Wrong Details on Your PCN
If the Parking Charge Notice or Penalty Charge Notice contains incorrect vehicle details — wrong registration number, make, model, or colour — this can be grounds for appeal. The accuracy of the notice matters because it must correctly identify the vehicle alleged to have committed the contravention.
Types of Errors
- Wrong registration number: The strongest ground. If the registration doesn't match your vehicle, the PCN was not issued to your car.
- Wrong make or model: If the PCN says "Ford Focus" but you drive a "Vauxhall Astra," this raises questions about whether the right vehicle was observed.
- Wrong colour: A minor error but still suggests the officer or ANPR system may have recorded the wrong vehicle.
- Partial registration errors: Even one wrong character in the registration can invalidate the notice.
How Strong Is This Ground?
A wrong registration number is a very strong ground — it directly challenges whether the PCN relates to your vehicle at all. Wrong make, model, or colour are supporting evidence that the operator may have the wrong vehicle, though they are not always sufficient on their own. Combine vehicle detail errors with other grounds for the strongest appeal.
How to Appeal
Point out the specific errors in your appeal letter and state that the PCN does not accurately identify your vehicle. If the registration is wrong, you can argue the notice is invalid. Provide photos of your vehicle showing the correct details.
Generate Your Appeal Letter
Wrong details mean a strong appeal. Generate your personalised appeal letter in minutes with CancelMyFine — just £4.99. Visit CancelMyFine.co.uk to challenge your incorrectly issued fine.