Motoring Advice Archives

Electric Car FAQs – How Much to Charge?

Most owners of EVs prefer to charge their cars at home, but it can also be done via workplace or public charging spots. The amount that it costs to charge an electric car inevitably varies between these locales. As such, the numbers provided below are a guideline rather than a hard-and-fast rule, but this article provides a good overview for how much it costs to charge an electric car..

How to charge an electric car

There are three main ways that an EV can be charged. Each one will impact how much it costs to charge an electric car.

Home

This is the easiest way to charge an electric car. It can be done via a three-pin domestic socket, but it’s more energy efficient to charge an EV with a dedicated home charger, as these are three times faster than a three-pin socket. As EVs become more popular, there are increasingly flexible at-home charging options available.

At-home charging is contingent on being able to install a unit for EVs, which can be pricey. You may be able to secure on OZEV grant in order to fund this, however.

Workplace

Check whether your employer has workplace EV charging, which is being introduced as a scheme to encourage commuters to switch to electric cars.

Public

The public EV charging network is vast, and it may feel overwhelming. Units can be found at locations including car parks, retail parks and service stations.

How much does it cost to charge an electric car?

Be aware that it’s difficult to provide an exact costing for how much it costs to charge an EV, because this will depend on energy providers, amongst a whole host of other factors, including the location, tariff, charging speed and the vehicle’s battery capacity.

Home

Exactly how much it costs to charge an EV at home will depend entirely on your energy tariff. It also depends on the car that you’re charging up. Smaller vehicles will cost less than larger SUVs.

However, as a general rule, it’s cheaper to charge your electric car at home than either at a workplace or public charging spot. Charging your EV to full capacity generally ranges from under £5 to around £15, depending on factors such as battery size and tariff.

If you’re looking to purchase an EV and are thinking about changing your energy provider, it might be an idea to look for tariffs with more affordable off-peak hours. You can take advantage of these off-peak hours to charge your vehicle, making use of the lower electricity prices.

Workplace

If your company provides workplace charging, you may benefit from discounted or even free charging, depending on their offering.

Public

There’s most variation in terms of how much you can expect to pay for charging an electric car via public infrastructure. Assume that charging your car to 80% capacity will cost anywhere from £7 to £10.

Rapid chargers tend to be the most expensive, but also the most time efficient, as they’ll charge your EV quicker than alternatives. Pod Point report that 30 minutes of charging at one of their rapid charging points at Lidl will cost around £6-7 and give approximately 100 miles of range. It’s slightly more expensive on their rapid chargers at Tesco.

There are also public charging networks like BP Pulse, which has over 9,000 public charging spots UK-wide and works via an app or membership card, offering either pay-as-you-go or subscription-based payment. Ecotricity is a greener option that operates via an app-based membership service, but there are others like GeniePoint and Shell Recharge, too.

Can you charge an electric car for free?

If you’re savvy about it, then there are ways to charge your electric car for free. Some retail parks and car parks offer the chance to do so – but be aware that you may need to pay for parking or conform to other regulations.

Tesco has partnered with Volkswagen and Pod Point, providing free charging on its fast charge points – but be aware that rapid charge points still require payment.

You can also use the Pod Point app and Zap Map to check for UK chargers near you. Use the filter tool to look out for free charging points, or opt for paid ones according to your need.

Cost-effective finance for electric vehicles

If you have doubts about how affordable owning and using an electric car might be, My Car Credit’s team of specialists can advise. We’ll give you an EV car loan quote and help you to find ways of driving more sustainably that won’t break the bank.

Get in touch today on enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk and our helpful team will get back to you.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£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!

or call 01246 458 810

How to Reduce Your Car Running Costs

With cost-of-living prices rising, using your car regularly can seem like a financial burden. But there are key ways to reduce your car’s running costs – and we’ve consolidated eight of the best.

8 tips for reducing car running costs

Choose your fuel wisely

Avoid opting for premium fuel. Whilst premium fuels advertise benefits for a car’s performance, unless the vehicle actually is a performance vehicle, these are broadly negligible, but you’ll still end up paying more for the privilege.

Apps like the AA’s can help you to find the nearest cheap petrol stations, and you may benefit from supermarkets or fuel retailers’ loyalty cards, which can help you save money on fuel over time. Be sure to make use of technology and other savvy tricks like these in order to reduce car running costs.

Keep your car properly maintained

Getting your car serviced is an outgoing cost. But doing so will actually reduce overall car running costs, as you’re ensuring that the vehicle is kept at optimum efficiency.

It’s far better to send your car in for a regular service, which might set you back a relatively small amount, compared to having a major malfunction which incurs a significant expense.

