When handing your car back at the end of a lease, you will be required to pay for damages. See what is considered standard wear and tear and what’s not.
In this guide…
When your car lease comes to an end, handing the keys back is more than just waving goodbye to your trusty motor. There’s a little something called wear and tear, and knowing what counts as “fair” could save you from unexpected charges.
Your lease car’s wear and tear are inspected within days of returning it to your leaser. The leasing company’s eagle-eyed assessors will check the condition of your vehicle. This isn’t about nitpicking every scratch or scuff – they’re assessing normal, everyday usage.
As much as they are lenient towards wear and tear, it’s wise to brush up on what to expect so you don’t get hit with nasty surprises. In this guide, we’ll navigate the world of lease car wear and tear, ensuring you know what’s acceptable, what’s not, and how to handle it like a pro.
What’s Considered Fair Wear & Tear?
The first thing to know is that not every nick and blemish will leave you out of pocket. The British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) sets the industry standard for fair wear and tear in the UK, and they have a set of guidelines to assess what damage is par for the course:
- Exterior: Minor surface scratches, small dents (under 15mm) and stone chips that haven’t rusted.
- Interior: Light staining that could be removed with a standard clean; minor scuffs on trim panels; and general seat wear.
- Tyres & Wheels: Some tread wear is expected (as long as it’s within legal limits). Small scuffs on alloy wheels may also be acceptable.
What won’t fly? Here’s a breakdown of what breaches the limits of acceptable wear and tear:
- Deep scratches on the bodywork.
- Dents larger than a golf ball.
- Any damage that affects the vehicle’s functionality or safety.
How to Address Wear & Tear
Think of your car as a rental holiday home – you should aim to return it in the same condition as you found it. Staying on top of routine maintenance and ensuring the car is regularly serviced can go a long way. It’s a good idea to inspect the vehicle a few weeks before the return date, so you have time to address any visible issues. If you spot major damage, it’s often cheaper to have it repaired yourself than to face hefty lease penalties.
Finally, before the inspection, you’ll want to spruce up the car. A thorough clean both inside and out can go a long way in leaving a good impression and ensures no stains or dirt make things look worse than they are.
What are the Consequences of Unacceptable Wear & Tear?
If your vehicle doesn’t meet the leasing company’s standards, you could face excess wear and tear charges. These charges are designed to cover the cost of restoring the vehicle to an acceptable condition.
In 2020, the average fine for failed wear and tear inspections on lease cars was £326, but the amount varies depending on the severity of the damage. In any case, surprise bills at the end of a lease can be a bitter pill to swallow, especially when a little foresight could have avoided them.
Can You Appeal an Unacceptable Wear & Tear Decision?
If you disagree with the leasing company’s assessment, you have the right to appeal. Start by requesting a detailed report outlining the damages and costs. If you still believe the charges are unfair, you can seek an independent inspection for a second opinion. Many leasing companies are open to negotiation, particularly if you’re planning to lease another car through them.
Lease Your Next Car with cars2buy
Make your lease journey smoother at the start and the end with cars2buy. We are the UK’s number one destination for the best lease deals from hundreds of trusted dealerships across the UK. Our transparent leasing service searches the web for the best leasing deals online, so you can find all the latest models available for leasing all in one place. From there, you can then get your hands on the ideal new lease car for you without the hassle. We have given you all of the information you need to lease a new car at the best possible price, without any additional fees, to give you the best possible deal. Look through our range of personal and business leases today, and you could be driving away in a brand-new model sooner than you think.