All leasing finance companies will offer you a maintenance package option which gives you a fixed cost to keep on top of repairs, maintenance and servicing when it comes to your leased vehicle.
This can be a great option for some people but end up leaving others out of pocket. It can be confusing trying to decide if it is worth it for you or not, as there are many factors to consider. The guide below will try to help you make that a more straightforward decision.
What is a maintenance package?
Most lease providers will give you the option to take out a maintenance package. This offers a fixed cost for the general maintenance and servicing of your vehicle during your contract. This option is not mandatory, and you can opt to not add on this fee and pay separately for servicing and maintenance work.
What is included with a maintenance package?
Each leasing provider will have a slightly different variety of what is included in a maintenance package. Generally, the most common features are:
- Servicing: Covers all services in line with the manufacturer’s recommendation.
- MOT: New cars do not need an MOT for the first 3 years, however if you lease a vehicle over 36 months the MOT will need to be completed and this will be included.
- Oil and Brake Pads: Check-ups and top-ups of oil and brake pads are included as standard with every service.
- Breakdown Recovery: Generally the maintenance package will offer 24-hour assistance no matter where you are (it’s good to note, most manufacturers include this as part of the warranty).
- Tyres: Replacement tyres will now normally be included in the package as standard due to fair wear and tear (this is a recent change in the last couple of years). Some (not all) finance companies will also replace tyres due to punctures while some will only cover if the puncture can be repaired.
What isn’t included with a maintenance package?
Although a maintenance package will take care of most of the problems you face through wear and tear and the scheduled services, there are some limitations which you should be aware of. The following will not be covered:
- Repair work required due to driver error or an accident
- Missing or broken items
- Body and paintwork damage which is outside of fair wear and tear
- Stolen parts or vandalism
- Misfuelling damage
How much is a maintenance package?
Many factors within the lease agreement will impact how much the package will cost. The type of vehicle will affect the cost of repairs and servicing, e.g. Electric Vehicle servicing costs are lower than combustion engines. Additionally, brands such as Mercedes-Benz and BMW will have higher servicing costs than a SEAT or FIAT.
Also, a contract with higher mileage per year will affect the overall cost of the package. The higher mileage you are doing means the lease company will need to account for the higher likelihood for wear and tear issues on the car.
Should I get a maintenance package for my lease car?
If you have a higher mileage per annum (e.g. 15,000+ per year) taking a maintenance option can be a sensible option. As you’re doing more mileage on the car there is a higher likelihood you will have more wear and tear to pay for. We find that many people, even on lower mileages, like to take the maintenance package as it offers a totally fixed cost for the wear and tear costs over the term of the agreement.
However, all new vehicles are covered by their manufacturer warranty for at least 3 years. This covers you for unexpected electrical or mechanical problems and usually breakdown cover. If your lease contract is within this time frame and you follow basic maintenance procedures such as fuelling, oil checks and safe driving which reduces the chance of wear and tear, you may not see the benefit of a package.
The advisors at Pike + Bambridge can look at leasing options with and without a maintenance package. This will allow you to make an informed decision as to whether a maintenance package is suitable for you. You will not be sold into a product which isn’t in line with you needs.
