  • You may have an old CCJ
  • You may have regularly applied for credit

Poor

  • You may have had frequent changes in address
  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • You may have exceeded credit card limits
  • You may have missed payments on current agreements
  • You may have had a CCJ in the past

Bad

  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • Your credit cards are over their limits
  • You have recent CCJs
  • You may have been refused credit elsewhere
  • You may be in a debt management plan
£

X monthly repayments of
£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

Is 100k Miles a Lot for a Used Car?

Car dashboard

If you’ve spotted a used car at a good price but with high mileage, you might be wondering ‘is 100k miles a lot for a used car?’ The answer to this will vary depending on several factors. Read on to learn more.

Is 100k miles too much for a used car?

There is no one answer as to what counts as too many miles on a used car. This will vary on the age and make of the vehicle. Firstly, you’ll need to put that 100k miles into the context of the car’s age. Average mileage on a vehicle will usually be in the range of 7,000-12,000 miles per year.

If the vehicle is only a few years old and already has 100k miles on the clock, it has seen a lot of usage and may be experiencing higher levels of wear and tear, which could quickly become costly through repairs. So, if we’re asking ‘is 100k miles a lot for a used car’ in relation to a newer vehicle, the answer could very well be, ‘yes’.

If the vehicle has been used for over 10 years, you are potentially getting a much better deal. 100k broken down over 15 years, for example, means the car has been driven less than 7,000 miles a year. However, a more modern vehicle also comes with its own technological advancements, so a 2018 car with 100k miles would potentially drive far better than a model from 2012.

Is a high mileage car worth buying?

Ultimately, you will need to research the different car models and how well they run after reaching 100k miles. If you have a specific car in your sights, you might want to ask about its service history and any accidents or issues from the previous owner.

The lower price and slower depreciation can make high mileage used cars attractive to drivers. A car that goes from 10,000 miles to 30,000 miles will depreciate more than one going from 100k to 120k, for example.

However, they come with many risks – including the lack of a valid warranty and the higher potential for wear and tear. They’re also less likely to be accepted for car financing. Whilst cars with mileage over 100k may be just right for some motorists, lower mileage vehicles come with a level of security that many drivers can’t ignore.

If you’re interested in financing an up-to-date low-mileage vehicle, why not get a car finance quote to get the ball rolling today?

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

My Credit Rating

Excellent

  • You are a home owner
  • You have been on the electoral role for a long period of time
  • You have current credit arrangements and mortgage with no defaults
  • You have no CCJs, credit arrears or missed payments
  • You rarely apply for credit
  • You are employed or self-employed

Good

  • You are on the electoral role
  • You are a home owner or long standing tenant
  • You have a stable employment history
  • You have current credit arrangements with occasional missed payments
  • You have no CCJs

Fair

  • You are or have recently been on the electoral role
  • You may have recently changed address
  • You may have occasional missed payments
  • You may have an old CCJ
  • You may have regularly applied for credit

Poor

  • You may have had frequent changes in address
  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • You may have exceeded credit card limits
  • You may have missed payments on current agreements
  • You may have had a CCJ in the past

Bad

  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • Your credit cards are over their limits
  • You have recent CCJs
  • You may have been refused credit elsewhere
  • You may be in a debt management plan
£

X monthly repayments of
£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

Are Second Hand Electric Cars Worth Buying?

Electric car at charging station

From minimising your environmental footprint to eliminating petrol expenses, electric cars (EVs) offer some seriously good benefits. Purchasing new can be expensive, which leaves many Brits asking the question, “are second hand electric cars worth buying?”

Like any big purchase, it’s important to consider the pros and cons before signing on the dotted line. If you’re thinking about making the switch to electric, or you’re just interested in finding out more about the EV trend, this article is for you.

Read on as we cover everything you need to know about buying second-hand electric cars and whether they’re a good investment.

