Maintaining Your Lease Car – The No-Stress Guide

So, you've got yourself a shiny new lease car – nice. Whether it's a city-friendly runaround or a top-spec performance model, it's your job to keep it in decent shape during your contract.

Don’t worry, we’re not talking about anything intense – just the usual care you’d give any car to keep it running sweet and avoid any unexpected charges when it goes back.

Some of this depends on whether you’ve added a maintenance package to your lease – but either way, we’ll break it down step-by-step so you know exactly what’s expected.

Got a maintenance package? You’ve got it easy.

If you added a maintenance package to your lease, you're in luck – because most of the work is already done for you.

Just call your driverline number, book your car into a local main dealer, and turn up on the day. Whether it’s a service, tyre change, brake pads, or a bit of wear and tear, it’s covered. You just drop it off and collect it when it’s ready – no invoices, no fuss.

No maintenance package? No problem – just follow this guide.

If you’re managing the maintenance yourself, you’ve just got to be a bit more hands-on. Don’t stress – it’s mostly about keeping your car safe, roadworthy, and in line with your lease agreement.

Here’s what you need to know…

1. When does my lease car need servicing?

Most modern cars will give you a heads-up when a service is due – usually with a dashboard alert around 1,000 miles before it’s needed. If you don’t get a warning and you’re unsure, just call any main dealer, give them your reg, and they’ll let you know.

As a rule of thumb:
🛠️ Every 12 months or 12,000 miles – whichever comes first.

2. Do I have to use a main dealer?

In short, yes – unless your lease provider says otherwise.

Some finance companies (like Audi Finance, for example) insist on main dealer servicing. That way, they know the car’s being looked after properly, with approved parts and the correct tech.

🚗 Using a local garage? Check that:

• They’re VAT registered

• They use genuine manufacturer parts

• They update the service record with the manufacturer

Still unsure? Check the manufacturer’s website – they usually have a dealer locator to help you find your nearest approved centre.

3. What if my car is due a service when it’s going back?

If your car is due a service, it needs to be done before it’s returned – no exceptions. You don’t need to get one done just because you’re handing it back, but if the system or service history says it’s due, it must be completed.

Otherwise, you could face end-of-lease charges for a missed service.

4. What tyres do I need?

Not all tyres are created equal. If you need to replace them, make sure you’re using premium brands – that’s what your lease provider expects.

Stick to names like:
✅ Bridgestone
✅ Continental
✅ Pirelli
✅ Michelin
✅ Dunlop

Avoid cheap budget tyres – even if they seem like a deal. If you're unsure, give your finance provider or local dealer a call and they’ll confirm what’s suitable.

5. Do I need to top up AdBlue?

If you’re driving a diesel, then yes – AdBlue is your responsibility.

It’s a liquid that helps reduce emissions and keep your car’s engine running clean. You’ll usually get a warning when it’s running low, and topping up is cheap and easy. On average, 1 litre gives you around 350–500 miles.

You can pick it up from fuel stations, supermarkets, or garages – usually under the bonnet or near the fuel filler cap.

6. Should I be cleaning my lease car regularly?

Absolutely – not just to keep it looking nice, but to protect the paintwork.

💡 If dirt or salt sits on the paint too long (especially in winter), it can cause damage. That’s classed as neglect, and it might land you with a charge when the car goes back.

Quick wash every few weeks? You’re golden.

The bottom line

Maintaining your lease car doesn’t have to be a headache. Whether you’ve gone for the all-inclusive maintenance package or you’re keeping things DIY, a bit of care goes a long way in avoiding extra charges at the end.

Here’s the short version:

• ✅ Service your car on time (every 12 months or 12k miles)

• ✅ Use main dealers or approved garages with genuine parts

• ✅ Stick to premium tyres

• ✅ Keep AdBlue topped up if you drive diesel

• ✅ Give it a clean now and then to protect the paint

• ❌ Don’t return it overdue for a service

Got questions? Just drop us a message – we’re always happy to help you keep your car running like a dream.