Check tyre pressure

Keeping on top of your vehicle’s tyre pressure is one of the best ways to reduce the car’s running costs. Tyres that are underinflated will tend to use more fuel as a result of greater drag, which can leave you with higher costs over time.

Check your vehicle’s tyre pressure every fortnight. You can typically find the correct figures for your car on the inside of the driver’s door, but consult the handbook if you’re in doubt.

Drive carefully

There are many good driving habits that can help to reduce car running costs.

When the car is cold, drive gently, as this is when they’re less efficient. Accelerate gently too, and aim to drive at a steady speed. If you see red lights or a queue, ease off the accelerator. Keep your engine revs down – revving causes the engine to spin faster, which consumes more fuel.

You can also follow other good habits like keeping the windows up for minimal drag. Remove any excess weight in your vehicle’s boot, or any roof racks for the same reason. If you can go without aircon, then do so, as AC drains fuel. You can also avoid wearing heavy or thick shoes to drive, as these are less sensitive to small changes in the clutch and accelerator.

Learn what hypermiling is and practice it, as this will help you to maximise your vehicle’s MPG (miles per gallon).

Know your car finance caps

Certain kinds of car finance can have usage and mileage caps for vehicles. Be sure that you stick to these, otherwise you may end up overspending on surcharges.

Choose insurance wisely

Car insurance can be expensive. Shop around and haggle before settling on a policy or premium.

Consider getting a black box, which will reward careful drivers, or add a more experienced driver onto the policy to push costs down. You could also choose a car that typically resides in a lower insurance group in order to secure a cheaper premium. Remember that sophisticated trims (special equipment or features) add to a vehicle’s overall cost and will, therefore, impact any payout.

Be sensible about parking

Use apps to search around for cheaper parking, and always adhere to local guidelines so that you don’t incur a penalty.

Park your vehicle away from others, too. That way, you minimize any risk of damage, which might impact its resale value or result in expensive repair fees.

Ensure you’re on the best possible car finance deal

If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, then finding the best possible car finance is a sure-fire way to make the purchase more financially manageable. With car finance, you’ll pay a series of pre-agreed monthly instalments, making the process of owning and using a vehicle more accessible.

Take care to do your research and you should be able to make your monthly repayments more affordable.

Cut your costs with affordable car finance

There are many different types of car finance to suit your needs and requirements, and even ways of securing car finance with poor credit.

If you’re looking to drive down car running costs, be sure to contact My Car Credit today. We’ll provide you with a no-obligation quote and help you find an affordable deal.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

Will I Get Accepted for Car Finance?

I want to buy a car on finance, how much can I borrow?

How to Strengthen Your Eligibility for Car Finance

Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£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!

or call 01246 458 810

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Electric Car FAQs – Where to Charge?

Electric Car FAQs – Where to Charge? If you’re thinking about switching to an electric car, “where to charge” is one of the most common concerns. After all, you can’t drive an electric vehicle that’s not powered up.

Thankfully, infrastructure has improved vastly over the past decade. Nowadays, there’s a long list of options for choosing where to charge your electric car. Read on as we discuss each of them with their pros and cons.

Where to charge your electric car

At a fuel or service station

We’ll start with the most obvious – the place all drivers go for their petrol and diesel. Service stations and fuel stations offer the fastest way to charge an electric car. That’s because most of them are equipped with rapid or even ultra-rapid chargers providing 43+kW of power.

These chargers have DC connectors, meaning they convert power before feeding it into your car’s battery for faster charging. As a result, they can typically charge up to 80% within 30 minutes. That means you don’t have to wait around or hold up the queue when you’re “filling up”, so to speak.

One downside, compared to the options we’ll go on to discuss, is that this rapid-charging service comes at a premium. As well as the cost of electricity, you’ll be paying a little more for every kW of energy you use at a fuel or service station.

At home

Even with rapid or ultra-rapid charging, it’s not ideal having to go out and wait for 30 minutes every time you need to power up your car. Where better to charge an electric car than at your own home?

It’s no surprise that at-home charging is becoming more and more popular as people switch to electric. To be clear, we’re not talking about a standard 3-pin plug socket. While they can be used for emergencies, they only provide around 3kW of power. That means they can take anywhere between 15-40 hours to fully charge a car. Not to mention the issues with weather and trip hazards if you don’t have a suitably located and protected outdoor socket.

Instead, the majority of people who purchase an electric car will also look into getting their own home charger. These typically come with 3.6kW or 7kW ratings, which are referred to as slow and fast, respectively. With a 3.6kW charger, it can take between 10-20 hours to fully charge a car. That’s cut to 5-10 for its 7kW counterpart.