A nation of EV enthusiasts

Before we get stuck in it’s worth taking a moment to recognise just how popular EVs are becoming in the UK. The nation has wholeheartedly embraced eco-friendly vehicles, with the latest statistics revealing that while overall car sales slumped in 2021, the EV market experienced an impressive growth rate of 66% from 2019.

Around 175,000 new EVs were registered on British roads in 2021, with best-sellers like the Tesla Model 3 representing more than 25,000 individual sales.

In total, more than 700,000 plug-in vehicles were registered by British motorists in November 2021. This includes more than 350,000 fully battery-powered EVs and almost 350,000 plug-in hybrids. These figures put the UK on track to hit more than a million registered EVs by the end of 2022. A huge achievement!

There’s plenty to love about EVs but are second hand electric cars worth buying? Below, we spotlight some key factors to consider when making a decision:

Your lifestyle

Whether you buy new or used, it’s worth factoring in your lifestyle when deciding whether to make the switch to electric. EVs are a terrific concept and do offer “eco prestige” but for some motorists, they’re simply not convenient.

For example, access to off-road parking, so you can easily recharge your EV overnight, is desirable. Many second-hand EVs don’t offer the same rapid-charge technology as newer models, which makes off-road parking essential.

Similarly, if you’re driving long distances a second-hand EV may not offer the same impressive mileage as a newer model. That said, EV mileage is rapidly improving which means models from 2021 or 2020 may easily meet your needs.

Financial benefits

Even second-hand electric vehicles can be expensive, with Karolina Edwards-Smajda, Retailer & Consumer Product Director at Auto Trader describing the market as a “catch-22” in a recent interview with Car Magazine.

“When it comes to low-emission vehicles, the industry is facing a Catch-22 situation,” says Karolina. “The growing appetite of AFVs [alternative fuel vehicles] offer the industry a great opportunity for growth, but for mass adoption, the average price needs to be more accessible to more people. However, with so few vehicles in the market, even second-hand cars are being pushed out of financial reach for most consumers.”

Karolina makes a good point, but it’s important to remember that the cost of your purchase will be offset by several factors. These include:

Savings at the forecourt

Buy a fully battery-powered second-hand EV and you’ll eliminate petrol expenses from your life completely.

Clean air zones

Cities across the UK are introducing clean air zones designed to deter emissions-heavy vehicles and encourage the use of public transport and EVs. Driving a second-hand EV can be a savvy way to sidestep the costs associated with entering areas like Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) in London, which can cost you £12.50 per day if your car doesn’t meet ULEZ standards.

Lower registration costs

When it comes to vehicle registration costs, the Department for Transport offers big savings for EV drivers.

Budget is important, so don’t forget to do the maths and calculate how much you can afford to borrow before browsing. Our car loan APR estimator is designed to streamline the process and make it as easy as possible to crunch the numbers. 

Skipping long wait times

The global semiconductor chip shortage has wreaked havoc on the car manufacturing industry and EVs are no exception. The average EV calls for hundreds, sometimes even thousands, of these tiny chips. As a result, supply can’t keep up with demand which means you could face wait times of more than a year when buying a new electric car. Buying a used EV is a clever way to skip the long wait times and get behind the wheel of an electric car ASAP. 

The best second-hand EVs to buy

While demand is high and supply is low, there are still some great deals to be had when it comes to second-hand electric cars. If you take the time to shop around and back your search with help from an expert broker, you can drastically increase your chances of securing a good deal.

There are some exciting used models up for grabs in 2022, with some of our favourites listed below. All offer great value for money and excellent stats in terms of mileage and driver-friendly features:

  • Nissan Leaf
  • Tesla Model 3
  • BMW i3
  • Volkswagen eGolf
  • Tesla Model S
  • Jaguar i-Pace
  • Citroen C-Zero
  • Renault ZOE
  • Smart ForFour electric

The future of the EV market

Despite the semiconductor chip shortage that’s caused supply issues around the world, analysts predict a bright future for the EV market. In 2022, you can expect to see almost 50 new EV models launched by manufacturers, including a huge range of SUVs. Keep an eye out for models by leading manufacturers such as Tesla, Volkswagen, BMW, Audi, and Mercedes.

