Enquire now
0333 016 4331Enquire now
  1. Back to blog

Splend Flexi Own vs Dealership Finance: What’s Better for PCO Drivers in the UK?

If you’re a PCO driver or looking to drive with Uber, choosing how to finance your vehicle is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make. Your car isn’t just a way to get around — it’s how you earn. That’s why the right car finance for Uber drivers should work for your income, your flexibility, and your peace of mind. 

So, what’s the better option for Uber drivers in the UK? A traditional dealership finance agreement, or Splend’s Flexi Own plan designed specifically for private hire drivers? 

Let’s compare the two — and help you find the best car finance for your rideshare journey.

What is Splend Flexi Own

Splend’s Flexi Own plan is a unique alternative to traditional PCO car finance. It’s a flexible, all-inclusive vehicle subscription designed for Uber drivers, private hire vehicles, and rideshare platforms. 

You make one weekly or monthly payment that includes:

  • Annual PHV licence renewal, vehicle tax and MOT

  • PHV Damage and Loss cover (Insurance)

  • Scheduled car servicing

  • Replacement tyres and brakes due to wear 

  • 24/7 support including breakdown assistance

Unlike most car lease options, Flexi Own gives you the chance to buy the car at the end of your term, with no balloon payment at the end of the term and no hidden fees. It's an easy way to buy a car for Uber UK.

How to Finance a PCO Car — What to Consider 

Before choosing how to finance a PCO car, think beyond the sticker price. Your running costs, flexibility, and ability to scale your income all matter.

Ask yourself:

  • What’s the upfront cost?

  • Does the plan affect my credit score?

  • What ongoing support will I get?

  • Can I stop or switch if my situation changes?

  • Is the car eligible for Uber or private hire work?

  • Are electric cars or hybrids available?

Let’s see how Splend stacks up against dealership finance for Uber drivers. 

Splend vs Dealership Finance: Head-to-Head 

1. Upfront Costs 

  • Dealership Finance: Expect a large deposit, plus extras like stamp duty, registration, and insurance. That’s before you even start driving. 

  • Splend Flexi Own: No large deposit required. Just one simple set up payment to get on the road with a PCO- ready car. It’s ideal for drivers looking to start driving without upfront stress.

2. Balloon Payment 

  • Dealership Finance: Most plans include a balloon payment at the end — a big lump sum that may be more than the car is worth at the end, meaning if even if you sell the car you may be left out of pocket. 

  • Splend: No balloon payment. You simply complete your plan, then you can make an offer to have the car transferred to your name, giving you the opportunity to own the vehicle at the end of your term.

3. Credit Score & Approval 

  • Dealership Finance: Typically requires a strong credit score and detailed finance checks — which can be a barrier if you’ve had bad credit in the past. 

  • Splend Flexi Own: We offer no credit checks for Uber drivers. All applications are considered based on your potential, not your past.

4. What’s Included 

  • Dealership Finance: You’re only financing the car. You still need to budget for insurance, MOT and car tax, servicing, tyre and brake replacement, and more.  

  • Splend: Everything’s included in one transparent, weekly payment. That’s what makes it one of the easiest ways to run a PCO car with insurance and servicing included. 

5. Ongoing Support 

  • Dealership Finance: Once the keys are handed over, you’re on your own. Repairs, breakdowns, and earning advice? That’s up to you. 

  • Splend: We support you the entire way — with access to 24/7 customer support, Uber and PCO education and performance insights, and tips to maximise your earnings. 

Whether you’re new or experienced, we’ll help you start driving smarter. 

FAQs: Car Finance for Uber Drivers in the UK 

  • Can Uber drivers get car finance in the UK with bad credit? Yes. With Splend, we don’t check credit history. We look at your goals as a driver in the UK, not your financial past. 

  • Is Splend’s Flexi Own plan a lease or a loan? It’s a flexible plan with the option to own the car at the end. It’s a smart alternative to PCO car lease or traditional finance and purchase models. 

  • Can I use this plan for full-time Uber or Bolt driving? Absolutely. Every car meets Uber car finance UK requirements, including MOT, PCO licence, and insurance. If you also drive on other platforms like Bolt, Splend's vehicles also meet their requirements.

  • What happens at the end of my Flexi Own plan? You can choose to purchase the car with no balloon payment, you can also upgrade to another vehicle.

  • Does Splend offer electric cars? Yes — we offer electric cars and hybrids approved for private hire work, helping reduce your running costs and emissions. 

What’s the Best Car Finance Option for Uber Drivers? 

If you’re deciding how to buy a car for Uber UK, Splend’s Flexi Own Plan offers an easier, more supportive path than most dealership finance deals.

With:

  • No large upfront costs 

  • No credit checks

  • Servicing and insurance included 

  • Flexible terms 

  • A clear option to own at the end of your term

…it’s no wonder more and more PCO drivers are switching to Splend.

Related posts