When preparing to return a leased vehicle, damage costs are a key concern – particularly if you’ve had a minor prang, or your vehicle has damage to its bodywork. Damage costs can be an unexpected expense if you haven’t repaired any damage before returning your vehicle – but do you need to repair dents before returning a leased vehicle? In this blog post, we’ll explore this topic, highlighting what you need to know about damage repairs for leased vehicles and the benefits of completing them before returning your car.
Banish dents, scuffs, and other vehicle bodywork damage using quality dent removal and repair techniques with Storm Dents. We are your vehicle bodywork restoration specialists for a range of vehicles, from cars to commercial vans and trucks. For a FREE, no-obligation quote, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with Storm Dents today.
What can cause damage to vehicle bodywork?
Before we explore damage costs and repairs when returning your vehicle, let’s look at what can cause damage to your vehicle’s bodywork. There are so many reasons why you may need a specialist in vehicle dent repair. Fortunately, the technicians at Storm Dents are equipped with extensive knowledge and experience and can restore the affected area to its original condition. Here are some of the things that may cause damage to your vehicle’s bodywork…
- Bumper-to-bumper traffic.
- Minor accidents.
- Kerbing your vehicle.
- Falling debris such as trees.
- Stones from the road.
- Hail stones and other severe weather conditions.
If your vehicle has suffered any of the above, why not get in touch with Storm Dents today for a FREE, no-obligation quote? Repairing and restoring your vehicle’s bodywork to its original, factory finish is key in avoiding damage costs when returning your vehicle to a leasing company.
Understanding Vehicle Damage & When You Could Be Charged
Fair Wear and Tear
Vehicle leasing companies can be lenient when it comes to wear and tear on a leased vehicle. Normal or ‘fair’ wear and tear is typically expected when you have leased a vehicle for several years. The British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) determines what is considered wear and tear or damage. However, most vehicle leasing companies have their own standards. These are usually detailed at the start of the contract and can be found within your leasing agreement.
Fair wear and tear can include:
- Small light scratches (except where primer or bare metal is showing).
- Damage to the light lens, but not if the glass has been cracked and there is water ingress.
- Scratches to the windscreen that do not obstruct the driver’s line of vision.
- Light tyre wear, provided tyres meet UK legal requirements.
- Light staining to the driver seat area but no rips, holes or tears.
- Scuffs up to 25mm on alloy wheels.
The above are examples of ‘fair’ wear and tear and you shouldn’t usually be charged for any repairs. Please ensure that you thoroughly read your vehicle’s leasing agreement as standards for ‘fair’ wear and tear may vary depending on the leasing or financing company your vehicle is provided by.
Unacceptable Damage
If you return your vehicle to the leasing company with unacceptable damage, you could be liable for damage costs. Although investing in repairs might seem like an added expense, it is a smart move in the long run. We highly recommend repairing any damage to your vehicle in advance as many areas of damage could soon add up to expensive repairs and restorations.
Unacceptable damage could include:
- Dents, scuffs and scratches.
- Cracked windscreen.
- Stained or ripped upholstery.
- Smoking burns in seats.
- Tyres which are below the legal tread.
- Cracked and damaged alloy wheels.
- And more.
The above are examples of unacceptable damage and if you return your vehicle with any of these, you may be liable for damage costs. If you do have to pay for damages, the cost will vary depending on the vehicle size, damage type and severity of the damage.
How are vehicle cost damages decided?
When you return your vehicle to the leasing company, a qualified inspector will complete a full visual assessment of your vehicle’s condition. The inspection will note any damage deemed outside of fair wear and tear on a condition report, it will also detail the cost of repairing the damage. Once complete, the inspector will ask you to sign the condition report.
If you disagree with the final report, you will need to note the details of your disagreement on the document provided. Although this won’t remove or reduce the damage costs, it will prompt an additional review. During this process, a damage team will assess the damage to see if it matches the cost damage quote. If not, the costs may be removed, but if they decide that the damage does match the costs, you will be liable to pay for the penalties.
How To Avoid Damage Costs When Returning Your Vehicle
Paintless Dent Removal
There are several ways to avoid damage costs when returning your vehicle, particularly where your vehicle’s bodywork is concerned, but Paintless Dent Removal is by far the best. We have used this state-of-the-art method to restore vehicle bodywork for 19+ years and are committed to quality results. What’s more, we offer fully mobile vehicle dent repair so we can come to you at a time and place that’s convenient for you. Paintless Dent Removal is one of the most affordable and eco-friendly methods for restoring a vehicle’s bodywork. But what is Paintless Dent Removal?
What is Paintless Dent Removal?