We’re also excited to see new offerings from companies like Lucid, Aiways, Fisker and Rivian. These high-voltage newcomers are set to shake up the market and challenge the dominance of EV giants such as Tesla and Nissan in the UK. This is great news for the second-hand market, with an influx of new models set to increase supply and bring prices down.

Financing your second-hand electric car

Ready to start your search for a second-hand EV? Whether you’re in the market for a zippy Nissan Leaf or a sleek Jaguar I-Pace, we’re here to help. Apply online without impacting your credit score or get in touch via email or phone 01246 458 810 to find out more about how our team of advisors can help you supercharge your search and secure the best deals on EV finance.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

My Credit Rating

Excellent

  • You are a home owner
  • You have been on the electoral role for a long period of time
  • You have current credit arrangements and mortgage with no defaults
  • You have no CCJs, credit arrears or missed payments
  • You rarely apply for credit
  • You are employed or self-employed

Good

  • You are on the electoral role
  • You are a home owner or long standing tenant
  • You have a stable employment history
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  • You have no CCJs

Fair

  • You are or have recently been on the electoral role
  • You may have recently changed address
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Poor

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Bad

  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • Your credit cards are over their limits
  • You have recent CCJs
  • You may have been refused credit elsewhere
  • You may be in a debt management plan
£

X monthly repayments of
£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

What to Look for When Buying a First Car?

Young man driving car with window down

Whether you’ve just turned 17 and are shopping for your first ride or are an older motorist looking to get behind the wheel, buying a first car is an exciting milestone. There’s lots to think about, which is why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide covering what to look for when buying a first car. From mileage and models to shopping around for finance, read on to find out more about what you should prioritise when buying your first set of wheels.

New vs second hand

Whether to purchase new and savour that ‘new car smell’ or unlock the savings that come with a second-hand vehicle is one of the first questions to ask yourself when considering what to look for when buying a first car.

Budget will likely be a big factor, with recent data from GoCompare revealing the average new driver spends around £5,000 on their first car. This suggests most new motorists opt for used models, which can be a great way to save money and stretch your budget further. While several factors have pushed up demand and prices for used cars over the past few years, the good news is analysts expect the market to cool off soon.

Mileage and wear and tear

If you’re thinking about the second-hand route, mileage will be a big factor when considering what to look for when buying a first car. The odometer paints an instant picture of how far the car has driven and what kind of life it’s had.

In the UK, the average motorist racks up around 10,000 miles per year. So, a two-year old car should have around 20,000 miles on the odometer to be considered average mileage. Anything more would push it into the high mileage category and anything less into the low mileage category.

Of course, maintenance and servicing play a big role in the overall condition of the car and the engine. Both are important variables to consider when making your list of what to look for when buying a first car. For example, while a three-year old car with 50,000 miles on the odometer may be considered high mileage, if it’s in immaculate condition and comes with a flawless servicing history it could be a fantastic deal.

Similarly, if you’re looking at a seven-year-old car with 40,000 miles on the odometer but the vehicle appears bruised, battered and has no servicing history to speak of, you may want to think twice about whether it’s a good deal. 

New cars are always a tempting option, offering not just an ultra-fresh aroma but also reliability and peace of mind. Many new cars come with free servicing and warranties, which means you won’t have to think about forking out for these expenses for several years. Initially, the higher price tag of new cars may seem to push them out of your budget. But if you consider finance, a new car could be well within your reach as a new motorist. More on this later!

Petrol powered vs electric

If you’re thinking about a petrol or diesel-powered vehicle, emissions are worth considering as they can affect things like how much road tax you pay and even where you’re allowed to drive in some cities.

Electric vehicles (EVs) are the future of personal transport, with more than 400,000 pure-electric models humming along British roads in February of this year. With fuel prices soaring, EVs are more appealing than ever. Not only do EVs unlock huge savings on fuel but they also slash your environmental footprint and carbon emissions. If you’re an eco-warrior looking to tighten your budget, an EV could be a great option for your first car.

