Although you don’t own your leased vehicle, it is important that you care for it in the same way you would if you did. Although there aren’t specific rules when it comes to the condition of your vehicle at the end of your leasing contract, it is important to cover the basics, ensuring your car is in a good and clean condition. When a car is returned at the end of the contract, it will undergo a fair wear and tear check which will inspect the condition of the car, checking for any damage that has not previously been identified.
Fair wear and tear
Fair wear and tear is considered to be minor signs of damage and continued usage. Marks, chips, scratches and dents that you may expect to find on a vehicle that has been driven regularly over a few years.
The BVRLA (British Vehicle Rental & Leasing Association) provides their own definition of fair wear and tear and a guide that explains this in more detail for leaseholders.
‘Fair wear and tear occurs when normal usage causes deterioration to a vehicle. It is not to be confused with damage which occurs as a result of a specific event or series of events such as impact, inappropriate stowing of items, harsh-treatment, negligent acts or omissions.’
If you lease a vehicle and your leasing company will be inspecting the vehicle according to the BVRLA Fair Wear & Tear Standard, you should request a copy of this, so you can understand the exact definition. Allowing you to return your vehicle in a fair condition that will pass their inspections.
Keeping your leased vehicle well-maintained
While you are within contact for your leased vehicle, it is particularly important that you keep your vehicle well-maintained. Throughout your contract you must ensure that you drive cautiously, taking extra care not to cause large amounts of damage to the body or the interior of your vehicle, avoiding big dents, scrapes, and deep scratches. Much like owning a vehicle, if you spot any signs of major damages to your vehicle, you should get this repaired by qualified mechanics.
If you are involved in an accident and your car has incurred a large amount of damage, we have further explained what to do when your leased car is in an accident here.
Servicing your leased vehicle during your contract
During your contract it is your responsibility to have your vehicle serviced according to the servicing schedule. Regular servicing of your leased vehicle will ensure that the car is kept in good working order and meets the standard requirements once your contract comes to an end. If you do not adhere to the servicing schedule of the vehicle or keep record of services in your service book, you may incur additional charges at the end of your contract.
Although servicing is a requirement for leased cars, you should note that this will benefit you and your driving. Services will take care of small vehicle maintenance such as oil changes, brake checks, steering alignment, tyre pressure and more. Making sure the car you are driving is performing to the best of its ability and is safe too.
At the end of your lease contract, there is also a requirement to return your vehicle with a full vehicle MOT. This provides the acknowledgement that all running parts of your vehicle are working to the legally required standard.
Car leasing with maintenance packages
At All Car Leasing we offer leasing with maintenance packages. These have been designed to offer leased vehicle contract holders the option to have maintenance and service costs included in their fixed monthly payments. Although this may result in slightly higher monthly payments, you would benefit from an all-in-one car leasing solution that makes car leasing as simple as possible for you. Find out more about maintenance packages.