Charging at home with a dedicated charging unit is undoubtedly the most convenient option. Many people choose to charge overnight so their car is powered up and ready to go in the morning. That may also allow you to take advantage of cheaper off-peak energy prices, depending on your tariff. Either way, your home is the cheapest place to charge an electric car – excluding the odd free charging opportunity we’ll cover below.

In car parks

As electric cars become more and more popular, car parks are having to adapt to meet demand. From supermarkets, retail parks and shopping centres to gyms, cinemas and town centres, electric charging facilities are being installed as a way to modernise car parks and attract customers with electric cars.

Needless to say, this is just as convenient as home charging because you can charge while you shop, exercise, eat or even watch a film. In some cases, businesses or councils will even provide charging for free as a way to incentivise using the nearby facilities or attractions.

As an example, Tesco has rolled out free 7kW charging at some of its stores, with the option to pay for a faster service. That can give you up to 50 miles per hour while you shop. It’s worth noting that these car parks will have a maximum stay – usually 2-3 hours for Tesco – so you can’t rely on them for anything more than a top up.

At work

Private business car parks are another place where electric charging units are popping up. There are a variety of reasons behind this, including:

Convenient charging for their own electric fleet
Making chargers available to visitors and clients
Providing an additional perk for employees
Boosting a company’s green image

Since 2016, businesses have also been able to claim back some of the installation cost. With the Workplace Charging Scheme, they can claim up to £350 per unit for as many as 40 chargers. This has no doubt made them more appealing to businesses throughout the UK.

So, if you’re wondering where to charge an electric car, your own workplace could be the answer. Some companies will provide charging to employees for free as a perk, others will require payment.

Which is best for you?

With the four options above, there’s plenty of choice when you’re wondering about where to charge your electric car. In terms of which is best, it depends on your requirements, nearby facilities and how you use your vehicle.

In most cases, a home charger is a smart investment as it will always be available when you need it. If you have electric vehicle charging at work and mainly use your car for commuting, however, you may be able to get by without a home charger.

Thankfully, you don’t have to decide between the different options. It’s perfectly normal to have a home charger but use supermarkets, work chargers and even service stations for a top up whenever it’s needed while you’re out and about.

Upgrading to an electric car

“Where to charge” isn’t the only query from people who are looking to make the switch from petrol or diesel to electric. With electric cars relatively new on the scene, tackling the up-front cost is another area of interest. Thankfully, car finance can help you surmount that hurdle by spreading the cost over several manageable monthly payments.

At My Car Credit, we’re dedicated to helping drivers across the UK upgrade their ride – including those keen on green electric cars. Use our car finance checker to get a better idea of how much it will cost, then let us compare deals from a large network of trusted lenders to find you the best rate. You’ll have an estimated monthly cost quicker than you can say “ultra-rapid charging”!

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

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How Long Does It Take to Buy a Car?

Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£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!

or call 01246 458 810

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5 Fuel Saving Tips to Combat the Cost of Living

Man filing up his car with petrol to save on fuel

If you regularly use your vehicle and need it for work, then major increases in fuel prices can cause real problems for your monthly finances. However, there are ways of being economical with fuel in order to make your purchases go that little bit further.

Remember, when you’re shopping around for a car, look for one that’s fuel efficient. A car’s fuel efficiency is determined by its MPG (miles per gallon), and it’ll make a big difference to your regular fuel expenditure.

Fuel saving tips – the top 5

Go easy on your speed and accelerator

Sometimes you may just need to put your foot down (within the legal limits), but speed and use of the accelerator are two of the biggest factors that impact fuel consumption.

Go easy on the accelerator, and try to keep your driving smooth. If you’re in the highest gear possible, you’ll be using less fuel, but you need to ensure that you’re safely in control when doing so. Keeping revs down is also key, as revving causes an engine to spin faster, which guzzles fuel.

Practice good driving habits

If you’re approaching red lights, ease off the accelerator as you get closer to gently slow down. This is known as defensive or anticipatory driving and is a sure-fire way to save on fuel. It also typically means you’re more alert to your surroundings, making you a safer driver overall.

Vehicle maintenance

Keeping your vehicle well serviced will not only ensure that it’s safe to drive, it’s also one of the best fuel saving tips. Why? That’s because it guarantees the vehicle is working at optimum efficiency.

Monitor tyre pressure

Keeping on top of your tyre pressure makes a significant difference with fuel efficiency. The lower your tyre pressure, the more fuel the car will need as a result of resistance.

As such, it’s best practice to keep on top of your tyres between services – every fortnight or so is best.

You should be able to locate figures specifying your vehicle’s optimal tyre pressure on the inside of the driver’s door, but consult the handbook if this is tricky to find. Keeping on top of your tyre pressure can also help maintain your brakes, as tyres that are wrongly inflated will impact their wear and tear.

