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10 minute check up could save thousands in damage charges

Car cleaning 800

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9 June 2014

Car cleaning
Ensure the car is clean and tidy all over before you return it the leasing company – it’s the best way to avoid lease car damage charges at the end of the contract hire rental period

Are you a business car manager, sick and tired of lease car damage charges when your company cars are returned to the leasing company?

Research by business vehicle specialist, Fleetdrive, has found that managers could save thousands of pounds every year by giving their cars a quick 10-minute check-up a few weeks before the official end of lease inspection is due.

In fact, according to industry figures, as many as 27 per cent of company cars incur a fair wear and tear charge after they are sent back to the lease company. Anything from scuffed alloy wheels to stained seats and peeling trim can result in a retrospective charge – all of which could be avoided if you follow these top tips.

Ten top tips to avoid lease car damage charges

  1. Put the car through a car wash and ensure it’s clean and dry all over. Muck can disguise scuffs and scratches, and it’s important you can see the car’s bodywork clearly.
  2. Inspect the car in bright daylight, starting in one corner and working your way around from top to bottom. Make sure you check all panels, including the roof, doors and bonnet.
  3. Bend down to check lower areas, and don’t forget that scuffed alloy wheels and bumpers can cost you dearly when the car is returned to the leasing company.
  4. Sit inside the car and check the seats and upholstery are clean and free from marks, stains and scuffs. Don’t forget to look in the boot – as this is often a place where dirt and grime gather. Out of sight isn’t out of mind in this case!
  5. Make sure all the controls and switches are in place, and that all optional extras are present and correct. It’s also important to note that none show significant signs of wear or tear.

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Matt Morton

Matt Morton

Matt Morton is an automotive content writer for Business Car Manager

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