We make it easy. Some tips for the smooth return of your BMW.
We want to ensure that your vehicle is in the best condition possible upon its return. Should you decide to return your BMW, we're here to help you make the process as easy as possible. We have clear and fair guidelines for the returning your BMW, and have summarised the key points below to ensure everything runs as smoothly as possible, including examples of what we consider to be fair wear and tear.
Good condition or needs repair?
What are acceptable signs of use?
These are light traces of normal use that do not negatively affect the overall visual appearance of the vehicle.
What are unacceptable signs of use?
Damage that has not resulted from normal vehicle use and has a negative impact on the overall visual appearance of the vehicle and/or effects its technical capability. Any damage that diminishes the value of the vehicle will be subject to charge.
Damage Visualiser for Exterior.
Our easy-to-use damage visualiser gives you an idea of what is and is not acceptable damage to the exterior.
Front bumper and flank protection.
Acceptable.
Light paint abrasion (mostly in the rounding area) or slight scratches which do not go completely through the paint and are shorter than 25 mm in length without paint damage – per part.
Unacceptable.
Ruptures, cracks and scratches > 25 mm except for the base material. Distortions that are visible from a normal viewing distance or where a component is not correctly affixed to the car.
Glass and lamps.
Acceptable.
Isolated stone chips (less than 25 mm) and/or chips outside the driver's field of vision. Scratches that are not noticeable from the specified viewing distance.
Unacceptable.
Fractures and/or cracks. Stone chips in the driver's field of vision. Broken headlights, taillights and housings. In the event that a windscreen is replaced, please ensure that only BMW Approved Windscreens are fitted (e.g. rain sensor on the windscreen).
Tyres and rims.
The following damage to wheels and rims, fall outside of acceptable fair wear and tear and may result in a charge:
Scuffs on alloy wheels that are longer than 50 mm or deeper than 16 mm. Damage to wheels, spokes and hub, sidewalls, tread, and rims. Wheels with a tread less than 2.0 mm. Tyres and rims that don't comply with the vehicle's recommendations. All tyres must be replaced with the same tyre brand and type; for example, run-flat tyres must be replaced with run-flat tyres, and not normal tyres. Tyres must meet the specifications as set out in the owner's handbook.
Body.
You may be charged for dents and scratches where:
There is a more serious dent over 15 mm, dents have broken the paint surface, or there are dents on the roof. You may also be charged if your scratches total more than 25 mm or have exposed the primer or metal underneath.
Paintwork.
You may be charged for scratches where:
The paint surface is broken and requires paint to be applied, or there is a colour mismatch between panels, or changes to the original vehicle colour. Decals or wrapping of vehicles should be removed on delivery or removed by BMW Authorised Repair Centre.
Rear bumper and flank protection.
Acceptable.
Light paint abrasion (mostly in the rounding area) or slight scratches which do not go completely through the paint and are shorter than 25 mm in length without paint damage –per part.
Unacceptable.
Ruptures, cracks, and scratches > 25 mm except for the base material. Distortions that are visible from a normal viewing distance or where a component is not correctly affixed to the car.
Damage Visualiser for Interior.
Our easy-to-use damage visualiser gives you an idea of what is and is not acceptable damage to the exterior.
Upholstery.
Acceptable.
Normal wear and tear on the floor covering and upholstery (light scratches and abrasions) due to normal use. Colour abnormalities that can be removed by professional cleaning.
Unacceptable.
Cracks, cuts, burn holes, singed areas, holes, breakages, etc. or deformations of moulded parts. Cracks or detachments from door and flap seals.
Mechanics.
Acceptable.
Normal wear and tear in accordance with vehicle age and mileage ensuring traffic and operational safety.
Unacceptable.
Due service not carried out according to the recommended service interval and the repair work resulting from the failure to do so. Damage or excessive wear and tear on the vehicle mechanical and electrical parts.
Electronics.
Acceptable.
Normal wear and tear in accordance with vehicle age and mileage ensuring traffic and operational safety.
Unacceptable.
Due service not carried out according to the recommended service interval and the repair work resulting from the failure to do so. Damage or excessive wear and tear on the vehicle mechanical and electrical parts.
BMW Return Guide in 2 Steps.
Step 1: Before the collection.
Please review the damage charge matrix to ensure you are aware of the sort of damage that may incur a charge.
If your car has been involved in an accident, you should have it repaired under your motor insurance policy before returning it to us. Any repairs must be in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations and you must tell us about any accident damage you've had repaired during the agreement.
You will need to ensure your BMW is taxed, insured and has a valid MOT (if appropriate) until the point we collect it. Please ensure the BMW is roadworthy with legal tyres and all lights working.
Step 2: The collection process.
The return process includes an inspection and collection at one appointment. The vehicle inspection is carried out by a trained inspector (in line with BVRLA Fair Wear and Tear Guidelines), followed by the driver collecting the vehicle.
Please ensure your BMW is returned as per the requirements in the return checklist. Once we receive the vehicle inspection report from the logistics company, we will check if the mileage on your car has exceeded the agreed limit. If it has, you will be invoiced at the pence per mile rate stated in your finance agreement.
We will also review any damage detailed on the inspection report and raise an invoice for anything that falls outside of the BVRLA Fair Wear and Tear Guidelines.
RETURN CHECKLIST.
Here's a useful checklist to help you avoid any unexpected charges when returning your BMW. Please ensure you have the following:
[1] Please note: You can return your BMW to your preferred BMW Retailer. Any equipment missing will be subject to charge. Any documents, spare parts and other components returned after settlement will not be considered. If the contract mile limit has been exceeded, an excess mileage charge per mile will be applicable.