Motor Finance Claims Crawley - FCA Mis-Selling Investigation

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Motor Finance Claims Crawley - FCA Mis-Selling Investigation

Last updated: 27 February 2026

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Crawley residents may be surprised to learn that an estimated 11,189 drivers have been potentially impacted by motor finance mis-selling since April 6, 2007, according to figures calculated using ONS Census 2021 population data and FCA estimates. With a total population of 118,400 (ONS Census 2021), this issue has significant implications for the local community.

How motor finance mis-selling affected Crawley

Motor finance mis-selling in Crawley often involved dealerships such as Caffyns Crawley, Harwoods Crawley, Lookers Crawley, and Hendy Group Crawley. These dealerships sold personal contract purchase (PCP) and hire purchase (HP) agreements to customers, who were unaware of the potential risks and costs associated with these financing methods. Several major lenders operated in the area, including Black Horse (Lloyds Banking Group), MotoNovo Finance, Close Brothers Motor Finance, Santander Consumer Finance, Barclays Partner Finance, and [Alphera](https://mlj.org.uk/lenders/alphera-financial-services) Financial Services (BMW). These institutions played a significant role in providing finance options to Crawley residents purchasing vehicles from local dealerships.

The FCA motor finance investigation

In 2019, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) launched an investigation into discretionary commission arrangements within the motor finance industry. This inquiry revealed that 12.1 million eligible agreements (FCA, March 2026) by mis-selling practices (FCA estimate), with a total value of £7.5 billion (FCA estimate). FCA-estimated average overpayment per eligible agreement: £829. The investigation uncovered widespread issues related to how dealerships and lenders structured their commission arrangements, leading many customers to pay more than they should for their finance agreements.

How Crawley residents can check their finance agreements

Crawley residents who suspect that they may have been victims of motor finance mis-selling should carefully review their finance agreements. Focus on the dates: any agreement signed between April 6, 2007, and November 1, 2024, is potentially affected. Key documents to gather include:

The original finance agreement
Any correspondence with the lender or dealership
Documentation of payments made

By examining these documents, residents can identify whether they were overcharged due to mis-selling practices.

How to complain directly to your lender for free

Residents who believe they have been affected by motor finance mis-selling should first contact their lender directly. Major lenders operating in Crawley include Black Horse (Lloyds Banking Group), MotoNovo Finance, Close Brothers Motor Finance, Santander Consumer Finance, Barclays Partner Finance, and Alphera Financial Services (BMW). You can complain directly to your lender for free without needing the assistance of a claims management company. If your complaint is not resolved satisfactorily, you may escalate it to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) as another free option. This independent service provides impartial mediation between consumers and financial firms.

Sources and references

FCA estimates on affected agreements: 12.1 million eligible agreements (FCA, March 2026)
Total value of mis-sold agreements: £7.5 billion (FCA estimate)
FCA-estimated average per eligible agreement: £829
Population data for Crawley: ONS Census 2021
Dealership and lender information sourced from local business directories
Car Finance Compensation in Your Area

The FCA confirmed that 12.1 million motor finance agreements across the UK qualify for compensation. The FCA-estimated scheme average of £829 per eligible agreement per agreement, totalling £7.5 billion in redress. If you took out PCP or HP car finance between 6 April 2007 and 1 November 2024, your agreement may be eligible regardless of where you live in the UK.

The final deadline to complain is 31 August 2027. You can complain to your lender directly for free. You do not need a claims management company.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many drivers in Crawley may have been affected by motor finance mis-selling?

Based on calculated estimates using ONS Census 2021 population data and FCA estimates, around 11,189 drivers in Crawley might have been impacted by motor finance mis-selling.

What should I do if I suspect my car finance agreement was sold to me incorrectly in Crawley?

If you believe your motor finance agreement was mis-sold in Crawley, start by reviewing the terms of your contract and any documentation related to your purchase. You can also contact your lender directly for a free review of your case.

Are there specific dealerships in Crawley known for motor finance mis-selling?

While it is difficult to pinpoint specific dealerships in Crawley without detailed investigations, national data suggests that motor finance agreements have been mis-sold across many parts of the UK. It's important to review your agreement thoroughly and consult with an independent financial advisor if necessary.

How much can I potentially recover from a successful complaint about motor finance mis-selling in Crawley?

The average recovery amount for individuals who successfully resolve disputes over mis-sold motor finance agreements is £829 (FCA estimate). This figure varies based on individual circumstances.

Important: MLJ.org.uk is an independent information resource. We are not a claims management company, solicitor, law firm, or financial adviser. We do not process claims, take fees, or provide advice. Where the law gives you a right to complain or claim directly (to a lender, council, FOS, court, or regulator), you can do so without paying a third party. MLJ.org.uk is operated by Copious Ltd, registered in England and Wales, company number 11437826.