How to Complain to Cinch
Step by step: where to complain, what to say, and where to go if Cinch does not put it right.
Consumer Protection UK is independent and is not connected to Cinch. This guide uses information published by Cinch and by the schemes named below. All product names, logos and brands are property of their respective owners.
- Where to complain
- Cinch official complaints page (opens in a new tab)
Cinch says you can complain through an online complaints form, by email to its Complaints Team or by post. It says it aims to resolve complaints within three business days and otherwise issues a Final Response Letter explaining the decision and next steps. - If it is not resolved
- We could not confirm a general ombudsman or ADR scheme for Cinch from its own pages. If it cannot settle your complaint, ask it in writing which approved ADR provider it uses and whether it will take part, and contact the Citizens Advice consumer service.
- Checked
- 4 October 2026 (company pages and scheme websites). Rules and pages change, so check the official page before you rely on this.
Good to know: Cinch says vehicle complaints can be referred to South Yorkshire Trading Standards Services and credit-broking complaints to the Financial Ombudsman Service, and that it will abide by their final decisions. It does not name The Motor Ombudsman on this page.
What to Do, Step by Step
- Gather your evidence. Order or account number, dates, receipts, screenshots, emails and what was said on calls.
- Complain in writing using the route above, and ask for a complaint reference. Say what went wrong, what you want, and by when (14 days is reasonable). Our free letter templates can write it for you.
- Keep a record. Note dates, names and reference numbers of every contact. Use email or a form where you can, so you have proof.
- Ask for a final response if you are not getting anywhere, then follow the escalation route above.
- Use other routes if they apply. If the company does not fix it, take it to the free ombudsman or ADR scheme named above. Your bank or card provider may help if you paid by card (Section 75 or chargeback). The Citizens Advice consumer service gives free advice and can pass a report to Trading Standards.
Useful to Know
- Under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, a car bought from a dealer must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose and as described. The same right to reject within 30 days and the 6-month presumption of a fault being there from the start are set out for goods generally.
- Keep the advert, invoice, service history and every message. Report faults in writing straight away and keep copies of repair invoices.
- Garage work must be done with reasonable care and skill and within a reasonable time. You can ask for it to be put right or for a price reduction.
- Do not let a dealer or garage tell you the problem is only a matter for the manufacturer. Your contract is with whoever sold you the car or did the work.
Want help? If you would like one of our team to look at your complaint, our initial case review is free. Start your case. We cannot guarantee any outcome and do not give legal advice.