Returned vehicles should have repairs completed to high standards. Failure to do so can result in rejection and another bill for rectifying poor workmanship.   The BVRLA say,    “There should be no rust, corrosion or discolouration on any painted area of the vehicle, this includes painted bumpers, body mouldings, and mirrors. Repaired chips, scratches, and dents are acceptable provided that the work is completed to a professional standard by approved repairers who can provide full warranty on their work. Obvious evidence of poor repair, such as flaking paint, preparation marks, paint contamination, rippled finish, and poorly matched paint, is not acceptable”   bvrla fair wear and tear guide link

Vehicle Charges

Most leasing companies use the BVRLA Code of Conduct when a car is in a condition less than expected.   End of lease charges reflect the loss of value in the vehicle to the leasing company. Charges will be made if a car decreases in value as a result of a failure to use, maintain and look after the vehicle and its equipment.     Appraise your vehicle  

Inspect the exterior

Before your lease hire vehicle is due back to the company consider the following:   Inspect your vehicle and identify any damage that might need repair. Use the BVRLA Fair Wear and Tear Guide and these tips when appraising your vehicle:   Carry out the appraisal of the lease hire vehicle 10 – 12 weeks before the vehicle is due for return. This will allow you to arrange to have any unacceptable wear and tear rectified.   Choose a time and place with good light. This is how the leasing company will examine your vehicle. Appraisals carried out in poor light can miss some faults.   Wash the vehicle before your inspection make sure that it is clean, but remember to allow time for it to dry. Water on the paintwork can mask faults.   Walk around the vehicle and examine each panel. Check the roof, bonnet, doors, and body for significant damage.   Look along the body panels on each side. This will help you see scratches and dents that may otherwise be difficult to spot.   Inspect lights, lenses, windows and mirrors for chips, cracks, and holes. Check the tyres for damage and that the wear on the tread across each tyre is even. Inspect alloy wheels, wheel trims for scratches and deterioration.  

Inspect the interior

Clean and valet the interior, and check for damage to seats, dashboards and trim panels.   Be honest with yourself, and save potential high return costs. If you think it may need to be repaired, no doubt it will.