Returning your leased car doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. With the right preparation, you can avoid unexpected charges, save hundreds of pounds, and return your vehicle with complete confidence.

Whether it’s minor scratches, worn tyres or interior scuffs, leasing companies are strict about what counts as “acceptable wear and tear.” This guide breaks down everything you need to check and fix before handing back your car, helping you protect your wallet and your peace of mind.

1. Start with your lease agreement and wear & tear guidelines

Before you even lift the bonnet or check a tyre, read your lease agreement carefully. Every leasing company defines “fair wear and tear” slightly differently.

Key areas to focus on:

• Paintwork: Acceptable levels of chips and scratches.

• Wheels: Rules around kerb damage and scuffs.

• Tyres: Minimum legal tread depth and condition.

• Interior: Expected condition for seats, trim, and carpets.

Understanding exactly what’s acceptable gives you a clear action plan and helps you prioritise what needs fixing.

2. Inspect your vehicle like an expert

Exterior Checkpoints:

• Paintwork: Look for scratches, chips, dents or faded areas. Even minor paint damage can lead to costly penalties.

• Bumpers: Inspect front and rear bumpers for scuffs or cracks.

• Windscreen & Windows: Check for chips or cracks that could escalate into larger issues.

• Lights & Mirrors: Ensure headlights, taillights and side mirrors are free from damage.

Pro Tip: Inspect the car in natural daylight and use a torch at an angle to catch subtle dents or scratches you might otherwise miss.

3. Examine your alloy wheels and tyres

Wheels:

• Kerb damage? Deep scratches? Bubbling or corrosion?

• Consider professional wheel refurbishment if damage is visible.

Tyres:

• Tread depth: Must be at least 1.6mm across the central 75% of the tread.

• Sidewalls: Look for cuts, bulges, or cracks.

• Brand Matching: Some contracts require matching tyre brands across axles.

Pro Tip: Replacing worn tyres yourself is almost always cheaper than paying the leasing company’s inflated charges.

4. Deep dive into the interior

Leasing companies expect a clean, well-maintained interior that matches the car’s age and mileage.

Interior Inspection:

• Seats and Upholstery: Look for stains, burns, tears or heavy wear.

• Dashboard and Controls: Ensure everything works, buttons, lights, air conditioning, etc.

• Carpets and Mats: Clean thoroughly; replace mats if they are worn or stained.

• Boot and Storage: Remove all debris and personal items.

Small professional repairs for leather tears or dashboard scratches are affordable and can save you a lot of money.

5. Clean thoroughly, inside and out

A spotless car makes a strong first impression and can help hide very minor imperfections.

Checklist for Cleaning:

• Full vacuum, including under seats.

• Wipe down surfaces with appropriate cleaners.

• Deodorise the interior

• Professional wash and polish for the exterior.

Many leasing companies charge a hefty fee for “valeting” if the vehicle isn’t returned clean, so invest a little time or book a service.

6. Check for missing items

Missing accessories can cost you dearly.

Ensure you return:

• Both sets of keys

• Locking wheel nut key

• User manual and service records

• Spare wheel or tyre inflation kit

• Parcel shelf/boot cover

• Charging cables (for electric/hybrid vehicles)

Replacing these after return can be surprisingly expensive, so double-check everything now.

7. Confirm maintenance is up-to-date

Servicing and maintenance records are critical:

• Confirm all services are recorded and stamped.

• Ensure fluids (oil, coolant, brake fluid) are topped up.

• No dashboard warning lights should be on.

• Make sure the MOT is valid if required.

• Check that any outstanding recalls have been addressed.

Skipping servicing obligations often leads to significant end-of-lease charges.

8. Fix minor damage with mobile smart repairs

Minor scratches, dents and scuffs? Don’t panic.

SMART repair services offer affordable, high-quality repairs for:

• Paintwork scratches

• Bumper scuffs

• Alloy wheel kerbing

• Small dents

• Interior scuffs and tears

Mobile SMART repairs can save you 60–70% compared to dealer prices—and most repairs are completed in just a few hours at your home or office.

9. Schedule a pre-return inspection

Optional but highly recommended!

A pre-return inspection by an independent expert (or even your leasing company) can:

• Identify potential issues early

• Give you time to fix problems affordably

• Provide peace of mind for the final handover

Just make sure you understand if the inspection findings are binding or advisory.

10. Take photos and document the condition

Before handing over the keys:

• Photograph the entire exterior, wheels, and interior.

• Capture close-ups of any existing damage.

• Record the mileage and fuel level.

• Save all images with timestamps.

In case of disputes, having documented evidence could save you hundreds or even thousands of pounds.

11. Return the car and get written confirmation

• Return the car on or before the agreed date to avoid late fees.

• Ensure a full handover inspection is conducted.

• Get a signed receipt confirming the condition at return.

Keep all paperwork safely until the lease is officially closed and all final charges are settled.

Final thoughts: Preparation pays off

Spending a few hours properly preparing your car can save you a fortune in unfair end-of-lease charges. Follow this checklist, tackle minor repairs proactively and ensure your return experience is smooth, professional and stress-free.

If you’ve got bumper damage, chips, scratches or minor cracks, let us help you fix it the smart way  and get your pride and joy shiny and ready for a sale, looking as good as new.

Axioma – The Fair Repair Company

We are ready to help so get your free estimate today.