I thought that about not having to pay the AP upfront until when I joined the scheme nearly 3 years ago. I went to 4 different dealers, Audi, VW, Ford and Vauxhall all different franchises and they all told me the AP was payable upfront in full before they ordered the car. I protested and said what if the car comes damaged or incorrect specs and they all said that was how they did it. I rang Motability who said they should ask for the AP on the day of collection but they are within their rights to ask for it in full or a deposit before they order. I had to pay £199 upfront for my Astra else they wouldn’t order it.