When leasing a car through Lex Autolease, understanding fair wear and tear can help you avoid unexpected charges when your agreement comes to an end.  In this guide, we’ll explore what fair wear and tear means, how it’s assessed, and how you can smoothly return your vehicle.

What is Fair Wear and Tear?

Fair wear and tear refers to the standard deterioration that occurs through normal use of a vehicle. It is an industry-standard term defined and regulated by the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA). Unlike damage caused by misuse or accidents, wear and tear accounts for the natural ageing of your car throughout your lease period.

For example, minor scratches, light scuffs on alloy wheels, or seat creases from regular use are typically deemed acceptable. However, deeper scratches, dents, or torn upholstery may fall outside these guidelines.

The Role of the BVRLA Fair Wear and Tear Guidelines

The BVRLA Fair Wear and Tear guidelines ensure consistency and transparency during vehicle inspections. Lex Autolease, like other leasing companies, adheres to these standards, which outline what is considered acceptable when returning your leased car.

Key areas assessed include:

• Exterior condition: Scratches, dents, or chipped paint.

• Interior condition: Upholstery stains, dashboard damage, or odours.

• Tyres: Tread depth and any visible damage.

• Mechanical condition: Functionality of brakes, lights, and other mechanical components.

These guidelines are designed to distinguish between normal ageing and excessive damage that  would require a repair or replacement of parts.

What’s Considered Normal Wear and Tear?

Understanding what counts as normal wear and tear can reduce concerns about unexpected charges. Examples include:

• Small scratches: Light marks that do not penetrate the paintwork.

• Tyre wear: Even wear with tread depth above the legal limit. You can carry out a tread depth test to check this.

• Interior marks: Slight scuffing on door panels or creasing on seats.

What’s Unacceptable Wear and Tear?

Unacceptable wear and tear typically results from neglect, accidents, or improper care. Examples include:

• Deep scratches or dents larger than 25m, or dents larger than 10mm.

• Interior stains or burns on seats and carpets.

• Worn or damaged tyres below the legal tread depth.

• Cracked or damaged windscreens or windows.

Leasing companies like Lex Autolease may charge for repairs that exceed acceptable limits.

Tips for Maintaining Your Vehicle

To avoid penalties, follow these tips to keep your leased car in excellent condition:

1. Clean regularly: Wash your car frequently to prevent dirt build-up that could cause scratches or damage.

2. Repair minor damages promptly: Address small chips or dents before they worsen.

3. Service the car routinely: Stick to the recommended servicing schedule to maintain mechanical performance. Use the service reminder in Caura to stay on track and book your service in app.

4. Protect the interior: Use seat covers, avoid eating inside the car, and address stains immediately.

5. Inspect tyres often: Ensure tyre pressure is correct and replace worn tyres when necessary.

6.     Download Caura to keep track of how long is left on your lease and book your maintenance. Download here.

By following these practices, you’ll likely meet Lex Autolease’s return standards.

Preparing to Return Your Vehicle

Preparation is key before returning your car. Here’s a checklist to help you:

1. Inspect the car yourself: Use the BVRLA’s guidelines to assess for any damage.

2. Carry out your self inspection early: Give yourself some time to carry out repairs if they’re needed. You can book repairs in Caura.

3. Clean thoroughly: Ensure the car is clean both inside and out for inspection.

4. Return all items: Include all the keys, service records, and any accessories that came with the vehicle.

5. Schedule an appraisal: Some leasing companies offer pre-return inspections to identify issues before you give the car back.

‍

Why Fair Wear and Tear Guidelines Are Important

The fair wear and tear standards are designed to protect both the customer and the leasing company. Customers avoid excessive charges for normal ageing, while leasing companies maintain consistency in their expectations.

With a clear understanding of these standards, Lex Autolease customers can confidently lease vehicles knowing the return process will be fair and transparent.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How does Lex Autolease inspect returned vehicles?

Lex Autolease follows the BVRLA Fair Wear and Tear guidelines, employing trained inspectors to assess the vehicle against these standards.

2. Can I repair damages before returning my lease car?

Yes, addressing repairs before returning the car can save money. Just ensure that the repairs meet the leasing company’s standards.

3. Are tyre replacements my responsibility?

Yes, as part of routine maintenance, it is your responsibility to ensure tyres meet the legal tread depth requirements.

4. What happens if the vehicle exceeds wear and tear limits?

Excessive damage may incur charges to cover repair or replacement costs.

Conclusion

Fair wear and tear standards are designed to make the leasing process straightforward for customers like those of Lex Autolease. By following the BVRLA Fair Wear and Tear guidelines and maintaining your car throughout the lease term, you can avoid unnecessary charges and enjoy a hassle-free return experience.

Remember to download Caura to manage your lease in app.

‍