Maximise aerodynamics

This sounds a tad technical, but it boils down to minimising any drag or interference on your car. Roof bars and racks will result in higher fuel usage as a result of wind resistance – even if the rack’s empty.

Reducing the load carried by your car is also a top fuel saving tip. Clear out your car boot whilst you’re removing the roof rack, bicycle carriers, or any other bits and pieces.

Update to a new fuel-efficient car

If you’re concerned about your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and are looking to purchase an alternative, My Car Credit can help you to get car finance on a variety of cars from new or used dealerships – or check out our approved list of nearly-new vehicles to choose from.

Our easy-to-use car finance calculator will also ensure you find affordable financing options. Have more questions about buying a fuel-efficient car on finance? Get in touch with our friendly team on 01246 458 810 or enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

Bank Loan or PCP: Which is Right for You?

PCP: Is It Worth It?

Can You Get Cars on HP with No Deposit?

Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£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!

or call 01246 458 810

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Car on Finance Written Off – What Happens Next?

Damaged grey car on finance that has been written off

If your car on finance is written off as the result of an accident, there are a number of things that you can do depending on the degree of damage.

It’s of utmost importance to contact your insurance and finance provider, as well as the DVLA, if you are in an accident and think that your car may consequently be written off. Depending on the severity of damage sustained, there are two main steps that you can take, as this post will explore.

What is a write-off?

When a vehicle is written off by an insurance company, it usually means one of two things. Either the damage is so extensive that the vehicle can’t be repaired, or the cost of the repairs required is higher than the vehicle’s total value. As such, a vehicle can be written off even when the damage doesn’t appear that bad – it just has to fit into one of these two categories.

Your vehicle can be written off whether you acquired it via car finance, or if you’re the outright owner.

The different kinds of write-offs

There are four main kinds of write-offs – if your vehicle fits into any of these descriptions, it’s likely to be written off.

Category A

This occurs when a vehicle is completely unsuitable for repair, and no body parts can be used for scrap material. It’s the most severe kind of write-off.

Category B

This is when the vehicle has significant damage to its body, and is therefore not suitable for repair. Usable parts can still be salvaged and used for resale or repairs.

Category S

Previously known as category C, this occurs when vehicles sustain structural damage such that it is unsafe to drive without repair. Depending on the degree of damage, it may be more cost-effective to purchase a new vehicle.

Category N

Previously category D, this is when there is no structural damage and subsequent impact on the vehicle’s function, but some cosmetic, electrical, or non-structural repairs may still be required. Vehicles are placed into this category when an owner decides not to repair it.

What to do if your car on finance is written off

Remember, if your car is involved in an accident that might result in its being written off, you need to contact your finance and insurance providers as well as the DVLA. This should be done as soon as possible, so that you can take the necessary next steps.

Once your insurance provider has placed your vehicle into one of the four above categories, you’ll be offered a settlement price. This is the amount that your insurer is willing to pay out for the vehicle, and will usually equate to the amount that the vehicle was worth at the time of write-off.

You can dispute the write-off decided upon by your insurer by entering into negotiation with them, or by contacting the Financial Ombudsman Service.

Your options for a written-off financed car

Once your insurance provider has established the write-off category into which your financed car falls, you can decide on your next steps. These will usually be either buying the car back and repairing it, or buying new.

Remember, if your vehicle fits into either category A or B, you will not be able to buy the car back to repair it, as it has been deemed unroadworthy.

Buying a new car

You can use the insurance settlement to purchase a new vehicle. You will still need to repay your monthly instalments of car finance on the written off car. Depending on the insurance payout, you may be able to use this money to clear the outstanding balance on your finance agreement, but this will depend on your finance provider. It’s always best to contact them to gauge whether they allow this or not.

Buying back the vehicle and repairing it

This only applies to vehicles in category S and N. Remember that you’ll need to keep up with monthly repayments whilst the vehicle is in for repair, and check whether your repaired vehicle needs a new insurance policy, MOT, or to be re-registered with the DVLA.

Car finance that isn’t a write-off

At My Car Credit, we provide crisis-proof car finance and unflappable customer service. Should the worst happen, we have a team on hand to help you with any queries. Or if you’re looking to finance a car to replace a write-off, you can use our car finance calculator to get you a no-obligation quote within minutes.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

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What’s the Cheapest Way to Finance a Car?

Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£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!

or call 01246 458 810

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Can You Use Your Own Car for a Driving Test?