With both the national government and local councils continually upgrading EV charge networks across the country, it’s never been easier to drive an electric vehicle. Zap Map is a fantastic resource and makes it easy to find EV charge points at your fingertips. If you’re not fully sold on 100% electric, a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) could be a great compromise.

Opting for old favourites

When it comes to cars, British motorists are pretty clear about what they like. If you’re not sure what to look for when buying a first car, taking cues from other drivers can be a great place to start.

The small and zippy Ford Fiesta is consistently crowned one of the best-selling cars in the UK and it’s easy to see why. It’s compact and easy to drive in cities, effortlessly cruising along motorways and slipping into parallel parking spots. It’s also an excellent little ride in towns and villages where you might encounter winding roads and laneways. Alongside the Ford Fiesta are fellow bestselling models like MINI, Toyota Corolla and Hyundai Tucson. The latter is a great option if you’re looking for something a little roomier for kids, pets, or both!

A good finance deal

Whether to pay cash or take out a car finance loan is one of the biggest questions you’ll face when buying your first car. There are pros and cons to each and it’s important to consider your own unique circumstances when deciding.

The benefits of buying a new car with cash speak for themselves, with zero interest and no repayments to worry about. That said, it’s an unrealistic option for most new car buyers. This is where finance steps up. Purchasing a car on finance gives you the freedom to increase your budget and get the keys to a car you actually want to drive.

When researching what to look for when buying a first car, a good finance deal should be front of mind. Whether you’re buying new or used, shopping around is one of the most important steps you can take when buying your first car. It’s simpler than you might think, with our purpose-built calculator making it easy to get a car finance quote in a matter of minutes.

Want to know more about how auto finance can help you secure your first car? Get in touch with our friendly team today to discuss your options and find out more about the My Car Credit service.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

My Credit Rating

Excellent

  • You are a home owner
  • You have been on the electoral role for a long period of time
  • You have current credit arrangements and mortgage with no defaults
  • You have no CCJs, credit arrears or missed payments
  • You rarely apply for credit
  • You are employed or self-employed

Good

  • You are on the electoral role
  • You are a home owner or long standing tenant
  • You have a stable employment history
  • You have current credit arrangements with occasional missed payments
  • You have no CCJs

Fair

  • You are or have recently been on the electoral role
  • You may have recently changed address
  • You may have occasional missed payments
  • You may have an old CCJ
  • You may have regularly applied for credit

Poor

  • You may have had frequent changes in address
  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • You may have exceeded credit card limits
  • You may have missed payments on current agreements
  • You may have had a CCJ in the past

Bad

  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • Your credit cards are over their limits
  • You have recent CCJs
  • You may have been refused credit elsewhere
  • You may be in a debt management plan
£

X monthly repayments of
£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

Is a Diesel Car Worth Buying?

Person filling the car up with Diesel

Diesel cars have fallen out of fashion. Once lauded for their lower CO2 emissions, lower road tax, and better fuel economy – diesel cars have an average of 20% better fuel economy than petrol vehicles – diesel cars comprised only 37.6% of total vehicles on Britain’s roads in 2020.

So, what’s the reason for this decline in popularity, and is a diesel car worth buying? This article considers the facts.

Why are diesel cars losing popularity?

In March 2021, the European Court of Justice ruled that the UK had failed to tackle air pollution in any systematic way. The Court has imposed a fine on the UK government, which has, in turn, responded with actions like the 2030 petrol ban.

From 2030, the Government’s petrol and diesel ban comes into place, meaning that any new vehicle powered by either petrol or diesel won’t be sold in the UK. After 2035, any new vehicle sold will need to be electric. Second-hand vehicles won’t be affected by the ban and will continue to be sold in showrooms.

