About First Response Finance
First Response Finance is a specialist UK lender focused on non-prime and adverse credit vehicle finance. With over 25 years of experience lending to applicants who have been declined by mainstream lenders, First Response brings flexible, common-sense underwriting to bear on complex credit histories. Their rates are higher than prime lenders - reflecting the additional risk undertaken - but for applicants rebuilding their credit or who have CCJs, defaults or previous financial difficulties, First Response can provide finance where no one else will. They are FCA regulated and treat customers fairly.
Indicative Rates - October 2026
| Term | Hire Purchase (HP) 10.9% APR | Finance Lease 10.6% APR | Operating Lease 10.4% APR |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24 months | £6,984/mo | £6,963/mo | £6,949/mo |
| 36 months | £4,904/mo | £4,882/mo | £4,868/mo |
| 48 months | £3,870/mo | £3,848/mo | £3,833/mo |
| 60 months | £3,254/mo | £3,232/mo | £3,217/mo |
Example monthly payments on a £150,000 asset, no deposit. Indicative only - actual payments depend on deposit, status and lender criteria.
First Response Finance: Lender Profile
First Response Finance was founded in 1997 and has grown to become the UK's leading non-prime motor finance lender. They have a strong track record of responsible lending to applicants with adverse credit histories, helping them access vehicle finance at fair (if higher) rates while rebuilding their credit profile over time.
Key Stats
- Minimum loan: £2,500
- Maximum loan: £30,000
- Typical LTV: Up to 90%
- Typical term: 12–60 months
- Regulated by: FCA
- Parent group: Independent
Eligibility Overview
Applicants with adverse credit histories: CCJs, defaults, IVAs, previous bankruptcy (subject to discharge). Employed, self-employed and benefit income considered. Minimum age 18. UK-registered vehicles only. Note: maximum loan of £30,000 limits to used mainstream vehicles.
Pros
- Specialist in adverse and non-prime credit
- Considers CCJs, defaults, IVAs and previous bankruptcy
- Responsible lender - FCA regulated, treats customers fairly
- Can help rebuild credit profile over the loan term
- Higher LTV than prime lenders (up to 90%)
Cons / Considerations
- Highest APR on the DBF panel at 10.9%
- Maximum loan of £30,000 - not suitable for prestige supercars
- Limited to mainstream used vehicles rather than prestige
- Not suitable for applicants with clean credit seeking best rates
Worked Example: £150,000 Ferrari 488
Worked Example: Ferrari 488 via First Response Finance
| Vehicle | Ferrari 488 (2023 plate) |
|---|---|
| Total asset value | £150,000 |
| Deposit (20%) | £30,000 |
| Amount financed | £120,000 |
| Product | Hire Purchase (HP) |
| APR (indicative) | 10.9% |
| Term | 48 months |
| Monthly payment (indicative) | £3,096 |
| Total amount payable | £178,591 |
All figures are indicative and subject to status, underwriting and lender criteria. A formal illustration will be provided before any agreement is signed.