If you’re learning to drive, you might feel more comfortable taking your driving test in a car you feel familiar with. Whilst many drivers choose to use the instructor’s vehicle, you might be wondering, ‘can you use your own car for a driving test?’ In this article, My Car Credit will answer this question – and explain all the requirements and exceptions involved.

Can I use my own car for a driving test?

In most cases, there will be no issues with using your own car, but there are some requirements it will need to meet. To qualify, your car must:

Be taxed
Be roadworthy – and have an up-to-date MOT if it’s over 3 years old
Be insured for a driving test
Have no warning lights showing on your dashboard
Have tyres with no damage and the legal tread depth on all four tyres (This means you cannot have space-saver spare tyres)
Have 4 wheels and a maximum authorised mass of 3,500 kg or below
Have an mph speedometer
Be able to reach 62mph
Be smoke-free – so you shouldn’t smoke in the car just before or during the test

Required fittings

To use your own car for a driving test, you will need to add several fittings to the vehicle. These include:

An additional rear-view mirror for the examiner to use
L-plates displayed clearly on the front and back of the car
A passenger seatbelt and head restraint (not a slip-on type)

You can utilise a camera or dash cam for insurance purposes. However, these must face the outside and not film or record audio from inside the car.

Exceptions for using your own car

If you’re wondering ‘can you use your own car for a driving test?’ – the answer is usually ‘yes’. However, there are certain cars that you can’t take your test in, as these models will prevent your instructor from having all-round vision.

These vehicles include:

BMW Mini convertible
Ford KA convertible
Toyota iQ
VW Beetle convertible

There are other vehicles that may not be suitable, so you should always check with the DVSA first.

If your car model has been part of a recall, you will need to prove it is safe for use in the test. You can do this by providing evidence from the manufacturer or dealer that shows:

The car recall work was completed successfully
After a recall, it was found that no work was required
The specific car you’re using for the test was not recalled

Coronavirus safety measures

To prevent further spread of the coronavirus, you’ll need to clean the inside of your car before the test. This will include removing rubbish, along with cleaning and wiping down internal surfaces and seating. The examiner may also need to perform some additional cleaning.

At least one window should be open on either side of the car during the test.

Ready to get driving?

If you’re excited to get started with your first car, there are many things to consider, including how you’ll take your driving lessons and test.

Another factor to be aware of is your credit, which will have a big impact on whether your finance application is accepted and how much interest you’ll pay. Learn more about car finance eligibility with My Car Credit and make the first strides towards your dream car.

Rates from 9.9% APR. Representative APR 10.9%

Evolution Funding Ltd T/A My Car Credit

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Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£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!

or call 01246 458 810

driving test learner driver new drivers

Diesel vs. Petrol – Comparing Car Mileage

If you’re looking at buying a new car, there are a number of factors you’ll want to consider. One of the most fundamental is whether you should buy a petrol or a diesel car. In order to come to a decision, you’ll likely be considering the fuel economy of different engines – or, in other words, the mileage of a diesel car vs. that of a petrol car.

This article will look at the mileage of petrol vs diesel, and help you decide which type of engine you’d prefer for your next set of wheels.

Car mileage: diesel vs. petrol

First off, let’s clarify how fuel economy works. It refers to the number of miles a car can travel on a specific amount of fuel. This is measured in MPG, short for miles per gallon. The higher the MPG rating of a vehicle, the more fuel-efficient it is, as it can go further on one tank of fuel and cover more miles per gallon.

What impacts MPG?

There are several factors that will impact the MPG of a vehicle, as well as its actual engine mechanics.

Your own driving style will impact the MPG of a car. If you regularly tow heavy items, rapidly brake or accelerate, speed, frequently idle (for example, at traffic stops), or only travel short journeys, you can negatively impact the MPG. Similarly, if you wear your tyres out and don’t replace them, or don’t regularly maintain your car, this can negatively impact the MPG.

Environmental factors will also play a part. Regular use of the air conditioning, for example, will impact the MPG, but so will opening the windows (as this makes the car less aerodynamic). Cold weather also brings strain, as the engine takes longer to warm up.

One of the most significant factors affecting a car’s MPG is its engine, which is why you’ll frequently see articles comparing the mileage of a diesel car vs. a petrol car.

Diesel vs. petrol – which has better fuel economy?

Diesel cars have better fuel economy to petrol cars, making their mileage better value for money. This is because diesel fuel contains more energy in a like-for-like comparison than petrol fuel. That means that if you’re regularly making long journeys in a petrol vehicle, you’ll end up paying more overall for fuel, even though petrol is cheaper per litre than diesel fuel. It’s all about the law of averages.

Which? ran a series of independent tests, which found that the average MPG of a diesel car was higher around town, out of town, and on a motorway. As a combined score, the overall MPG of the diesel car they tested averaged 46.8 compared to 41.9 for the tested petrol car.