Diesel engines are amongst the most polluting on the roads as a result of what’s called a DPF or Diesel Particulate Filter. This is inside the exhaust system and gets easily blocked when a diesel car is limited to short journeys, because the car remains too cool to burn off its particulates. It’s blocked DPFs that cause diesel cars to be incredibly polluting – and it’s not helped by the fact that DPFs are expensive to clean and to replace.

Are diesel cars worth buying?

Whether or not a diesel car is worth buying is entirely dependent on what kind of driver you are. Diesel cars still have a far better fuel economy than either petrol or hybrid models, provided you travel a high annual mileage (over 15,000 a year as an average) or regularly drive on motorways.

If your journeys are typically short, low-speed, or start-stop – for example, if you travel around urban centres frequently – then a diesel car is a less ideal vehicle. Your DPF is more likely to get blocked, which may mean an expensive repair job for you. You’re also more likely to be polluting with a diesel driven at lower speeds than either a petrol or hybrid.

If you do have a diesel car and drive for short distances at low speeds, then you should aim to make a long drive (over 40 miles, on a motorway) once a month to avoid the risk of your DPF blocking.

That said, because there’s a slump in interest for diesel cars, you can get some fantastic deals on new and second-hand models. These discounts are so significant that they may even offset the higher tax rate you’ll pay on a diesel model. Just ensure that you receive a full service history for any diesel model you’re considering – if the previous owner used the car for start-stop, low-speed journeys, then the DPF may need replacing, which will cost you a serious amount of money.

Will diesel cars be banned in the UK?

There is a risk that diesel vehicles will be banned in city and town centres in the coming years.

London already has the Ultra Low Emissions Zone (ULEZ) in place, which costs diesel cars registered before September 2015 and petrol cars registered before 2006 an extra £12.50 a day on top of the Congestion Charge. Further city and town centres such as Leeds, Oxford, Birmingham, and Greater Manchester, have plans to implement similar policies in the future.

Should you buy a diesel car in 2022?

Whether the purchase of a diesel car in 2022 is a good idea depends on your driving habits. If you have a high annual mileage and regularly travel at speed (that is, on motorways), then a diesel car will have an advantageous fuel economy. If you’re shopping around for a diesel vehicle, you’ll find great deals available as a result of their slump in popularity.

However, if you predominantly drive in city centres, take start-stop journeys, and have a lower average mileage, then a diesel car is likely not the best idea.

If you have concerns about whether a diesel car is right for you, you can contact My Car Credit’s team of specialists today. They can help you find a car loan quote for your diesel vehicle (or alternative fuel) and answer any questions that you may have.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

My Credit Rating

Excellent

  • You are a home owner
  • You have been on the electoral role for a long period of time
  • You have current credit arrangements and mortgage with no defaults
  • You have no CCJs, credit arrears or missed payments
  • You rarely apply for credit
  • You are employed or self-employed

Good

  • You are on the electoral role
  • You are a home owner or long standing tenant
  • You have a stable employment history
  • You have current credit arrangements with occasional missed payments
  • You have no CCJs

Fair

  • You are or have recently been on the electoral role
  • You may have recently changed address
  • You may have occasional missed payments
  • You may have an old CCJ
  • You may have regularly applied for credit

Poor

  • You may have had frequent changes in address
  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • You may have exceeded credit card limits
  • You may have missed payments on current agreements
  • You may have had a CCJ in the past

Bad

  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • Your credit cards are over their limits
  • You have recent CCJs
  • You may have been refused credit elsewhere
  • You may be in a debt management plan
£

X monthly repayments of
£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

Can I Buy a Car without a Log Book?

Dog in a car that was bought without a log book

A car’s logbook is also known as its V5C. It’s a red document that details information on the car, as well as specifying who is responsible for taxing and registering it. Although it’s both possible and legal to buy a car and have that car’s ownership transferred without a log book, we wouldn’t recommend doing so.

Why you should always buy a car with a log book

It’s possible that the person from whom you’re trying to purchase the vehicle has genuinely lost the logbook.

