Personal Contract Purchase, widely known as PCP, is a highly popular and flexible car finance option that is characterised by having lower monthly payments compared to a Hire Purchase agreement on the same car.
The structure is straightforward. You pay an initial deposit and then make fixed monthly payments over the agreed loan term, which typically lasts between 2 and 4 years. These payments cover the depreciation of the vehicle’s value over that period, rather than the full price of the car itself.
At the conclusion of the contract, PCP offers you three clear and flexible choices:
- Keep the Vehicle: If you love your car, you can pay a final, pre agreed optional final payment, often called a balloon payment, to take full ownership.
- Trade it In: You can part exchange the vehicle for a new model, using any equity built up as the deposit for your next finance package.
- Return the Vehicle: You can simply hand the car back to us, with nothing further to pay, providing it meets the pre agreed mileage restrictions and fair wear and tear conditions.
PCP finance is an excellent choice for drivers who prefer lower monthly outlays, desire shorter contract terms, and appreciate the flexibility to upgrade their vehicle regularly.