Overall, in the battle of mileage for a diesel vs. petrol vehicle, diesel’s fuel economy will always win out. Diesel cars are also better for longer journeys at high-speed – that is, for frequent motorway driving – and if you need a vehicle that can tow well. Diesel vehicles have more torque than petrol vehicles, which have to work harder to maintain momentum and power and will therefore use more fuel.

Other factors to consider

It may be that the verdict on diesel’s better mileage is enough to settle your choice as to whether to purchase a diesel vs. petrol car. However, deciding whether a diesel car is right for you is unfortunately not that black and white.

Petrol vehicles produce fewer overall emissions of CO2 per litre of burned fuel compared to a diesel engine – however, because a diesel engine’s mileage is higher than its petrol counterpart, it will tend to have lower CO2 emissions. That said, petrol cars produce far fewer particulate emissions than diesel vehicles – particularly older ones, which emit nitrogen oxide, a substance that’s linked to air pollution and harmful health side effects. Petrol cars therefore result in less local air pollution.

Diesel cars are also bad on short, stop-start trips, as their DPF (diesel particulate filter), which is responsible for minimising harmful particulates, won’t operate as efficiently unless the engine is hot.

Financing your petrol or diesel car

Whether you decide on diesel for better long-distance mileage or petrol for short, stop-start trips, car finance can help you spread the cost of your next car to improve affordability and maximise your budget.

At My Car Credit, we aim to make the finance application process as simple as possible from start to finish. Get the ball rolling by checking your car finance eligibility, then benefit from our extensive network of trusted lenders to get a fair deal whatever your credit score.

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X monthly repayments of
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Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£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!

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Is It Worth Buying a Warranty on a Used Car?

If you want peace of mind in case your vehicle suddenly needs expensive repairs, then a used car warranty may be for you. However, they’ll frequently see you shelling out more than you would for irregular repair jobs, and the terms and conditions of the policy can include significant exclusions. Read on as we explore is it worth buying a warranty on a used car.

What is a car warranty?

A car warranty is a kind of insurance that covers the cost of any parts or labour that may be required to fix particular mechanical or electrical faults with your car. Typically, when you purchase a new car, it’ll have a manufacturer’s warranty that lasts anywhere from three to seven years, depending on the car model.

Exactly what your warranty will cover depends on the provider, and there may be limits such as mileage that could invalidate your cover if unmet. Cars older than ten years old are typically more difficult to claim a warranty on.

Is it worth purchasing an extended car warranty on a used car?

If you’ve already got a used vehicle in mind, it’s worth checking the purchase documents. If it’s a relatively new model, the vehicle may still be within its manufacturer’s warranty – this will generally be around three years but can be anywhere up to seven (which is standard when it comes to all Kia models, making them excellent value for money). Otherwise, your dealership may offer you a used car warranty. These will usually promise financial peace of mind should your vehicle experience any mechanical or electrical failure.

However, research by Which found that many used car warranties will tend to have you spending more for the warranty than you would expect to pay on an average repair bill.

Many used car warranties also have significant exclusions for what you can expect to be covered by the warranty, so you’re essentially paying a significant premium for minimal cover.

You should take the time to carefully go through any terms and conditions of the warranty you agree to, and determine the exclusions written into the agreement. Similarly, if a deal seems too good to be true in terms of low cost, there’s probably a reason, and you may end up shelling out for even the most basic repairs as a result of innumerate policy exclusions.

Used car warranty: is it worth it?

The answer to this question really depends on whether or not you can afford the cost of any repairs as and when they arise.

It may be more strategic to budget a certain amount of money per month towards any repair fees, rather than paying out for a pricey warranty which may come with a high list of exclusions.

At the least, you should be shopping around and comparing as many quotes as possible for your warranty – don’t go jumping into the first deal offered – and ensure that you always read the fine print of any policy.

Financing your used car

If you’re buying a used car, warranties are just one of the considerations you’ll need to make. A much bigger one is how you plan to finance the purchase. My Car Credit can make it easy, providing a car loan quote from our extensive network of trusted lenders. Any questions? Contact us on enquiries@mycarcredit.co.uk.

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My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
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Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

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*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!

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Should I Buy a Car in London?

Whether you’re a weekend warrior looking for new ways to escape the city or a nine-to-fiver wanting to streamline your commute, “should I buy a car in London?” is a question asked by all kinds of people. If you live in the capital and are thinking about investing in a car, this article is for you. Read on as we cover all the practical and financial factors to consider when deciding whether you should buy a car in London.

