Looked into whether I am eligible for car finance compensation and this is the response I got…

[Iloveleaveinconditioner]

So I used the template on the MSE forum last night to email the dealer where I got my financed car from in 2011.

They’ve just emailed me back this ‘I can advise that the finance house was Santander Consumer UK Ltd, however due to time passed and data protection, we no longer have the file as it will have been destroyed.’

Is that it then? Or does anyone know where I could go from here to see if I am owed anything?

The FCA will be setting up a compensation scheme in early 2026. Hold fire and use that.

MSE probably has advice on what happens if the complaint is about finance a long time ago.

I listen to the Martin Lewis podcast and I know he's discussed this a few times but I can't remember what was said.

I had a similar reply to this, you need to complain to Santander Consumer UK Ltd, as they are the finance company. If I remember correctly, it doesn't matter if they deleted the files as long as you have proof - copy of the agreement, annual statement etc

Hi, just resurrecting this thread. So I did take it up directly with Santander, they sent me copies of my finance agreement from way back when. They’ve just sent me the below:

‘Thank you for your recent enquiry in relation to your motor finance agreements.

We are responding to you by email as this is the received method of contact. Emails are not always secure, but we have been careful not to include any sensitive information.

Having checked our records, your agreement was subject to commission and at least one of the arrangements that you have set out in your letter may have been present. As a result of this, we have considered this as a formal letter of complaint while we review your case. You will receive an acknowledgement letter in the post, and we will begin to investigate your complaint.’

Am I correct in thinking they’re saying I may have a case for some compensation?

Yes, that's how I read it. Well done!

They will now add you to the pile of thousands of others of potential complaints while they wait for the outcome of the whole scheme to be announced.