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What Help Is Available If You're Struggling With Car Finance?

Written by Jamie Burgoyne | Jun 13, 2025 2:57:10 PM

Life doesn’t always go to plan, and if you’re finding it hard to keep up with your car finance payments, you’re not alone. Whether it's due to rising living costs, a change in circumstances, or simply finding your current deal too much to manage, there is help available, and you don’t have to face it alone.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through your options, explain what support Marsh Finance can offer, and point you toward trusted organisations that can help if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

👉 First things first: don't wait to get help
👉 What are my options if I can't afford my car finance payments?
👉 What if I'm classed as a vulnerable customer?
👉 What happens if I miss a payment?
👉 Independent help and support
👉 A few more tips if you're struggling
👉 You're not alone: let's talk
👉 FAQs

First Things First: Don’t Wait To Get Help

When it comes to money worries, one of the hardest steps can be asking for help, but the sooner you speak up, the more options you’ll have.

If you’re a Marsh Finance customer and you’re struggling, please reach out to us. We’ve helped thousands of people in similar situations and will work with you to find a solution that fits.

👉 Contact our support team confidentially »

What Are My Options If I Can’t Afford My Car Finance Payments?

Depending on your circumstances and the type of agreement you have, you could explore:

  1. Refinancing Your Car Finance

If your current car or deal no longer suits your needs, refinancing might be an option. At Marsh, refinancing means trading in your current vehicle and starting again with a new agreement on a different, more affordable car.

✅ Suitable if you want lower payments or a more manageable car
⚠️ Be aware: refinancing may affect your credit and increase the total amount paid over time.

  1. Voluntary Termination (VT)

If you’ve paid at least 50% of your total finance agreement and the car is in good condition, you may be able to return it and walk away with nothing more to pay.

✅ A legal right under the Consumer Credit Act
⚠️ You must have a PCP or HP agreement and be up to date with payments.

👉 Read: Voluntary Termination vs Voluntary Surrender, What’s the Difference?

  1. Voluntary Surrender (VS)

If you haven’t yet paid 50% of the agreement but can no longer afford to keep the car, you can return it under VS. You’ll still owe the remaining balance (minus the resale value), but it might help you avoid further missed payments and credit damage.

⚠️ You may still be liable for a shortfall
💡 Useful if you need to exit the agreement and can’t meet the VT criteria

What If I’m Classed As A Vulnerable Customer?

If you’re going through something tough, like illness, bereavement, job loss, or a significant life event, you may be classed as a vulnerable customer. This means you may be entitled to extra support, including:

  • Breathing space or reduced payment plans
  • Priority handling with empathy and care
  • Flexible communication, depending on your needs

At Marsh Finance, we always treat you like a human being, not a number.

👉 Explore: What Counts as a Vulnerable Customer, and What Support is Available?

What Happens If I Miss A Payment?

Missing payments can feel scary, but here’s what to expect and what you can do about it.

  • You may be charged a late fee (check your agreement).
  • Your missed payment may be reported to credit agencies.
  • If the issue isn’t resolved, your lender may issue a default notice or start repossession proceedings.

That’s why it’s so important to talk to your lender early. At Marsh Finance, our team is here to listen, not judge. We’ll help you explore options like payment plans, VT, or refinancing before things escalate.

👉 Speak to us today, we’re here to help »

Independent Help And Support

It’s okay to need support beyond your lender. These trusted organisations can help you manage debt, protect your mental health, and rebuild your financial confidence:

Debt Help:

Mental Health & Wellbeing:

💡 A Few More Tips If You’re Struggling

You're Not Alone, Let’s Talk

If you’re struggling, there is support available, and we’re here for you.

At Marsh Finance, we understand that life happens. Whether you need a more affordable car, a payment break, or just someone to explain your options, we’re ready to help, with no pressure or judgment.

👉 Get in touch with our support team now »