The pros and cons of public transport

One of the biggest reasons people choose not to buy a car in London is the tube. The London Underground is one of the most iconic urban public transport networks in the world – and for good reason. Around two million passengers per day ‘mind the gap’ and often combine their journey with overland trains, buses, trams, riverboat services and sometimes even a set of wheels via London’s public bicycle hire scheme.

While public transport is incredibly efficient at getting people from A to B, it can be stressful with the average Londoner enduring a commute of 74 minutes. This gets many people thinking, should I buy a car in London?

While this can be a pretty straightforward question in other cities, the capital is unique and there are some special considerations you’ll need to factor in when asking if you should buy a car in London.

Parking in the capital

Whether you squeeze into a street space drawing on your best parallel parking skills, resign to the exorbitant prices of ticketed car parks or splurge on renting or buying a private parking space, there’s no denying parking in London is a headache. And an expensive headache at that. The average standard space costs more than £1,730 per square foot, on par with homes in upscale neighbourhoods like Chelsea and Kensington. This puts private parking well out of reach for the average London motorist.

Consider ‘park and ride’ options

Should I buy a car in London is a question asked by many people who live outside of London and commute into the city. It’s a great question, especially if your commute involves taking a bus from your house to the nearest train or Tubs station. Often, this step can add 30 minutes or more to a daily commute.

If you live near an official Transport for London car park, driving to a station and completing the final leg of your journey using public transport can be a great way to save on parking and petrol, not to mention reducing your eco-footprint. Season tickets offer great value for money and with car parks located across Greater London and beyond, chances are you’re within easy driving distance.

ULEZ charges

The capital has been struggling with air pollution since the Great Smog of London in the 1950s. The Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) has been introduced across the city to keep air pollution in check, with most vehicles hit with a £12.50 daily charge for travelling within the zone. This is definitely something to factor into your budget when researching the pros and cons of buying a car in London.

The EV revolution

When it comes to sidestepping the ULEZ charge in London and minimising your environmental footprint, electric vehicles (EVs) are the answer. Fully electric cars emit no CO2 or NOx from the tailpipe, making them 100% exempt from ULEZ charges. The average small petrol car churns out 120 g/km of CO2, meaning EVs are also a fantastic way to slash your personal emissions.

EV charge points in London

If you’re considering making the switch to an EV, it’s worth considering your driving habits and what charging infrastructure is available to you in London.

Hammersmith & Fulham is spearheading the movement, with Leader of the Council Stephen Cowan recently channelling more than £5 million into the installation of hundreds more lamppost chargers. By March 2023, the borough will offer more than 3000 EV charge points to London motorists.

“We’ve led Britain by installing these charge points as we encourage the shift to electric vehicles, cleaner air and a greener environment”, says Cowan. “If you buy a new car, please make it an electric one.”

Opt for a shorter range vehicle

Range is one of the biggest barriers to EV ownership, with many motorists worried their battery-powered car won’t be able to keep up with their driving habits. Thankfully, this isn’t usually an issue for London motorists using their car primarily for commuting. Low range EVs are more affordable than their high range counterparts, making them a great option for motorists on a budget. Models like the Smart EQ Fortwo and entry-level Fiat 500 Electric offer incredible value for money and more than enough range for you to zip around the city, then recharge when you’re back home.

Of course, if you plan to use your car to escape the city on weekend road trips and countryside adventures, it’s worth upgrading to an EV with higher range. The latest Mercedes EQS boasts an impressive range of 450+ miles, though it comes with a luxury price tag to match. The new Tesla Model S is also up there, with a range of around 400 miles. It can easily take you from London to popular holiday destinations like Cornwall.

Upgrade to a second-hand ZEC vehicle

In London, three types of vehicles meet ULEZ standards. They’re known as Zero Emission Capable (ZEC) vehicles and include the following:

100% electric vehicles with battery-powered motors.
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) that feature zero-emission technology backed with a standard petrol or diesel engine to boost range.
Hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) that use hydrogen to generate electricity and run the car.

Buying a car in London: The next step

If you’ve weighed up your options, crunched the numbers and decided you’re ready to get behind the wheel in London, we’re here to help. Whether you’re in the market for a second-hand EV or a brand-new ZEC vehicle, our team has the experience and expertise to track down the best tailored car finance solutions in the capital.

Our service is backed by Evolution Funding, the largest motor finance broker in the UK. This means your application will gain exposure to a broad panel of lenders, which ultimately translates to a better car loan quote.

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Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£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!

or call 01246 458 810

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Should I Buy a Car or a House First?

For most people, a car and home are two of the biggest personal assets purchased over a lifetime. Both are major financial commitments and of course, exciting milestones. So, should you buy a car or a house first? Like all investments, it’s important to do your research, crunch the numbers and compare different options before committing to a purchase.

