PCP Vehicle return guide

PCP ( Personal Contract Purchase ) offer an option for you to return the vehicle if you do not wish to purchase it, part exchange or arrange your own sale at the close of the PCP agreement.

If you choose to return the vehicle, the finance company will require the vehicle to be in good order and in a condition that is relative to the vehicles age and mileage, and serviced in accordance to the manufactures requirements. Fair wear and tear is acceptable but you may incur recharges for any items that are not classed as fair wear and tear.

Likely recharges are none fair wear and tear items that may negatively affect the vehicles  resale value, relative to the vehicles age and mileage, we set out to generalize what is acceptable fair wear and tear and what is unacceptable as follows and as recommended by the BVRLA in relation to contract end vehicle return. Vehicle return terms and conditions will be detailed on the relevant documentation appertaining to yours or your company’s agreement.

 Help and Guidance on Returning Your Vehicle

The car will be inspected at the end of the contract for any items that do not constitute fair wear and tear, and to ensure the vehicle is in an acceptable and legal condition. We set out to outline how you can assess your vehicle in advance, to enable you to prepare the vehicle ready for your PCP vehicle inspection.

 End of contract vehicle inspection guide.

It is advisable for you to consider your options on whether you want to return your vehicle at around 3 months before the end of your PCP agreement end if possible, this will give you time to agree and confirm your vehicle return and inspection arrangements, and give you time to consider all your options.

Cherished number plates

If you have assigned a cherished number plate - this should be removed by the end of the hiring period. It is advisable to allow at least 2 months before the end of the agreement to enable you to complete the relevant paperwork needed to ensure your cherished plate is placed on retention and the number plate issued is returned to the vehicle prior to returning the vehicle.

 Removal of non-standard equipment

Non-standard equipment will need to be removed and replaced with original equipment, any consequential damage arising from the installation of extras must be rectified at your own cost.

 Visible holes in body work

Visible holes in body work or trim must be repaired to the original standard at your own cost.

 Accident damage

If the vehicle needs to be repaired at any time whilst in your charge, it is advisable that you ensure that all general repairs and accident damage repairs are carried out at paint and bodywork shops recommended by the manufacturers main agents, that offer guarantees on the standard of there workmanship and the repairs, as poor repairs can be recharged if they are not to an acceptable standard.

Tyres

Worn or damaged tyres should be replaced with the original specification. The load and speed rating should also match and be as per the terms and conditions of your agreement.

 Service and maintenance

Throughout the contract period, the vehicle would need to be serviced and maintained at the manufacturer’s authorised repairer and in line with manufacturers service schedule as missing services and unauthorized dealer servicing can void the vehicles warranty’s as well as effect the vehicles resale value, resulting in penalty recharges.

 Carrying out your own assessment

Prior to carrying out your own assessment, it is advisable to ensure the vehicle is clean, both inside and out, prior to vehicle inspection.

 Standard Equipment

Vehicles should be returned with all original manufacturer extras including: Satellite navigation discs, CD cartridges, spare wheel, jack etc.

 Keys

Both keys should be made available at both inspection and collection. Any missing items will be charged and could prove costly.

 Documentation

You will need to ensure handbook packs and wallets including service book, and service history, are present; valid MOT (where applicable) complete with repair certificates and invoices should also be made available.

Most of what is required is good practice whether your vehicle is subject to a PCP agreement or not, as vehicles that are not cared for and serviced correctly, with unattended to damage to the interior or paint work would result in a financial loss on to the vehicles resale value.