How Long Does Car Finance Approval Take?

Need a car fast? Find out how long car finance approval takes and how carloans365 can help you get on the road quicker.

Published on September 16, 2025
how long does car finance take

When you’ve found the perfect car, the last thing you want is to wait weeks for approval. So how long does it actually take to get car finance? The truth is, it depends on a few factors — but with carloans365, the process is designed to be quick, simple, and stress-free.

Typical approval timeframes
In many cases, you can receive a decision within 24 to 48 hours of applying. Some customers are even approved on the same day. However, complex applications or missing information can slow things down.

What affects approval speed?

  • Credit history: Stronger credit profiles may get instant approvals.
  • Affordability checks: Lenders assess your income and outgoings.
  • Documentation: Missing or incorrect documents can delay approval.

How to speed up your application
To ensure things move smoothly:

Have your ID, proof of address, and payslips ready.

Double-check all information before submitting.

Work with a trusted broker like carloans365, who can liaise directly with lenders on your behalf.

What happens after approval?
Once approved, your lender will issue the finance agreement for you to sign. After that, funds are released to the dealer, and you can collect your car — often within just a few days.

Final thoughts
Getting car finance doesn’t have to be a long process. With the right preparation and the support of carloans365, you can go from application to approval in no time.

How much can you afford to
spend on a car?

How much can you afford to spend on a car?

Amount to borrow*
£7,000
£4,000£30,000
To pay over
4 Years
Assuming my credit rating is
Purple monster character mobile
Best Available Rate
13.9%
Initial Borrowing
£7,000.00
Total Cost of Credit
£997.76
Total Amount Repayable
£7997.76
48 monthly payment of
£166.62

REP APR: 21.4% We act as a broker, not a lender.

Representative Example:

Borrowing £7,500 at a representative APR of 21.4%, annual interest rate (fixed) 21.36%, 47 monthly payments of £196.75 followed by 1 payment of £206.75, total cost of credit is £4,315, total amount payable is £11,815.

carloans 365 is a trading name of HT Finance Ltd. Company Number 11481948 registered address: carloans 365, Floor 2, Jackson House, Sibson Street, Sale, M33 7RR. HT Finance Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, under reference No. 821383 All finance is subject to status, terms and conditions apply. We work with a specific panel of lenders to try to obtain you an approval. We receive a commission for introducing you to parties with whom we work with. This commission is a fixed payment or percentage but can vary by partner. This does not impact the rate you are provided, full information on request. We do not charge a fee for our services.

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