Lease Car Damage: Fixing Before Inspection in Greater Manchester

What do lease inspectors typically flag?

When you hand back a lease car, the inspector is checking for damage beyond normal wear and tear. In our experience, the most common issues are:

• Kerbed alloy wheels
• Bumper scuffs and scrapes
• Dents and dings on body panels
• Stone chips on the bonnet, wings and bumper
• Scratches that have broken through the paint

These are the things that tend to get noted and can lead to charges. The inspector will compare the car against the lease company's fair wear and tear guidelines, so it helps to know what they're looking for.

Which damage is worth repairing before collection?

Not every mark will be charged for, so it's worth being strategic. Here's our take on what's usually worth fixing:

• Kerbed alloys: Yes, almost always worth repairing. Kerb damage is easy to spot and commonly charged for.
• Bumper scuffs: Also worth fixing, especially if the scuff is deep or on a corner. These are flagged regularly.
• Dents: If the dent is noticeable and on a visible panel, get it repaired. Paintless dent removal can be quick and cost-effective.
• Stone chips: Small chips on the front end are often acceptable if they're minor, but larger chips or clusters can be flagged. A smart repair can tidy them up.
• Scratches: If you can feel the scratch with your fingernail, it's likely to be flagged. That's when you should consider a repair.

If you're unsure, it's better to ask. We offer free, no-obligation quotes and can tell you whether a repair is worth doing.

How do you time the repair before inspection?

Timing is important. You want the repair done close enough to the inspection that no new damage occurs, but with enough time to spare if anything needs a follow-up.

We suggest booking your repair a few weeks before your inspection date. That gives you a buffer in case of any scheduling issues. Many SMART repairs are finished in around two hours, so you won't be without your car for long. For work that needs a booth, our Radcliffe body shop can handle it, and the same team works both mobile and in the shop.

If you're in Greater Manchester, Lancashire, Cheshire, Merseyside or West Yorkshire, we can come to you. Our mobile service covers those areas, so you can have the repair done at home or work.

What's the process for getting a quote?

It's straightforward:

1. Send us photos of the damage with your enquiry. This helps us give you a faster, more accurate quote.
2. We'll reply within 24 hours with a free, no-obligation quote.
3. If you're happy, we'll book you in at a time that suits you, either mobile or at our Radcliffe body shop.

We've been trading since 2008, and every repair carries a guarantee. You can find us at Unit C, The Yard, Rear of Constellation Mill, Radcliffe, M26 4AD. We're open Monday to Friday 09:00 to 20:00 and Saturday 09:00 to 16:00. Closed Sunday.

Why fix before the inspection?

Lease companies charge for damage that's beyond fair wear and tear. By repairing common issues like kerbed alloys and bumper scuffs beforehand, you can avoid those charges and hand back a car that's in good condition. It also gives you peace of mind.

We're not saying every tiny mark needs attention, but the ones we've listed are the usual suspects. A quick repair now can save you hassle later.

Get a free quote

If you're handing back a lease car in Greater Manchester or nearby, and you're not sure what needs fixing, send us some photos. We'll give you an honest opinion and a free quote, no obligation. Just use the contact form on our website to get in touch.