Is your lease contract ending soon? If you drive a car in Bognor Regis, Chichester, or West Sussex, you are probably anxious about collection day. You have likely heard the horror stories: a driver hands back their keys, only to receive a bill for £400 a week later because of "excessive wear and tear."
Leasing companies (like leaseplan, Arval, and VWFS) use strict guidelines to generate revenue at the end of a contract. If a scratch catches their fingernail, or if the paint looks dull and swirled, they will charge you for a full panel repair.
The Inspector's Secret: The BVRLA Standard
In the UK, inspectors follow the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) guidelines. They don't just "glance" at the car. They inspect it from two specific distances:
- The 2-Meter Rule: They walk around the car to look for major dents and color mismatches.
- The 1-Meter Rule: They step closer to inspect specific panels for scratches and swirls.
If they see damage that falls outside the "Fair Wear and Tear" definitions, you get charged.
Pass vs. Fail: The Comparison Table
Knowing the difference between acceptable wear and chargeable damage is crucial. Here is a quick breakdown of what usually passes and what gets fined.
| Issue | Allowable (Pass) | Chargeable (Fail) |
|---|---|---|
| Paintwork | Light surface scratches not visible from 1m. | Deep scratches (over 25mm) or bare metal showing. |
| Dents | Small dents (under 10mm) with no paint damage. | Dents over 10mm or multiple dents on one panel. |
| Wheels | Minor scuffing on the rim edge (under 50mm). | Spoke damage, corrosion, or deep kerb rash. |
| Interior | Normal wear on seat bolsters. | Burns, tears, stains, or bad odors (smoke/pets). |
The "Credit Card" & "Water" Test
How do you know if a scratch is too deep? Try these two simple tests at home before you call me.
1. The Fingernail Test
Run your fingernail gently across the scratch. If your nail "catches" or drops into the groove, the scratch is deep (through the clear coat). This usually requires wet sanding or touch-up.
2. The Water Test
Pour water over the scratch. If the scratch disappears when wet but reappears when dry, it is likely just in the clear coat. Good news: I can usually remove these completely with machine polishing.
The Cost Logic: Why Audit Before You Return?
Many drivers think, "I'll just let them charge me, it's easier." This is a costly mistake. Lease companies charge "book price" for repairs, which is often inflated.
- Lease Charge: £180 - £250 per panel for painting.
- AutoCar Valet Solution: A pre-return enhancement detail often costs less than the price of one penalty charge, yet we fix multiple panels.
How We Fix It: Machine Polishing
We don't use "fillers" that wash off in the rain. We use professional polishers to physically level the clear coat, permanently removing swirls, oxidation, and light scratches.
For deeper chips, we can apply color-matched touch-up paint to make them less noticeable to the inspector's eye.
When Should You Book?
Do not wait until the day before collection. We recommend booking your Pre-Return Audit 2 weeks before your car goes back. This gives us time to assess the car and perform the work without rushing.
Worried about your Lease Return?
I come to you in Bognor Regis and Chichester. Send me a photo of your damage, or book a full visual audit to save money on your return.
Book My Lease Audit on WhatsApp