If you’re tossing up between buying a new set of wheels or getting the keys to a home of your own, we’re here to help. Read on for an unbiased guide designed to help you answer the question, “should I buy a car or a house first?”

Your personal circumstances

Your personal circumstances are one of the most important things to consider when thinking about whether you should buy a car or a house first. The car vs house debate isn’t black and white, which means it’s important to factor in your unique situation when deciding.

For example, if you live in a major city like London with world-class public transport links and sky-high property prices, saving for a house deposit could be a smarter choice than putting your cash towards a new car. That said, many Londoners do choose to own a car and enjoy the benefits.

On the other hand, if you live in a smaller city, town or village where owning a car would have an enormous benefit on your day-to-day life and homeownership isn’t a huge challenge, purchasing a vehicle could be a better option.

Budgeting for extra expenses

Homes and cars are both exciting purchases. However, it’s important to pencil in extra expenses for both assets. Below, we’ve put together a list of some of the biggest expenses coming your way when purchasing a car or property. While they’re not exactly “hidden”, they can add up quickly and factoring them in should be an important part of your decision-making process.

The “hidden” costs of car ownership

Car insurance

Car insurance can be a big expense, especially for new and young drivers with minimal experience. It’s not unusual for average annual premiums for new drivers aged under 24 to top £1,000. Many motorists buying new cars choose to add GAP insurance, which offers extra peace of mind but increases the cost significantly.

Vehicle tax

Vehicle tax, or ‘road tax’ as it’s often referred to, is another big one. Costs average around £140 a year, though this can vary between vehicles.

Fuel

With analysts predicting forecourt prices to hit an all-time high over the coming months, fuel should definitely feature in your car ownership budget. Of course, your fuel expenses will depend on how often you use your car.

Parking

The cost of parking varies dramatically across the UK, with some cities offering free parking and others hitting you with huge fees. It’s worth doing your research before making a commitment.

Depreciation

Depreciation will vary depending on the make, model, and age of the car you purchase. New cars tend to lose around 20% of their value in the first year of ownership, while second-hand models depreciate at a slower and less sharp rate.

Servicing and maintenance

Depending on what car you buy, servicing and maintenance can be a big expense or a non-issue. Many new cars not only come with warranties but also free servicing for the first few years of ownership. In contrast, if you buy a second-hand vehicle, it’s worth factoring servicing and maintenance into your budget.

The “hidden” costs of homeownership

Insurance

Most homeowners choose to take out insurance, with the average policy costing £142 per quarter.

Property taxes

Property taxes can push up the price of home ownership, with rates calculated based on the value of the property.

General maintenance and upkeep

As a homeowner, it’s your responsibility to carry out general maintenance and upkeep on your property. Many financial advisors recommend allocating around 1-2% of the value of your mortgage to cover everything from big structural jobs to small cosmetic changes.

Interest rates on your mortgage

Interest rates can have a big impact on the total cost of your mortgage and naturally, it’s important to shop around for the best deal.

Boosting your credit score

For many Brits, a lacklustre credit score is one of the biggest barriers to homeownership. Banks can be ruthless when it comes to checking your financial history and even small hiccups like a missed credit card payment or late phone bill instalment can affect your score.

This is where buying a car first and a home second can be a smart option. If you’re wondering does car finance help credit score, the answer is often yes. Taking out a car loan and committing to regular monthly payments can be a great way to build your credit score and prove to banks that you’re a responsible mortgage applicant.

Most home loans are significantly larger than the average car loan, which means lenders are even more strict when it comes to vetting applicants. A credit agreement with a car finance lender can help position you as a responsible borrower, so long as you pay your instalments on time.

There’s no need to worry about whether applying for car finance will affect your credit score, with the best brokers preceding formal applications with a ‘soft search’ credit check. This is a great way to check your eligibility and assess your options before actually applying for a loan that will leave a permanent signature on your credit score.

The final word on car vs house

Ultimately, the answer to “should I buy a car or a house first” depends on your own personal circumstances. You’ll need to consider your current financial situation, as well as factors like your lifestyle and personal preferences. Exploring a variety of different factors will help you decide whether vehicle ownership makes sense for you and if it’s a smart financial decision.

If you’re leaning towards a car finance broker over a mortgage broker, My Car Credit is here to help. With a large panel of lenders at our fingertips, we’re best placed to find a great deal for all kinds of drivers. Start by calculating car finance and then apply online, with no obligation and without impacting your credit score.

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Loan amount

£

Repayment term

My credit rating

X monthly repayments of
^£X

Typical rate

Loan amount

Total payable

X% APR*

£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!

or call 01246 458 810

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