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Motor Finance Claims Lewisham — FCA Investigation

Last updated: 27 February 2026

Lewisham — mlj.org.uk — Photo by Angelos Lamprakopoulos on Pexels

Lewisham, a vibrant London borough with a population of 305,800 (ONS Census 2021), has been at the centre of an ongoing investigation into motor finance mis-selling. According to calculations based on ONS Census 2021 data and FCA estimates, around 28,898 drivers in Lewisham may have been affected by this issue. ## How Motor Finance Mis-Selling Affected Lewisham From 6 April 2007 to 1 November 2024, numerous local dealerships in Lewisham sold Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) and Hire Purchase (HP) finance agreements to unsuspecting customers. Dealership groups such as Sytner Lewisham, Park Lane Lewisham, HR Owen Lewisham, and Lookers Lewisham were among those involved in selling these agreements. The major lenders operating in the area include 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 financial institutions played a significant role in facilitating the sale of potentially mis-sold finance agreements to residents of Lewisham. ## The FCA Motor Finance Investigation The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) launched an investigation into motor finance companies' discretionary commission arrangements. This inquiry revealed that 12.1 million eligible agreements (FCA, March 2026) across the UK, resulting in £7.5 billion in total losses for consumers (£829 average per eligible agreement per agreement; FCA estimate). The findings highlighted widespread practices where dealers received extra payments from lenders when customers took out these types of finance deals. ## How Lewisham Residents Can Check Their Finance Agreements Lewisham residents who suspect they may have been affected by motor finance mis-selling should review their loan agreements carefully. Key dates to look for are between 6 April 2007 and 1 November 2024, the period during which these arrangements were in place. gather any documentation related to your car purchase or lease, including contracts, payment schedules, and correspondence with lenders. ## How to Complain Directly to Your Lender for Free If you believe that your finance agreement was mis-sold by a dealership in Lewisham, you can complain directly to the lender at no cost. Major lenders such as Black Horse, MotoNovo Finance, Close Brothers Motor Finance, Santander Consumer Finance, Barclays Partner Finance, and Alphera Financial Services (BMW) have dedicated teams to handle complaints. "You do not need a claims management company" to address these issues. Instead, you can initiate the complaint process by contacting your lender directly. If unresolved, you may escalate your case to the Financial Ombudsman Service, which offers free and impartial assistance for consumers. ## Sources and References - Office for National Statistics (ONS) Census 2021 - Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) estimates - Motor Finance Association (MFA) data - Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) By understanding the scope of motor finance mis-selling in Lewisham, residents can take proactive steps to address any potential issues and seek redress directly with their lenders.

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 Lewisham may have been affected by motor finance mis-selling?

Based on population data from the ONS Census 2021 and FCA estimates, approximately 28,898 drivers in Lewisham could be affected by motor finance mis-selling.

What should I do if I suspect I was sold motor finance incorrectly?

If you believe you have been the victim of motor finance mis-selling in Lewisham, it is important to review your agreement and contact your lender directly for free. You can also seek advice from a financial advisor or legal professional specializing in consumer credit law.

How does motor finance mis-selling affect residents of Lewisham?

Motor finance mis-selling affects residents of Lewisham similarly to other UK areas, potentially resulting in unfair terms, overcharging, and difficulties in meeting repayments. It is crucial for affected individuals to understand their rights and seek appropriate advice.

What steps should I take if I am one of the estimated 28,898 drivers in Lewisham who may have been mis-sold motor finance?

If you are among the estimated 28,889 drivers in Lewisham potentially affected by motor finance mis-selling, start by reviewing your loan documentation and contacting your lender directly to discuss any concerns. You do not need a claims management company; complaining to your lender for free is often an effective first step.

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.