Hi again kerry,

We're not credit file experts, but I think I might know the answer to this.

My understanding is that this is the type of search that's done on your credit file when using comparison websites, perhaps to get a deal on car insurance for example.

My understanding is also that this type of search doesn't (or at least shouldn't) affect your credit rating.

ok thanks was done by a car finance company

That's maybe a little different then. I've just done a little research and it seems that:

Quotation searches - these are done by potential lenders or brokers, but prior to you submitting an actual credit application. A lender that you do apply for credit from in the future should know that a "quotation search" wasn't an actual credit application.

Preliminary searches - as I previously described, often carried out when seeking car insurance quotes for example. I guess this is because many people choose to pay in monthly installments which are in fact credit agreements.

thanks so sound like will help them decide whether to help me is that right?

Hi kerry,

Yes - I think so.

If they have access to a number of lenders (for example) then understanding your credit score might help them to direct you to a lender which is more likely to be able to help you.

If they themselves offer credit, then understanding your credit score may help them to provide you with a quote which is more likely to honoured if a full credit application is later submitted.