What Happens at the End of a Lease? UK Return Guide
Updated October 2025 | Reading time: 7 minutes
Your lease is nearly up — what happens next? This quick UK guide explains the end-of-contract process, what “fair wear & tear” means, how mileage is checked, and the options you have to extend, upgrade or simply hand the vehicle back.
End-of-Lease at a Glance
- Inspection & collection arranged by the funder
- Fair wear & tear standard applied (BVRLA)
- Mileage compared to your allowance (excess charged per mile if over)
- Outstanding items (e.g., missing key, incomplete service) may be recharged
- Your choices: return, extend (if available), or upgrade into a new lease
Need personal help? Speak to our team.
Suggested Timeline
90–60 days before return
30 days before return
- Confirm collection date/time with the funder
- Resolve minor items (e.g., a smart repair, scuffed wheel, missing second key)
- Ensure the service schedule is up to date (where applicable)
7 days before return
- Remove personal data from infotainment / apps
- Gather all items: both keys, manuals, locking wheel nut, SD card if supplied, charging cable (EV/PHEV), service book/receipts
- Check tyres meet legal tread depth and are like-for-like
On the Day of Collection
- Give the car a basic wash so condition is visible
- Provide all keys and documents; remove personal belongings
- Accompany the inspector for a condition report and take photos for your records
Tip: If you disagree with any items on the report, note it on the day and contact us. We’re here to help.
Fair Wear & Tear: What Counts?
End-of-lease assessments follow BVRLA standards. “Normal” wear from careful use is accepted; damage (e.g., dents, deep scratches, cracked glass) may be recharged.
- Usually acceptable: small chips, light scratches that don’t expose metal, minor interior marks
- Potential charges: dents/creases, cracked screens/lights, deep paint damage, kerbed wheels across the face, torn seats
More on this standard: Using a BVRLA Broker
Mileage & Excess Mileage Charges
Your contract sets an annual mileage allowance (e.g., 8k/10k/12k per year). At return, the total recorded mileage is compared against your allowance. If you’re over, a pence-per-mile charge is applied by the funder.
Tip: If you expect to exceed mileage, speak to us earlier — an in-life mileage amendment (where available) can be cheaper than end-of-term excess charges.
Missing Items & Common Recharges
- Missing key: usually recharged at cost of replacement & programming
- Missed service: may result in a charge per the funder’s T&Cs
- EV/PHEV charging cable: treated like a missing component
- Aftermarket stickers / poorly removed tints: may count as damage
Always refer to your Terms & Conditions for specifics.
Your Options at End of Lease
1) Return & Walk Away
Hand back the car and finish the agreement. No resale hassle or depreciation risk.
2) Extend Your Lease (Subject to Funder Approval)
Many funders offer short extensions on similar terms — useful if you’re waiting for a factory order or comparing deals.
3) Upgrade into a New Lease
Most customers choose to upgrade. Explore:
In-Stock Cars,
Special Offers,
or Browse by Manufacturer.
End-of-Lease Checklist
- ✅ Book/confirm collection
- ✅ Complete servicing (as required)
- ✅ Fix simple cosmetic items if cost-effective
- ✅ Clean the car (inside & out)
- ✅ Prepare items: 2 keys, manuals, locking nut, service record, SD card, charging cable
- ✅ Remove personal data & belongings
- ✅ Photograph the car on handover
Need a Hand with Next Steps?
We can line up your replacement car so you’re never without wheels — including EVs for salary sacrifice.
Useful Pages
Conclusion
Returning a lease car is straightforward when you know what’s coming. Follow the fair wear & tear standard, keep on top of servicing, and have both keys and accessories ready. If you’re extending or upgrading, we’ll handle the timings so your changeover is seamless.
Plan Your Changeover with Silverstone
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be charged for minor scratches?
Light surface scratches and small chips are usually accepted as fair wear & tear. Deep scratches that expose primer/metal may be recharged.
Can I buy my lease car at the end?
With contract hire (PCH/BCH) there’s typically no ownership option. If you want to own a car, consider buying vs leasing or a finance product with purchase option.
What if I go over my mileage?
You’ll pay the excess mileage rate stated in your agreement. If you expect to exceed mileage, contact us early to discuss options.
Can I end my lease early instead?
Yes, but charges may apply depending on your contract. See FAQs and your Terms & Conditions.