Santander change of direct debit date charges

jonno271

I recently changed my car and the new finance agreement is with Santander Consumer Finance. When I signed the agreement at the dealer I asked if I would be able to change the date of direct debit as I bought the car late in the month and the first payment was due 30 days later and I want the payment to come out early in the month. "Yes, no problem" he said, "just give them a call after the first payment has cleared"...

Well I called them today to be told they want £25 to change the direct debit date :mad::mad::mad: WHAT? That's ridiculous. I've been with Black Horse for years and they've never once charged for changing the payment date...

Is there anything I can do to get around this? I've had a few suggestions from workmates about cancelling the direct debit and either setting up a standing order for the date I want (but I'd need their account number for that), or just cancelling it and when they call, plead ignorance and ask them to set it up again for the 1st of the month, but I'm guessing that means I'd default against the agreement...

I just think this is extortionate for an "admin fee". There's probably less admin involved for Santander than there is for my bank. Any help/suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

PC_Gabriel_Kent

Get the car dealer to pay the £25. They told you wrong information and that is not Santander Finances problem but a problem for the dealer giving you false info.

jonno271

PC_Gabriel_Kent wrote: »

Get the car dealer to pay the £25. They told you wrong information and that is not Santander Finances problem but a problem for the dealer giving you false info.

Hmm, that may work although they never said it wouldn't cost, just that it was possible. I may persue this though playing the "you never told me" hand.

nelly12

I would defo try with the dealer. They should know that Santander charge a customer to change a direct debit date. It's their lack of knowledge that has cost you £25 so not Santanders fault.