Maintenance Guidelines

The specific wording surrounding this option is as follows:

“The ‘hirer’ accepts responsibility for all servicing, maintenance, tyres, warranty disputes and vehicle recovery. The ‘hirer’ will service and maintain the vehicle in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines, and will ensure that any mechanical or electrical fault is rectified immediately. The ‘hirer’ will also maintain and insure the vehicle as per the finance company’s terms and conditions.”

This basically means that the individual or company taking the contract will carry out routine maintenance at the manufacturer’s specified intervals, and it will be carried out to their specification. It means that tyres will be replaced when necessary and that if any issue surfaces (e.g. warning lights), it will be dealt with as soon as possible. Please note that unless stated otherwise, maintenance can be carried out at any reputable, VAT registered garage (e.g. ATS, Kwik-Fit). This means you don’t have to pay main dealer rates.

The specific terms for each finance company will vary slightly (e.g. emergency hire car duration), however these key points listed below are available through all of our finance partners:

✅ Servicing and associated parts (e.g. brakes, oil change, etc) 
✅ MOT if applicable
✅ Tyres (excludes vandalism and driver abuse)
✅ 24/7 Breakdown number
✅Enhanced breakdown cover with roadside repair, recovery, onward travel and emergency relief vehicle
✅ Maintenance booking facilities providing a collection and return service
✅ Mobile tyre replacement

✅ Fixed Monthly Cost – Spread vehicle care costs evenly across your lease
✅ No Surprises – Avoid unexpected repair bills
✅ Convenience – Access to a nationwide network of approved garages and services
✅ Peace of Mind – Keeps your lease and warranty compliant without the stress

A maintenance package is ideal if you:
✅ Drive high mileage annually
✅ Want predictable monthly expenses
✅ Prefer a hands-off approach to vehicle upkeep

⚠️ Please Note: Maintenance packages do not cover accident damage, insurance claims, or repairs due to driver misuse or vandalism.

Most modern diesel vehicles are equipped with Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF), AdBlue systems, or both. These technologies are designed to reduce harmful emissions and support environmental protection efforts. However, they do require specific care and maintenance from the driver.

Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)
A DPF is a component in the exhaust system that captures and stores harmful soot particles to prevent them from being released into the atmosphere.

To stay effective, the DPF needs to regenerate — a process where the filter heats up to burn off the trapped soot and convert it into ash. This typically occurs when the vehicle is driven at consistent speeds (around 50mph or more) for 15–30 minutes.

⚠️ Important:
• If regeneration doesn’t occur regularly, soot will build up and trigger a warning light.
• Ignoring the warning can lead to DPF blockage and vehicle damage, which is not covered under manufacturer warranties or maintenance packages.
• If you mostly drive short journeys or in stop-start traffic, this may be a concern — consider an alternative fuel type or hybrid/electric technology.

AdBlue System

AdBlue is a fluid used in diesel vehicles to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. Cars fitted with AdBlue will have a separate tank, usually accessed via a blue-capped filler neck, often located near the fuel cap or in the boot — the location varies by vehicle.

AdBlue is a consumable and is not covered by warranty or maintenance plans.

Key Points:
• A dashboard warning will alert you when AdBlue levels are low.
• You’ll have a countdown of miles remaining - if it reaches zero, the vehicle will not restart until AdBlue is refilled.
• Tank sizes can vary from 5 to over 20 litres, so be sure to top up accordingly.

Summary
• DPF and AdBlue systems are essential, but require proper usage and attention.
• Misuse or neglect can lead to costly repairs not covered under most agreements.
• If your driving habits don’t support proper DPF regeneration, you may want to consider a petrol, hybrid, or electric vehicle instead.