If you currently drive a leased vehicle, you are likely already aware of the final, nerve-wracking stage, the handback inspection. After years of reliable driving, returning the car can be a source of anxiety, as minor bumps and scuffs, which you may have long forgotten, suddenly become liabilities.
It is normal for a car to show signs of use after a few years of driving. However, lease companies often jump on any damage that falls outside their strict definition of ‘normal wear and tear,’ charging hefty penalties or costs for repair that can quickly escalate. These charges, applied by the lease assessor, can often significantly exceed the price you would pay to have the damage fixed affordably beforehand.
The easiest way to avoid these costly handback penalties and ensure a stress-free return is simple, ensure your car is in mint condition before the assessor even arrives.
What Are Lease Assessors Really Looking For?
When a lease company conducts a final inspection, they are meticulous. Their assessors will thoroughly inspect the vehicle’s bodywork, looking for damage that goes beyond acceptable standards.
They specifically search for:
- Body Damage: Scuffs, dents, and scratches, especially to bumper corners and wing mirrors, which are incredibly common but rarely considered “wear and tear.”
- Paint Discrepancies: They look closely at the paintwork for any chips that penetrate the surface, leading to discolouration or signs of corrosion.
- Wheel Damage: Scuffed or pitted alloy wheels are a prime target for high penalty charges.
Any damage they identify will undoubtedly result in additional charges. By using our end-of-lease service, you can proactively address these issues and save yourself a considerable fortune.
The AutoLux Three-Step Service for a Flawless Return
At AutoLux, we specialise in end-of-lease repairs, ensuring your vehicle meets those strict return standards without costing you a fortune. Our process is designed for maximum efficiency and quality, getting your car looking factory-fresh using affordable SMART repair techniques.
Step 1: The Comprehensive Assessment
Our skilled technicians have extensive experience and understand the specific standards that lease companies demand. We start by performing a thorough, non-judgmental check of the entire vehicle’s bodywork and wheels, identifying all problem areas that could result in a penalty charge. Based on this comprehensive assessment, we provide a competitive quote to repair the car’s bodywork and wheels.
Step 2: Quality Repair, Guaranteed
Once approved, our paint technicians get to work. We address minor dents, scuffs, scratches, and any paint damage using premium materials within our modern, purpose-built workshop facilities. This fixed-site environment is crucial for achieving the pristine finish needed for a seamless SMART repair. We can match any paint colour, ensuring there is no discrepancy in colouration or finish across the bodywork. We even repair or refurbish damaged alloys to restore them to standard.
Step 3: Peace of Mind
Our confidence in the quality and durability of our craftsmanship is absolute. That is why we proudly offer a lifetime warranty on all paint services, covering issues like peeling, cracking, or premature fading. By choosing AutoLux, you are investing in a repair that not only avoids immediate handback penalties but is guaranteed to last.
Don’t wait until the last minute and risk those steep charges. Let AutoLux help you prepare your leased vehicle and ensure a smooth, worry-free handback.