EXHIBIT 23.1


            CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM


We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement on
Form S-8 (No. 333-62676) pertaining to the Westcorp 2001 Stock Option Plan, and
in the related Prospectus of Westcorp of our reports dated March 8, 2005 with
respect to the consolidated financial statements of Westcorp, Westcorp
management's assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial
reporting, and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting of
Westcorp, in this Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended December 31,
2004.




                                             /s/ERNST & YOUNG LLP

Los Angeles, California
March 11, 2005