Three Hints for Repairing Dents, Dings, and Scratches in Leased Autos |
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Patricia Lanford
December 18, 2012
If you have damaged your leased car, then you're probably a little bit worried about what that damage will end up costing you. If you return the car with the damage, at the very least, you're going to lose your deposit. However, you could end up losing more than that if the leasing agent feels that the deposit is not enough to cover the repair costs. You don't have to be out all that money, though. Below, you'll find three tips to help you repair the damage to leased cars so you don't have to lose your deposit or even more money.
First, you should contact a dent repair company where you are. If you are traveling, check to see if there is a mobile dent repair company that services the area. You might check with the concierge at your hotel to see if he can recommend a contractor. Check out a local phone book and see if anyone offers a mobile service. This is a better choice than driving around an area that you are not familiar with trying to find an auto body repair shop. If you have your leased vehicle in your home town, then you will have more options.
Second, only choose a contractor that will give you a free quote. You don't want to receive a bill after the work is done that is much higher than expected because of hidden fees. Ask if everything is included in the quote. There is nothing wrong with asking questions like this before the work begins.
Third, always be sure that whatever mobile dent repair work that is done on the leased car is covered by a guarantee. If the technician doesn't do a good job on the repair, you don't want to have to pay for the repair work again. You shouldn't have to, but if there was no guarantee, you may not have a choice. You may even have to take the car to another contractor. You're out a lot of time and money-- maybe more than if you'd just returned the vehicle with its damaged parts.
When you return your vehicle, you're under no obligation to tell the leasing agent about the damage if you had it repaired. If the work was done correctly, the leasing agent should not be able to see it, anyway. You'll get your deposit back and be on your way in no time at all.