Yes, you can still make a PCP complaint, despite lenders being paused from providing final outcomes. The pause is for lenders to send a response only [1]; it does not stop them from accepting/receiving or logging a complaint. Submit your complaint now so it is officially logged and timestamped to secure your place in the queue when responses to these types of complaints can be processed again. It is important to take action sooner rather than later. As mentioned earlier, the FCA have acknowledged there will be a backlog of these types of cases when the redress scheme moves to the next stage in early 2026. This move is designed to protect your rights by giving firms enough time to review complaints properly. It also increases the likelihood that your PCP car finance claim including issues involving undisclosed commissions, unfair interest, or add-ons you did not ask for, will be assessed within a reasonable timeframe.

Why Complaints Can Still Be Submitted

The FCA’s pause applies only to the issuance of final decisions and does not stop lenders from receiving complaints. Lenders are under a legal obligation to log all submissions, so your complaint has been recorded and acknowledged. It's worth being up the queue because when the guidance is finalised, PCP commission claims and other complaints will probably be prioritised by date of submission, so your right to redress will be preserved and timelines can remain flexible. Submitting now also safeguards claims involving potential discretionary commission arrangements, mis-sold add-ons, or other elements of a car finance scandal that may be included in your agreement.

Late 2025 Context

As of late 2025, the FCA is consulting on how lenders should handle PCP claims and mis-sold car finance [2]. The consultation is from October to 12 December 2025 [3]. This pause stops lenders from issuing final decisions but ensures all complaints are recorded. There are no deadlines or time limits applying during the pause period; however, waiting to apply may result in being subject to a substantial backlog of cases once lenders are able to issue final decisions again. Consumers who submit complaints now will be able to secure their position in the queue once the FCA finalises guidance. Checking the latest updates on car finance claims in the UK can help you stay informed on timelines and eligibility.

Example Scenario

For instance, a lady who financed her vehicle under a PCP agreement in 2023 later realised that her contract included add-ons she did not request. She lodged her complaint in November 2025. Although her lender can’t make final decisions yet, the complaint has been recorded and time-stamped. After the FCA guidance is issued, her complaint will be in line for review and will be looked at quickly. She could also explore whether she can make a claim for add-ons by following the article "Can I claim if my PCP agreement included gap insurance or add-ons I didn’t ask for?" This illustrates the importance of acting early, particularly if your complaint relates to a car finance mis-selling issue.

Navigating Your PCP Claim

Making a complaint does not automatically need to involve a solicitor but sometimes it is best to take professional advice. "Do I need a solicitor to make a car finance mis-selling complaint?" A credible and professional claims management company can help illuminate the issue and submit your PCP claims for you accurately and ensure you have included all of the relevant information about any add-ons or mis-sold products or services. Additionally, understanding what’s the role of the Financial Ombudsman in car finance redress can provide reassurance that your complaint will receive an impartial review if the lender cannot resolve it.

Next Steps

Submitting your complaint now is the most strategic approach. It confirms your complaint is logged, secures your rights, and puts you in position for priority review when lenders begin to issue final outcomes. Not sure if you are eligible? Use Reclaim247's quick checker to see if your PCP or mis-sold add-ons are due compensation. Acting today helps secure your place in the queue for any PCP claims or disputes related to the wider car finance scandal and ensures your rights are protected ahead of the FCA’s final guidance.

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References:

1. The pause is for lenders to send a response only - https://www.fca.org.uk/publications/policy-statements/ps24-18-further-temporary-changes-handling-rules-motor-finance-complaints#:~:text=The%20rules%20described%20in%20this,until%20after%204%20December%202025.
2. the FCA is consulting on how lenders should handle PCP claims and mis-sold car finance - https://www.fca.org.uk/news/statements/fca-consults-motor-finance-compensation-scheme
3. The consultation is from October to 12 December 2025 - https://www.fca.org.uk/news/statements/motor-finance-compensation-scheme-consultation-progress-and-timing