The Knaus Van TI was commonly sold on Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) and Hire Purchase (HP) finance agreements during the FCA investigation period from 6 April 2007 to 1 November 2024. This motorhome, known for its spacious living quarters and versatility, often came with substantial price tags ranging from £40,000 to £80,000. Given these high costs, it is crucial for owners to understand the potential issues surrounding their finance agreements.
How the Knaus Van TI was Typically Financed
The Knaus Van TI motorhome was frequently financed through PCP and HP agreements with a variety of lenders such as
Black Horse,
Close Brothers Motor Finance,
Lombard, and Billing Finance. These loans were typically structured over terms ranging from 48 to 120 months, reflecting the high cost of the vehicle. For many buyers, balloon payments at the end of the agreement were a significant feature, often requiring large lump sums that could be financially burdensome.
The FCA Motor Finance Investigation
The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) launched an investigation into
discretionary commission arrangements used by finance brokers and lenders in the motor industry. This investigation uncovered widespread mis-selling practices affecting millions of consumers. According to the FCA’s estimates, 12.1 million eligible agreements (FCA, March 2026) impacted, with a total value of £7.5 billion (FCA, March 2026), resulting in an average overpayment of £829 per agreement (FCA estimate). The Knaus Van TI owners who financed their vehicles during this period are likely among those affected.
How to Check Your Agreement Look for any mention of a "discretionary commission" or "DCA," which stands for Discretionary Contribution Arrangement. These terms indicate that your broker received additional payments from the lender based on your choice to secure finance through them. ensure that your agreement was entered into between 6 April 2007 and 1 November 2024.
If you suspect that your Knaus Van TI finance agreement was mis-sold, it is essential to address this directly with your lender. Common lenders such as Black Horse, Close Brothers Motor Finance, Lombard, and Billing Finance all have processes in place to handle complaints related to the FCA investigation. You do not need a
claims management company; you can file a complaint yourself for free. Lenders are required by law to review these complaints thoroughly and provide a fair resolution.
Towed caravans are NOT covered by the FCA motor finance scheme. Only self-propelled motorhomes with their own engine and drivetrain, such as the Knaus Van TI, are in scope for the FCA investigation.
Sources and References
- Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) estimates on mis-selling figures: 12.1 million eligible agreements (FCA, March 2026) (£7.5 billion (FCA, March 2026) total, £829 average per eligible agreement overpayment)
- Close Brothers Motor Finance, Lombard, Black Horse, Billing Finance customer service guidelines and complaint procedures
- FOS guidance on handling complaints related to motor finance mis-selling