I have written about why I plan to lease my next car.  But if you have decided to go down that route what do you need to think about.  So far, our experience of car buying is quite limited, since I have been with my current husband, we have bought a car second hand from family and then replaced that with our brand-new Skoda Octavia.  So, when the time comes to change that car I want to make sure I am fully aware of what to expect when leasing.

Take Care Of The Car

When you lease a car, the company will be expecting you take care of it.  So, if you have children make sure they are careful with the car too.  Our Skoda Octavia has stained sun cream handprints that won’t shift from the paintwork at the back of the car (the joys of kids hey!).  Likewise if you have a dog make sure it doesn’t ruin the seats with its sharp claws, scratching or tearing the leather.  Invest in a dog car seat cover.

The finance company might want issues like that sorted when the car is returned.  So, make sure you speak to the car leasing company and get a solid definition of what is included in reasonable wear and tear.

Shop Around

Look for offers so you get a good deal.  It’s a competitive industry and companies will be eager for your business.  Willow Car Leasing Offers seemed a sensible place to start.  I put in some details to see how much another Skoda Octavia would cost me.  The monthly rental was £249.82.  Given how our car is having a few maintenance issues which work out more expensive over the year I am tempted to get a newer model.

Think About Mileage

When you go through the process leasing a car you have to state your annual mileage.  This is so the company can calculate your monthly rental.  Check what happens if you go over this figure.  Ask how much the pence per mile calculation will be.  Companies will vary in what they charge.  The more miles on the car the quicker it depreciates.  The company will have already worked out what they can resell the car for when you finish your lease term.  They might have a tiered system, with it getting more expensive when you go over a set mileage.

Make Sure Your Aware Of All Charges

These can add up so make sure you have a good understanding of everything you are expected to pay.  Whether it’s an administrative fee for sorting out the paperwork or making sure you add VAT on to the rental if its not included in the price listed.

With enough preparation leasing a car doesn’t have to be a daunting process.