Personal Contract Hire

Explore the greater flexibility offered by Personal Contract Hire with your new car.

What is Personal Contract Hire (PCH)?

Personal contract hire (PCH), sometimes referred to as private contract
hire, is a long-term car leasing agreement. Instead of buying the vehicle, you
pay a fixed monthly fee to use it for an agreed period, typically between two
and four years.

With a personal hire contract, you:

  • Pay an initial rental (upfront payment)
  • Make fixed monthly rentals throughout the agreement
  • Return the car at the end of the contract

Unlike other finance options, you never own the car. This makes it a
straightforward and predictable way to drive a new vehicle without worrying about depreciation or resale value.

total car cost breakdown

How Personal Contract Hire works

A PCH finance agreement is simple and transparent, making it a popular choice for drivers across the UK.

Here’s how it works:

1. Initial Payment

Usually equivalent to 3–12 months’ payments.


2. Monthly Rentals

Fixed payments for the duration of your personal hire contract.


3. Mileage Agreement

You choose an annual mileage limit that suits your driving habits. 


4. End of Contract

Simply return the vehicle with no further obligation (subject to fair wear and tear). 


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Benefits of Personal Contract Hire (PCH)

Choosing from our range of personal contract hire cars comes with
several advantages:

  • No ownership worries – No need to sell the car at the end. 
  • Fixed monthly costs – Easy budgeting with no unexpected surprises. 
  • Access to new models – Drive the latest PCH cars with modern features and technology. 
  • Lower upfront costs – Compared to purchasing a car outright. 
  • Flexible options – Wide range of personal contract hire offers to suit
    different budgets. 

For many drivers, personal contract hire is one of the most convenient
ways to stay on the road in a reliable and modern vehicle.

Finding the Best Personal Contract Hire Deals

To get the most value from your personal contract hire deal, it’s important to compare options and choose the right agreement for your needs.

Here are a few tips:

  • Look for competitive personal contract hire offers with low initial rentals. 
  • Choose a mileage limit that reflects your actual driving habits.
  • Compare different PCH car finance options across a range of vehicles.
  • Consider maintenance packages for added peace of mind. 

We offer a wide selection of PCH cars and tailored contract hire packages to help you find the perfect fit.

Personal Contract Hire vs Other Finance Options

While PCH finance is ideal for those who don’t want to own a car, it differs from other options like PCP or hire purchase:  

  • Personal contract hire: You rent the car and return it at the end. 
  • PCP or hire purchase: You have the option to own the vehicle. 

If your priority is convenience, low commitment, and driving a new car every few years, private contract hire is often the better choice.

Alternative car finance options

Personal Contract Purchase (PCP)

Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) is a popular finance solution for new and used cars. It involves an initial deposit, fixed monthly payments, and flexible end-of-term options.

Learn more about PCP

Hire Purchase (HP)

Hire Purchase (HP) is another form of leasing agreement. You pay an initial deposit followed by fixed monthly instalments until the end of the term, where you will then own the vehicle at the end.

Learn more about PCH
What is personal contract hire?

Personal contract hire is a leasing agreement where you pay monthly to use a car for a fixed period, then return it at the end without owning it.


Are PCH cars a good option?

Yes, PCH cars are ideal if you want predictable costs, no ownership responsibilities, and access to newer models

What’s included in a personal hire contract?

A personal hire contract typically includes the vehicle, agreed mileage, and fixed monthly payments. Optional maintenance packages may also be available.

Can I buy the car at the end of a PCH agreement?

No, personal contract hire does not include an option to purchase the car. You simply return it at the end of the contract.

How do I find the best personal contract hire deals?

Compare personal contract hire deals based on initial payment, monthly cost, and mileage allowance. We offer a range of personal contract hire offers to suit different needs.

Is PCH car finance cheaper than buying?

PCH car finance often has lower monthly payments than buying a car outright, but you won’t own the vehicle at the end.

Can you end a Personal Contract Hire early?

Yes, you can end a personal contract hire agreement early, but this usually involves an early termination fee. The cost will depend on how much of your personal hire contract remains, so it’s important to review the terms before signing.

Do you need good credit for PCH?

Most PCH finance agreements require a credit check, and having a good credit score will help you access the most competitive personal contract hire offers. However, options may still be available depending on your financial situation.