Hire Purchase (HP) Car Finance
Fund Your Next New or Used Car From Eastbourne Motoring Centre
The Straightforward Path to Car Ownership
Hire Purchase (HP) remains one of the most popular and trusted ways to buy a car in the UK. At Eastbourne Motoring Centre, we've helped countless customers achieve their goal of car ownership through our competitive HP finance deals. Simple, transparent, and with no surprises at the end - just complete ownership of your vehicle.
How Does HP Car Finance Work?
Hire Purchase is straightforward and simple: you pay a deposit, make fixed monthly payments, and at the end of the agreement, the car is yours. So, there are no complicated decisions, no balloon payments to worry about, or no mileage restrictions - just a clear road to ownership.
The HP Process - What to Expect:Â
1. Choose Your Car
Browse our extensive range of new and quality used vehicles here at EMC, or speak with us about how we can source the car you want.
2. Agree Finance Terms
- Set your deposit amount (typically 10% or more)
- Choose your contract length (usually 12 to 60 months)
- Lock in your fixed monthly payment
- Include the optional purchase fee
3. Make Your Monthly Payments
Benefit from fixed payments that never change, covering the full value of the car plus interest.
4. Own Your Car
After your final payment, you become the legal owner with a full V5C registration document.
The Benefits of HP Car Finance
- Guaranteed Ownership - The car becomes yours after the final payment
- No Mileage Restrictions - Drive without limits or excess charges
- Fixed Monthly Payments - Predictable budgeting throughout your agreement
- Modify When You Want - Make changes to your car once you own it
- Build Equity - Every payment increases your ownership stake
- Sell Anytime - Settle early and sell your car if needed
- No End-of-Term Decisions - Straightforward ownership, no complicated choices
Is HP Right for You?
Hire Purchase works best if you:
- Want to own your car outright
- Prefer straightforward, predictable payments
- Don't want mileage restrictions
- Plan to keep the car long-term
- Want the option to modify or customise your vehicle
- Prefer simple agreements without balloon payments
Get Your HP Quote Today
Are you ready to take the straightforward route to car ownership? Our Eastbourne and Uckfield branches are here to help!Â
The quickest way to get in touch with us is by clicking on the live chat button at the bottom of your screen. Alternatively, you can fill out the finance enquiry form at the foot of this page, or simply give us a call.Â
Our experienced EMC team is here Monday to Saturday* to help you find the ideal car finance solution. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade to a new vehicle, we'll guide you through every step of the Hire Purchase process.
*We’re also open on Sundays by appointment only - get in touch to find out more.Â
EMC Group is proud to serve customers across East and West Sussex, and beyond - including Eastbourne, Uckfield, Hailsham, Lewes, Brighton, Hove, Seaford, and Hastings.
FAQs
- How much deposit do I need for HP finance?
Most Hire Purchase agreements require a minimum deposit of around 10% of the car's value, though you can put down more to reduce your monthly payments. A larger deposit also demonstrates commitment to lenders and may help secure better rates. Some customers put down 20% to 30% to significantly reduce their monthly outgoings. We'll help you find the right balance for your budget.
- Can I settle my HP agreement early?
Yes, you can settle your Hire Purchase agreement early at any time. The finance company will provide a settlement figure that covers all remaining payments, though there may be early settlement adjustments.
Once you've paid two-thirds of the total amount payable, you also have the right to voluntary termination under the Consumer Credit Act, where you can end the agreement and return the car. Terms and conditions apply, so always check your car finance contract first to find out if you’re eligible.Â
- What happens if I can't make my HP payments?
If you're struggling with payments, contact us immediately. We can often help by discussing options with your finance provider, such as payment holidays, reduced payments, or refinancing. Ignoring the problem can lead to repossession of your vehicle, so it's crucial to communicate any payment problems early.
- When do I actually own the car with HP?
You become the legal owner of the vehicle after making your final monthly payment and paying the option to purchase fee (usually around £100). At this point, the finance company will send you the V5C registration document showing you as the registered keeper and owner. Until then, the finance company technically owns the car, though you have full use of it.
- Can I modify my car during the HP agreement?
While you don't legally own the car until the final payment, most finance companies allow reasonable modifications during a Hire Purchase agreement that don't reduce the vehicle's value. However, it's always best to check with the finance provider first. Avoid any modifications that could void the warranty or make the car harder to sell. Once you own the car outright, you can modify it however you wish.
- What credit score do I need for HP car finance?
HP finance is available to customers with various credit scores. While a good credit history helps secure better rates, we work with lenders who specialise in different credit situations. Even if you've had credit issues in the past, we may still be able to help.
The key factors are stable income, affordability, and the ability to maintain payments. Contact us to discuss your specific circumstances.
- Is HP finance regulated?
Yes, Hire Purchase car finance is fully regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). This means you have important consumer protections, including the right to voluntary termination after paying two-thirds of the total amount, a 14-day cooling-off period, and strict affordability assessments. All our finance partners are FCA regulated, ensuring you receive fair treatment throughout your agreement.
- Can I use HP finance for used cars?
Absolutely! Hire Purchase finance is available for both new and used vehicles. In fact, it's particularly popular for used car purchases as the monthly payments are often more manageable than with new cars.
All our used vehicles undergo thorough inspections and come with warranties, giving you confidence in your purchase. Bear in mind that the age and mileage of the car may affect the maximum term available to you.
- What insurance do I need with HP Finance?
You must maintain fully comprehensive motor insurance throughout your Hire Purchase agreement, as the finance company has a financial interest in the vehicle. The insurance must cover the outstanding finance amount, and the finance company should be noted as an interested party.Â