How to Apply for Used Car Finance Online with Stebbings
Applying for car finance online has never been easier, especially when buying a quality used vehicle from a trusted dealership like Stebbings. With quick online applications, fast decisions, and no pushy sales tactics, you can secure the right finance deal from the comfort of your own home.
Whether you are a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade your current vehicle, this guide explains how the online used car finance process works with Stebbings and how to increase your chances of getting approved.
1. Why Apply for Car Finance Online?
More and more buyers are choosing to apply for used vehicle finance online. It saves time, offers greater transparency, and lets you compare different options without visiting a showroom. At Stebbings, our online application process is designed to be as simple and stress-free as possible.
Benefits include:
- Instant access to finance options
- No obligation to proceed
- Soft credit checks that do not affect your score
- Fast pre-approval decisions
- Full support from our in-house team
By applying online, you take control of your car-buying journey and can focus on finding the right vehicle at the right monthly price.
2. What You Need Before You Start
Before applying for used car finance online, it helps to gather a few details. These include:
- Personal information: Name, date of birth, address history (last 3 years)
- Employment status and income
- Driving licence details
- Bank account information for direct debit setup
- Preferred deposit amount (if any)
- Monthly budget
Having this information ready will make the process quicker and smoother. If you are not sure what you can afford, our team can help you calculate a realistic monthly budget.
3. Understanding Your Finance Options
Before submitting an application, it is worth understanding the types of car finance available. At Stebbings, we offer several flexible options tailored to your circumstances:
Hire Purchase (HP): Spread the cost over fixed monthly payments. You own the car once the final payment is made.
Personal Contract Purchase (PCP): Lower monthly payments with the option to return, upgrade or buy at the end via a balloon payment.
Bad Credit Car Finance: Designed for customers with poor or limited credit history.
Zero Deposit Finance: Get approved without needing to put money down upfront.
When applying, you can choose the finance type that suits your needs or speak to us for guidance.
4. Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Used Car Finance Online
At Stebbings, we make the process simple. Here is how it works:
Step 1: Find Your Vehicle
Browse our current stock of used cars online. Each listing includes full specifications, finance examples, and estimated monthly payments.
Step 2: Click “Apply for Finance”
Once you have found a car you like, click the “Apply for Finance” button on the vehicle page. This takes you to our secure application form.
Step 3: Complete the Finance Application Form
Fill in your personal, employment, and financial details. This information helps us match you with suitable lenders.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Click submit. Your details will be assessed by our panel of trusted lenders. We use a soft credit search during the pre-approval stage, which does not affect your credit score.
Step 5: Get a Decision
In most cases, you will receive a decision the same day. If approved, we will contact you to finalise the agreement and discuss next steps.
Step 6: Sign Your Agreement and Collect Your Car
Once you are happy with the terms, you will sign the finance documents digitally. Then you can either collect your vehicle or arrange for delivery, depending on availability.
5. What If You’re Not Sure Which Finance Option to Choose?
If you are unsure about the best finance route, we are here to help. Our friendly, non-commission sales team will explain:
We will never pressure you into a decision. Our goal is to make sure you are confident and comfortable with your chosen finance plan.
6. Can You Apply for Finance Without Choosing a Car First?
Yes. If you want to check your eligibility before choosing a specific vehicle, we offer a quick finance checker tool. This allows you to:
- Apply for finance in principle
- Understand what you can borrow
- Get a better idea of your monthly budget
This is ideal if you are browsing or still comparing models, but want a clear idea of what is affordable.
7. What If You’ve Been Refused Finance Before?
Being refused car finance is more common than you might think, especially if you have a low credit score, limited credit history, or inconsistent income. At Stebbings, we work with a range of lenders who specialise in bad credit car finance.
To improve your chances of approval:
- Make sure your credit file is accurate and up to date
- Register to vote at your current address
- Pay off existing debts where possible
- Avoid multiple credit applications in a short time
We treat every application individually and aim to find a solution that works for you.
8. How Long Does It Take to Get Approved?
Most online car finance applications are processed within a few hours. In some cases, we can offer instant pre-approval. More complex applications may take a little longer, but you will always be kept informed at every stage.
Once approved, your chosen car can be reserved while the paperwork is finalised. In many cases, you could be driving away within 24–48 hours.
9. Why Choose Stebbings for Used Car Finance?
Stebbings has been a trusted name in used cars for over 40 years. When you apply for finance with us, you benefit from:
- A wide range of used vehicles in stock
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- A dedicated finance team to guide you through the process
- Flexible finance plans to suit all budgets
- Fast online applications with minimal paperwork
We believe in clear, honest advice and exceptional service from start to finish.
10. Ready to Apply? Start Your Journey Today
Getting behind the wheel of your next car is just a few clicks away. Whether you are buying your first vehicle or upgrading your family car, Stebbings makes used car finance fast, fair, and easy.
Use our online application form to get started today, or contact our finance team for personalised advice. We are here to help you find the right car with the right finance — no pressure, just great service.
