Maintenance - What are the benefits?

 

What is a maintenance agreement?

A Maintenance Agreement - a Service, Maintenance & Tyres Package also known simply as 'Maintenance' or ‘SMT’ - is an optional service which covers a variety of costs associated with keeping a vehicle in roadworthy condition, in exchange for a fixed monthly cost that is combined with your vehicle rental agreement.

For example, when a vehicle inevitably needs new tyres, the driver only needs to arrange an appointment to get the replacements fitted to the vehicle. The full cost will be covered by the maintenance package provider to whom the monthly price is paid.

 

Why should I choose a maintenance agreement?

Your new vehicle must be regularly serviced and maintained in accordance with the Manufacturer’s recommendations. This is a requirement under the terms and conditions of your finance agreement to ensure that the vehicle remains reliable and roadworthy which is important for the safety of you, your passengers, other road users and pedestrians.

Maintaining a vehicle can be expensive, and it is important to budget for the cost of repairs and replacements, as well as for any unexpected expenses such as a puncture which could lead to a new set of tyres. Our maintenance agreements cover:

  • Routine servicing
  • Maintenance not covered by the manufacturer’s warranty (subject to fair wear and tear)
  • MOTs (if applicable)
  • Replacement tyres (subject to fair wear and tear)
  • Punctures

Please ask us for further information about what is and what isn’t included.

Taking out a maintenance agreement not only removes the timing of a nasty bill, it also enables easy budgeting by spreading the cost of repairs and replacements over the term of the finance agreement.

It often works out less expensive than arranging this yourself, as the finance companies have enormous buying power and negotiate strong discounts on parts and labour which they pass on to you.

Plus, there’s the convenience of having access to a dedicated booking team who will make all of the arrangements for your service and repair using a national network of approved garages offering the highest standards.

 

What if I exceed my contract mileage?

If you exceed your contracted mileage the funder may

a) continue to provide the service and charge you for the excess mileage as determined in your contract agreement or

b) decide not to continue to provide the service which will result in you paying for any subsequent servicing and repairs.

Please note that it may be possible to reschedule your contract if your mileage requirements change but you will need to request this and agree to any changes at least 6 months before the end of the contract to cover additional miles.

 

What if I don't want to take out a maintenance agreement?

If you decide to opt for a customer maintained agreement and manage your own maintenance costs, you must ensure that any service or maintenance is carried out in a timely manner by an approved dealership using genuine parts.

If you fail to service and maintain the vehicle in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations, you will be breaching the terms of your finance agreement and will be responsible to the funder for additional charges.