Returned Leased car

PierremontQuaker03

Just had quite a good experience with a leased car for 21 months until today, the day of returning the vehicle. I had it washed and valeted yesterday and all looked fine. There was the odd stone chip etc which I pointed out to the guy who was collecting it. I watched the guy spend half an hour examining the car in close detail. I knew he was looking for something to catch me out on, since this is the last chance they can get extra money out of me (apart from the excess mileage). It turns out, inside the rear passenger door on the car frame there was a scratch from the seat belt, which I had not noticed. You would not notice unless you were looking for it. He said the cost of repair was £152 but you can dispute it as general wear and tear.

I know the bill is coming, but I just did not realise how much they scrutinise the car that is being returned. I had looked after it very well, it was very obvious. He said the car is going to auction, therefore I doubt the purchaser would even notice the scratch. If I do get billed I am going to ask for evidence that it has been repaired as I do not believe they will repair it, I just think they want the money from me.

Anyway this has completely put me off leasing in the future. As it happens, the lease prices were out of my range this time, so I bought second hand and so pleased I did as I will not be leasing again going forward. Rant over.

Ectophile

They have no obligation to repair it.  If they intend to send the car to auction, they will charge you according to how much the damage will affect the auction value.