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Thinking about ending your lease early?
We understand your circumstances can change. Our lease agreements usually last three to five years, but we might be able to end your lease early in exceptional cases. These might include:
- Your mobility allowance has stopped or changed to a lower rate
- A significant change in your health or mobility needs
- Serious financial difficulties or other major life changes
We look at every request carefully and on a case-by-case basis. In some situations, we might suggest other options that could help, such as:
- Adding a different driver
- Making adaptations to your vehicle
- Using aids to help make driving easier
- Speaking to your managing dealer for advice
If you keep ending your agreements with us early, it can affect whether you're eligible to join the Scheme in the future.
Are there any costs?
If we agree to end your lease early, there are some things to be aware of:
- There’s a £250 administration fee. You’ll need to pay this when we agree to end your lease early
- You’ll continue to pay for your lease using your allowance until you return the vehicle
- You’ll need to contact Direct Line Motability (DLM) to fix any damage before you return the vehicle, and pay the insurance excess for the repair
- You will not get a Good Condition Payment
- We will not refund the cost of optional extras or adaptations
- You might have to pay for excess mileage
- If you paid an Advance Payment, you’ll get a partial refund, but only after you’ve returned the vehicle
- If you order another vehicle, you’ll need to pay the new Advance Payment before you get your vehicle
If your we end your lease because you've broken the terms of your agreement, there might be extra charges. You can see these in your written notice and your terms and conditions.
What happens when I return the vehicle?
If we agree to end your lease early, we’ll let you know where to return the vehicle. This is usually the dealer where you picked it up or your new dealer, if it’s a car or Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAVWheelchair Accessible Vehicle).
If it’s a scooter or powered wheelchair, we’ll arrange for someone to collect it from your home.
You’ll need to return it in good condition. And, depending on which vehicle you have, with all these accessories:
- All keys
- Parcel shelf
- Charging cable (if it’s an electric car)
- Tyre inflation kit
- Locking wheel nut key
- Manufacturer handbook and service record
We might charge you for replacing missing items.
Choosing the right vehicle for you
If you’re leasing another vehicle on the Scheme, it’s important you choose one that suits your lifestyle, needs and mobility. Not just for now, but throughout your lease.
The final decision is yours, so take time to feel confident in your choice.
Here are some things to consider before you apply:
- Think ahead: your needs may change, so it helps to plan for the full length of your lease
- Try different vehicles: test drive a few vehicles to help you find one that fits your day-to-day life
- Do your research: look at specifications, customer reviews and features to see what’s right for you
Choosing the right vehicle from the start helps you avoid issues later. If you’re unsure, your dealer can help you explore the best options.
Need to speak to us to talk about ending your lease?
If you think you might need to end your lease early:
- Contact us to talk through your situation
- We’ll ask you for some more details and might ask for proof
- We’ll look at your request carefully and let you know what we decide
Related FAQs
Leases generally run for three years from the date you got your car, or five years if you have a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAVWheelchair Accessible Vehicle).
You no longer need to have at least 12 months left on your allowance to apply for your next vehicle.
You can get a car from any manufacturer or dealer, as long as they’re Motability-accredited.
Yes – the dealer will take a brief description of your car’s condition when you hand it back.
If you decide you do not want to lease another vehicle at the end of your lease, you might have arranged a home collection with us.