However, if they don’t have their log book, it could also indicate that the car is stolen or has finance still owed on it – typically, these will be logbook loans, where the vehicle’s owner used the logbook in order to secure a loan against it. You may consequently find yourself responsible for repaying this outstanding finance, despite having not owned the vehicle at the time the finance deal was established.

DVLA replacement log book service

The DVLA has announced a service for ordering a replacement log book, provided that no details on that log book – such as name or address – have changed. It costs £25, is delivered within five days, can be paid by credit or debit card, and the application process is online.

If you’ve found a vehicle that you want to purchase but the log book is missing, we recommend liaising with the seller to order a replacement log book. You can then carry out the deal as normal and follow standard protocol on advising the DVLA of transferred ownership.

Don’t forget that you can always check your eligibility for car finance with My Car Credit’s car finance checker. We’ll make your car finance journey smoother.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

My Credit Rating

Excellent

  • You are a home owner
  • You have been on the electoral role for a long period of time
  • You have current credit arrangements and mortgage with no defaults
  • You have no CCJs, credit arrears or missed payments
  • You rarely apply for credit
  • You are employed or self-employed

Good

  • You are on the electoral role
  • You are a home owner or long standing tenant
  • You have a stable employment history
  • You have current credit arrangements with occasional missed payments
  • You have no CCJs

Fair

  • You are or have recently been on the electoral role
  • You may have recently changed address
  • You may have occasional missed payments
  • You may have an old CCJ
  • You may have regularly applied for credit

Poor

  • You may have had frequent changes in address
  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • You may have exceeded credit card limits
  • You may have missed payments on current agreements
  • You may have had a CCJ in the past

Bad

  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • Your credit cards are over their limits
  • You have recent CCJs
  • You may have been refused credit elsewhere
  • You may be in a debt management plan
£

X monthly repayments of
£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

Which Used Cars Have Zero or Low Road Tax?

Man driving in a used car

Whether you cruise along country lanes or speed along urban motorways, if you’re behind the wheel of a car you’re subject to road tax. Brits are a thrifty bunch. As such, it’s no surprise that many motorists take steps to minimise their road tax payments.

So, which used cars have zero road tax? Here’s our guide to beating the Exchequer and keeping your road tax payments as low (or non-existent) as possible.

What is road tax?

Road tax, or Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) as it’s officially referred to by the government, earns the Exchequer around £40 billion a year. This translates to around 5% of total government revenue. It’s a huge cash cow and plays a big role in topping up the kitty.

Contrary to popular belief, road tax isn’t necessarily used to maintain roads and doesn’t go directly to the Department for Transport. Instead, it’s channelled to the Exchequer along with other duties such as council tax. Sure, this fund can be used to fix potholes and build new motorways. However, VED can also be put towards the construction of schools, hospitals and other government-funded projects.

What can you expect to pay?

VED rates increase with inflation and as a result, payments tend to climb every year. If you drive a petrol or diesel car registered after April 1 2017, your annual flat VED rate is £155. For alternatively fuelled cars, including hybrid, LPG and bioethanol vehicles, the rate is £145. If you drive a luxury car valued at £40,000 or higher, an additional £335 is added for your first five years on the road.

Before you switch to the flat rate, you’ll pay an initial ‘first year’ registration amount determined by CO2 emissions. This can be up to £2,365, depending on the model and environmental credentials. All this changes if you drive an emissions-free vehicle, with VED dropping to zero, even if your car is worth more than £40,000.

The bottom line? Go electric and unlock big savings.

Embrace the EV revolution

In 2021, battery electric vehicles (BEVs) accounted for around 4% of new car sales in the UK. This may seem small, but it represents a huge leap compared to the 0.6% market share BEVs occupied in 2019. This is great news for used car buyers as an increase in new BEV sales translates to more choice on the preowned market. Today, you’re spoilt for choice with a huge range of all-electric saloons, hatchbacks and SUVs.

According to the UK government website “the electricity must come from an external source or an electric storage battery not connected to any source of power when the vehicle is moving to be exempt”.

