Your Complete Guide to Used Car Finance in Somerset, Dorset and Devon

Buying a used car doesn't have to mean spending a large lump sum from your savings. At Howards Motor Group, used car finance is available across all sites in Somerset, Dorset and Devon – with straightforward options, competitive rates, and a simple application process that can be completed online or in person. Whether you're looking for a monthly payment plan that suits your budget or want to understand what a representative APR actually means, this guide explains everything you need to know.

What Does Representative APR Mean?

APR stands for Annual Percentage Rate – it's the total annual cost of borrowing expressed as a percentage, including interest and any standard fees. The representative APR is the rate that Howards must be able to offer to at least 51% of customers who apply, so it gives you a fair basis for comparison.

Howards Motor Group's representative APR for used car finance is 10.9%. Your actual rate may differ depending on your credit history, deposit, and the term of the agreement – but the representative rate gives you a realistic starting point for calculating what your monthly payments might be.

How Much Can I Borrow for a Used Car?

The amount you can borrow depends on your personal financial circumstances, including your income, existing credit commitments, and credit history. As a general guide, most lenders look for your total monthly debt commitments (including the new car payment) to remain comfortably within your income. Whether you’re considering a used Vauxhall, Honda or Suzuki, a Howards finance specialist at any of the Somerset, Dorset or Devon dealerships can help you work through the numbers and find a monthly payment that works for your budget.

Can I Apply for Finance Online?

Yes. Howards Motor Group offers an online finance application process so you can get an indication of what you might be offered before visiting a Howards dealership. You can browse the used car stock, select a vehicle, and start a finance application at howardsgroup.co.uk – completing the process from home if you prefer. The team will be in touch to discuss your application and arrange the next steps.

Why Finance Through Howards Rather Than My Bank?

Personal loans from banks and credit unions are a perfectly valid way to fund a car purchase – and for some buyers they offer the simplest route. However, dealer finance offered through Howards Motor Group has its own advantages: the rate can be competitive, the process is integrated with the vehicle purchase (so everything is handled in one place), and the finance is matched to the specific car you're buying.

With PCP in particular, the Guaranteed Future Value protects you from the risk of the car depreciating more than expected – something a bank loan can't offer. And with Howards' 50-year heritage and highest Reputation scores in the South West automotive sector, you can be confident that the finance process is as transparent and customer-focused as the vehicle purchase itself.