Paintless Dent Removal (PDR) is an advanced method for removing dents, scuffs, scratches and more which doesn’t use paint or filler. This technique doesn’t impact any existing paint. We use specially designed steel rods to massage the damaged area of your vehicle from behind the damaged panel. With this technique, we can push out any dents for total bodywork restoration. PDR can be used on all vehicles where the car bodywork has dents and scuffs, but where the paint isn’t damaged.
The Benefits of Repairing Your Vehicle Before Returning It
When returning a leased vehicle, there are several desired outcomes, one of which is avoiding damage costs. Investing in repairing your vehicle’s bodywork comes with a range of benefits. Here are the benefits of repairing your vehicle before returning it to the leasing company…
- Avoid Expensive Penalties
As explained, leasing companies shouldn’t charge you for fair wear and tear, however, they are well within their rights to charge for unacceptable damage. Proactively addressing dents, scuffs and more ahead of returning your vehicle is much more cost-effective than waiting for their repair bill to come through. Protect your pocked with vehicle repairs.
- Safeguard Vehicle Resale Value
Properly addressing any vehicle damage ensures that your vehicle reaches its maximum resale value. Not only do these repairs meet leasing requirements, but your leasing company will be able to receive the full resale value when the vehicle is sold. This is also a great benefit if you own a vehicle and are selling it.
- Aesthetic Enhancement
Aside from the high-performance benefits that come with a leased vehicle, many vehicle owners enjoy a car that looks good. Repairing any dents and scuffs will contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal of your vehicle. Therefore, creating a positive impression during the final inspection process.
- New Lease
If you are returning your leased vehicle but are planning on leasing another, you will want to secure a smooth transition to your new lease. Ensuring that the vehicles you lease are in excellent condition when you return them is key to maintaining a good relationship with your leasing company, placing you in a favoured position.
- Cost-Effective
Whether you are about to return a leased vehicle or are at the beginning of your lease, addressing damages goes a long way in reducing future repair costs. Repairing minor damage before it becomes a major issue ensures that your investment is protected, both now and in the future.
In Conclusion…
Whether you are returning your leased vehicle or are planning on leasing another one, repairing dents before you return it is essential. At Storm Dents, we can restore your vehicle to its factory finish to ensure that your wallet is protected. Whether your vehicle has a minor dent, scratch, or scuff, we have the expertise and state-of-the-art technology to restore your car to its original glory. Let Storm Dents help you safeguard your investment and enjoy a completely hassle-free lease return. Save money in the long term, protect your reputation and foster a great relationship with your leasing company by repairing your vehicle before returning it. Repair and drive with confidence with Storm Dents and contact us today for a FREE quote.
FAQs
What areas does Storm Dents cover with its mobile car dent repair?
Storm Dents provides mobile car dent repair in Essex, Suffolk and the surrounding areas.
What types of dents can your car dent repair service handle?
Our vehicle dent repair can accommodate a range of dents and scuffs, from minor dings to major damages. Regardless of the dent size, we’re ready to restore your vehicle’s appearance.
Is the car dent repair done on-site or do I need to bring my vehicle to a workshop?
As a mobile car dent repair service, we come to you! We perform car dent repair at a location that’s convenient for you, be it your home, workplace or elsewhere.
How long does a typical car dent repair take?
The duration of car dent repair largely depends on the size and complexity of the dent. However, most repairs can usually be completed within a couple of hours.
Will my vehicle’s paintwork be damaged during the car dent repair?
Our team at Storm Dents uses a technique called Paintless Dent Removal (PDR), which carefully repairs dents and scuffs without harming your vehicle’s original paintwork.
Can you repair dents on any type of vehicle?
Yes, our car dent repair covers all makes and models of vehicles. From small cars to large commercial vans, we’ve got you covered.
Are minor scratches worth repairing before returning a leased vehicle?
Yes! Speedy repairs can prevent minor scratches from escalating into major issues. Plus, it helps you avoid expensive damage costs during the vehicle return process.
What if I discover damage during the pre-return inspection?
If you discover damage during the pre-return inspection, document any new damage immediately and report it to your leasing company. Addressing the issue promptly can mitigate potential charges.
How often should I inspect my vehicle for potential damage?
We recommend inspecting your vehicle regularly for potential damage, especially after long road trips and parking in crowded areas. Early detection allows for timely repairs and cost savings.
Are repairs covered by my lease agreement?
We recommend checking your lease agreement for specific terms regarding repairs. In many cases, the individual leasing the vehicle will be responsible for damages beyond normal wear and tear.
How much does car dent repair cost?
The cost of car dent repair can vary depending on the size and location of the dent. However, we strive to offer competitive prices. Contact us for a FREE, no-obligation quote.
Protect your investment and restore your vehicle to its former glory before returning it to the leasing company. Contact Storm Dents today for your FREE, no-obligation quote.
