Preparing Your Vehicle For the End of your Lease

By Lauren Bagnall
03-02-2021
Preparing Your Vehicle For the End of your Lease
When you lease a vehicle and your contract is up, it’s time to hand it back over for a brand new motor in the latest model. One of the many benefits of car leasing is that you get to drive around in a brand new car without paying the extortionate costs that come along with it. When returning your car at the end of your lease, there are certain steps that you need to adhere to.

Here at MW vehicle contracts (MWVC), we provide car, van and pickup leasing for both private and business use. With a vast range of make and models to choose from, as well as leasing contracts to suit every budget, we’ve got the deal for you. Following an initial rental, your monthly rentals won’t change, meaning you don’t have to worry about paying interest on fixed monthly payments like financing. Read our article below to see what you need to do when returning your leased vehicle.


Arranging Collection

At the end of your contract, you can arrange for the collection of the old car and delivery of a new one . The British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) advise that you inspect your car thoroughly for any damage considered greater than fair wear and tear. You should also consult your contract.

On the day of collection, your car will be inspected for any scrapes and bumps, as well as its mileage, before being taken away. It’s also worth giving it a clean before handing it over, but as long as there is no major damage and it’s safe to drive, you should be fine. When handing over the car, you must also provide the car’s:

• Service book

• MOT certificate

• All keys

• Manual (if applicable)

If you have already scheduled a delivery time for a new vehicle, you don’t need to do anything else. Deliveries and collections are arranged by us and provided by a logistics company. You can contact us regarding any enquiries concerning your current lease, or if you would like to arrange a new one. Here at MWVC, we will deliver your new vehicle to you, free of charge. To view our vast range of cars, vans and pickups for lease, please visit us here.


Wear and Tear and Excess Mileage

When someone arrives to check over your vehicle, they’ll look for any damage, as well as the annual mileage. Your leasing contractors will have a guide on what is considered “fair” wear and tear, which are minor scrapes and bumps that you can get away with. If your leased car endures severe damage through an accident or poor treatment, it is your responsibility to take it to a garage. Examples of acceptable wear and tear include:

Small dents up to 15mm and scratches up to 25mm

Light scratching on the windscreen, as long as it does not affect the driver’s vision

Tyres with tread of more than 1.6mm

Examples of unacceptable wear and tear include:

Scratches over 25mm

Differences in paintwork, rust or abrasions

Missing documentation, keys or services

Chips, cracks or holes in the windscreen


Before you signed your contract, you will have stated how many miles you intended to use, as well as having your monthly rentals confirmed and how long the contract would be. Your car will be inspected to ensure you have stuck to the mileage limit. If you suspect you are going to exceed your mileage before collection, you should inform your provider.

Here at MWVC, we have a “Fair Wear and Tear” policy for all of our pickup, van and car leasing deals. It is created by the BVRLA, and all founders are signed up. All leasing deals come with terms and conditions, so make sure you’re clued up before signing a contract. We offer a range of car, van and pickup lease deals perfect for private and business use. 


Moving Forward

If you found your leasing experience beneficial, you can opt for a new one with different leasing terms. You can opt for a brand new car of the same make as your old one, or you can choose a completely different one. Here at MWVC, we have a range of vehicle makes and models suitable for your preferences. From the latest Mercedes Benz model to a new Ford Ranger pickup, our lease deals can be the perfect choice for your budget.