Cars are one of the most common things enforcement agents take control of, because they’re easy to find and to value. But there are clear rules about which vehicles they can and can’t take.
The short answer
- Bailiffs can clamp a car you own and later remove it for sale.
- They can’t take a car on hire purchase or PCP, as it belongs to the lender.
- A vehicle you need for your job or business is exempt up to a combined value of £1,350 for work items.
- Cars displaying a valid Blue Badge, and Motability cars, are usually protected.
- They can’t take a car that belongs to someone else.
When can bailiffs clamp my car?
After the notice of enforcement period, an enforcement agent can clamp a car on a road or on your property (but not inside a locked garage without the right to enter). They’ll leave a notice. If you don’t pay or agree a plan, the car can be removed, with extra fees added.
Which cars are exempt?
- Cars on finance, which belong to the finance company
- Vehicles needed for work, up to the £1,350 limit for tools of the trade
- Vehicles displaying a valid Blue Badge
- Motability vehicles
- Cars owned by someone else, such as a partner, if you can prove it
What should I do if my car is clamped?
Contact the enforcement firm straight away. If the car is exempt, send evidence, such as the finance agreement or V5C. If it isn’t, try to agree an affordable plan before it’s removed. See how to stop bailiffs and bailiff fees explained.
Common questions
Can bailiffs take a car in my partner's name?
Not if it genuinely belongs to your partner. Show the V5C and proof of purchase.
Can bailiffs take my car from my workplace?
They can clamp a car you own on a public road. Taking it from private land needs the right to be there.
Can bailiffs take a car for parking fines?
Yes, if the fine has reached enforcement and the car is yours and not exempt. See bailiffs for parking fines.
Getting help
You don’t have to deal with debt on your own. Free, impartial advice is available from MoneyHelper, StepChange and National Debtline. If you want to talk through whether a formal solution such as an IVA could be suitable, you can also get in touch with us.