If you're approaching the end of a car lease in Mid Devon, there's one thing that could cost you a small fortune: damage charges. Lease companies inspect returning vehicles thoroughly, and any damage beyond "fair wear and tear" triggers excess charges — often at vastly inflated prices. The smart move is to get repairs done privately before the inspection.
What Lease Companies Charge for Damage
Lease return inspections follow strict guidelines (usually the BVRLA Fair Wear and Tear Guide). Here's what you could face in charges:
- Scratches longer than 25mm: £150 – £400 per panel
- Dents larger than 15mm: £150 – £350 each
- Bumper scuffs: £200 – £500
- Alloy wheel damage: £100 – £250 per wheel
These charges are typically 2–3 times what an independent mobile repair would cost. That's why getting damage fixed before your inspection makes financial sense.
What DentDash Can Fix Before Your Lease Return
DentDash's mobile lease return repair service covers all the common damage types that trigger charges:
- Scratch repair — light, medium, and deep scratches on any panel
- Dent removal — door dings, trolley dents, minor collision damage
- Bumper repair — scuffs, scratches, minor cracks
- Alloy wheel refurbishment — kerb scuffs, scratches, corrosion
- Paint correction — stone chips, faded areas
How Much Can You Save?
Let's look at a typical example. A lease return vehicle with one scratched panel, a bumper scuff, and two kerbed alloy wheels might face charges of £900–£1,200 from the lease company. The same repairs done by DentDash would typically cost £350–£500 — saving you £500–£700.
For vehicles with more extensive damage, the savings can be even greater. We've had customers save over £1,000 by getting their lease car repaired before the inspection.
When to Book Your Pre-Inspection Repairs
We recommend booking your repairs 2–4 weeks before your lease return date. This gives enough time to complete all necessary work and allows paint to fully cure before the inspector sees the vehicle. Don't leave it until the last minute — popular booking slots fill up quickly.
Our Coverage in Mid Devon
DentDash covers the whole of Mid Devon for lease return repairs, including Tiverton, Exeter, Crediton, Cullompton, Wellington, and all surrounding villages. We collect and return your vehicle, making the whole process hassle-free.
Get Your Lease Car Assessed
Not sure what needs fixing? Send photos of any damage via WhatsApp to 07572 114436. DentDash will assess each area and provide a clear quote showing exactly what needs repairing to pass your inspection — and how much you'll save compared to lease company charges.