Here are a few of our favourite models if you’re wondering which used cars have zero road tax.

Tesla Model S 2014

In 2014, a brand new Tesla Model S came with a price tag of up to £96,000. Opt for a second-hand model in 2022 and you can slash your budget to as low as £22,000. The high-end Model S was considered state-of-the-art in its day and still holds its own against newer models. The seven-seat models can take you from zero to 62mph in just 2.5 seconds, meaning the Tesla Model S doesn’t compromise on speed or power.

Sure, the latest Tesla models may feature exciting new bells and whistles, but the overall design remains very similar. All Tesla models continue to rely on the Supercharger network which means you won’t run into any headaches when looking for places to power up.

Nissan Leaf 2010

In its heyday the Nissan Leaf 2010 sold for between £30,000 to £40,000. Today, you can snap one up for as low as £3,000, depending on mileage. You’ll enjoy a compact size for easy inner-city driving and parking, excellent safety features and a surprisingly spacious interior. What’s not to love? A 108bhp motor promises plenty of power and while you won’t be able to hit more than 93mph, this punchy little model is perfect for urban driving.

Jaguar i-Pace 2018

If you want to go electric but would prefer a newer model, consider the Jaguar i-Pace 2018. In its launch year the Jaguar i-Pace would have cost you around £65,000. More if you wanted extra features. Today you can score these luxury EVs for as little as £40,000 and pay zero road tax. What’s more, the newer release date means the market isn’t flooded but if you can get your hands on a used Jaguar i-Pace 2018 you won’t regret it.

Opt for low emissions and save

Another great way to keep your road tax to a minimum is to opt for a low emissions vehicle. Road tax is determined by CO2 emissions which means the greener your car, the less you’ll pay. So, which used cars have low road tax?

Aim for a vehicle that falls into the 1 to 50 CO2 emissions (g/km) bracket and you’ll pay just £10 for your first-year registration tax. For cars in the 51 to 75 CO2 emissions (g/km) range you’ll pay £25. Compared to the £2345 you’ll have to fork out for vehicles with emissions of 255g/km or higher, the savings for low-emissions vehicles are enormous.

Go retro and avoid road tax

Wondering which used cars have low road tax? The UK government has confirmed that vehicles manufactured before 1 January 1981 are exempt from road tax. Why? It’s generally assumed vintage cars won’t rack up enough miles to make a significant contribution to CO2, hence the exemption. As such, if you’re willing to take your chance on a car manufactured before 1981, this could be a novel way to avoid road tax.

Get behind the wheel of a used car today

Now you know more about which used cars have zero road tax, it’s time to start shopping. Whether you’re searching for a used Ford Fiesta, a preowned Vauxhall Corsa or an eco-friendly electric model, we’re here to help. Check your car finance eligibility online or get in touch with the My Car Credit team to find out more about how we can get you behind the wheel of a low-tax used car and unlock big VED savings in the process.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

My Credit Rating

Excellent

  • You are a home owner
  • You have been on the electoral role for a long period of time
  • You have current credit arrangements and mortgage with no defaults
  • You have no CCJs, credit arrears or missed payments
  • You rarely apply for credit
  • You are employed or self-employed

Good

  • You are on the electoral role
  • You are a home owner or long standing tenant
  • You have a stable employment history
  • You have current credit arrangements with occasional missed payments
  • You have no CCJs

Fair

  • You are or have recently been on the electoral role
  • You may have recently changed address
  • You may have occasional missed payments
  • You may have an old CCJ
  • You may have regularly applied for credit

Poor

  • You may have had frequent changes in address
  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • You may have exceeded credit card limits
  • You may have missed payments on current agreements
  • You may have had a CCJ in the past

Bad

  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • Your credit cards are over their limits
  • You have recent CCJs
  • You may have been refused credit elsewhere
  • You may be in a debt management plan
£

X monthly repayments of
£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!

How Long Does It Take to Buy a Car?

