Drivers face unexpected end-of-lease repair costs
Industry data has revealed that drivers could face unexpected end-of-lease repair costs of more than £400.
End-of-lease damage charges have risen by more than £140 since 2015 to an average of £421 on average in 2025.
According to the British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association, fair wear and tear includes paint chips up to 3mm, dents up to 15mm and scuffs up to 25mm, but repair charges can be imposed for damage to wheel spokes or wheel fascia, corrosion or rust on wheels, or excessive body damage.
Mark Llewellyn, CEO of Revive! Auto Innovations, said: “Seeing unexpected fees relating to your old vehicle can really dampen the excitement of collecting a new car. But nearly half (48%) of all vehicles incur damage charges when they are returned to leasing companies.
“These costs can come as a real surprise to motorists, particularly when the damage involved is minor and may have gone unnoticed during day-to-day driving.
“Knowing that one in two cars will be subject to substantial End-of-Lease damage fees, it is particularly important that fleet managers and drivers perform their own assessments on their vehicles and get any damage taken care of prior to returning them to their providers.”
