Hey there, Phil Merritt here, Managing Director of Smart Car UK. If you’re coming up to the end of your car lease, you might be wondering: How do I avoid getting slapped with hefty penalties? Well, my friend, you’ve come to the right place!
Handing back a leased car isn’t just about chucking the keys back and walking away. Lease companies love to charge for every little dent, scratch, or scuffed alloy wheel. But don’t worry – follow my top 10 tips, and you’ll sail through your lease return without the nasty surprises.
1. Know Your Lease Agreement Inside Out
Before you panic about every little mark, check your lease agreement. Most contracts include a fair wear and tear policy – meaning minor marks from everyday use might be totally acceptable.
2. Give Your Car a DIY Inspection
A month before your return date, give your car a proper once-over. Look out for scratches, dents, bumper scuffs, or anything that might not meet the lease company’s standards. If you find something, don’t ignore it – get it fixed!
3. Check Your Alloy Wheels
Lease companies love charging for alloy wheel damage. A little scrape from a curb? That could cost you. Get them refurbished before returning the car – it’s often cheaper than what the lease company will charge you.
4. Keep Your Service History Up to Date
If your lease agreement requires regular servicing, make sure it’s all logged and up to date. Missing a scheduled service could mean additional fees at the end of your contract.
5. Give Your Car a Good Clean
It sounds simple, but a clean car makes a great first impression. A quick valet inside and out can make all the difference when the lease company inspects it.
6. Get Any Dents or Scratches Repaired
Even small dents and scratches can lead to big bills. Use SMART (Small to Medium Area Repair Technology) repairs to fix minor bodywork damage affordably and efficiently.
7. Replace Any Missing Items
Did you lose a key fob? Is the parcel shelf missing? Check your car’s original inventory and replace anything that’s gone missing before your handover date.
8. Check Your Tyres
Bald tyres are a big no-no. Most lease agreements require at least 1.6mm of tread depth. If they’re looking worn, it’s cheaper to replace them yourself than to get billed by the lease company.
9. Avoid Last-Minute Rush Repairs
Don’t leave everything to the last minute! Book in for an end-of-lease inspection with a professional (like us at Smart Car UK!) at least 2-4 weeks before your return date. That way, you’ve got time to sort any issues.
10. Work with Experts (Like Us!)
This is the golden rule – work with professionals who know exactly what lease companies look for. At Smart Car UK, we specialise in end-of-lease repairs to help you avoid unnecessary charges. From bumper scuffs to alloy wheel refurbishment, we’ll get your car looking spotless before it goes back.
Need Help? Book Your Pre-Lease Inspection Today!
Don’t let your lease company drain your wallet with unfair charges. At Smart Car UK, we make it easy for you to return your car without stress or surprises.
Smart Car UK
1-4 Newcome Drive,
Hawksworth Industrial Estate,
Swindon, SN2 1DZ
Call us today: 01793 528 452
Book your FREE end-of-lease inspection today! Let’s get your car looking its best before handover and save you money in the process!