Pregnant lady using phone to find a car

On the hunt for a new – or nearly new – set of wheels and wondering how much time it might take to buy one? It’s definitely not a task for your lunch break, as there are a number of variables which will impact how long it takes to buy a car. We look at the main factors to consider below.

Buying a car – what to consider 

After a house, buying a car is likely to be the second largest purchase you ever make. For that reason, it’s important not to rush it. In fact, 2020 research by Cox Automotive Research & Market Intelligence found that people are in the car buying ‘market’ for an average of 89 days.  

That might seem like a long time, but in reality, purchasing a car is a fairly time-consuming activity. Variables such as the below will impact exactly how long it takes to buy a car. 

Research 

First up, you’ve got to do your research. Is safety your priority, or are speed and style more important? What’s your budget, and what kind of financing do you need? Are you heading to a dealership, or are you okay with a private seller? 

This period can take the longest, and be a real time-sap – if you allow it to be. Answering these questions before beginning your research can help to streamline it. Plus, if you know what you want from the off, you’re less likely to spend time negotiating with the salesperson as they try to upsell expensive add-ons and features. 

Shopping around 

As we say above, you can speed the process up by going into the shopping process with a clear idea of what you want. Don’t forget to include test drive times in your shopping timeline – this will usually be around 30 minutes or so per test drive.  

It’s worth setting aside a day or two for the actual shopping part. Heading to different dealerships allows you to gauge which will offer you the best price and/or financing, helping you secure a deal that works for you.  

Remember that buying a new car will likely be faster than a used car. It may take longer to find a used model that you’re happy with, and you’ll also need it to be evaluated prior to purchase. A trade-in will also extend the buying period. 

Paperwork 

You can speed this process along by heading to the dealership or private seller with the following: 

  • Your licence
  • Registration 
  • Any agreed payment details including financing 
  • Proof of insurance 

Going in with your paperwork will speed up purchasing time, as you won’t be haggling with dealers over the specifics and any credit check and ensuing agreement will already have been pre-established.  

Car finance doesn’t have to take so long! 

Looking to cut down how long it takes to buy a car? You can use My Car Credit’s car finance calculator to get a no-obligation quote for car finance within minutes. Plus, if you have questions about the buying process, our friendly team are always on-hand.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

My Credit Rating

Excellent

  • You are a home owner
  • You have been on the electoral role for a long period of time
  • You have current credit arrangements and mortgage with no defaults
  • You have no CCJs, credit arrears or missed payments
  • You rarely apply for credit
  • You are employed or self-employed

Good

  • You are on the electoral role
  • You are a home owner or long standing tenant
  • You have a stable employment history
  • You have current credit arrangements with occasional missed payments
  • You have no CCJs

Fair

  • You are or have recently been on the electoral role
  • You may have recently changed address
  • You may have occasional missed payments
  • You may have an old CCJ
  • You may have regularly applied for credit

Poor

  • You may have had frequent changes in address
  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • You may have exceeded credit card limits
  • You may have missed payments on current agreements
  • You may have had a CCJ in the past

Bad

  • You may not be traceable on the voters roll
  • Your credit cards are over their limits
  • You have recent CCJs
  • You may have been refused credit elsewhere
  • You may be in a debt management plan
£

X monthly repayments of
£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£X

£X

*for illustration purposes only

No impact on your credit score*

Representative Example

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 10.9%, annual interest rate (fixed) 10.87%, 47 monthly payments of £191.50 followed by 1 payment of £201.50 (incl. estimated £10 option to purchase fee), a deposit of £0.00, total cost of credit is £1,702, total amount payable £9,202.

Evolution Funding Limited, trading as My Car Credit, is a credit broker and not a lender.

Please ensure you can afford the repayments for the duration of the loan before entering into a credit agreement.

*Initial application is a soft search. Should you progress, some lenders may perform a hard search on your credit file.

Require more help?

Got a question you can’t find the answer to, or need some advice and guidance around taking out car finance? Our Car Credit Specialists are friendly, experienced, and here to help so get in touch today!