Used Car Leasing: All You Need to Know

If you’re new to used car leasing, you’ll probably have a few questions, like “what is used car leasing?”, “is used car leasing affordable?”, and “what condition will the car be in?”

Don't worry, you're not alone. Used car leasing is a relatively modern product in the UK, and it can be a smart move if you want to cut your monthly costs while still driving a modern, reliable car. 

In this guide, we’ll explain how used car leasing works, what condition you can expect the car to be in, the key costs to factor in, and whether used car leasing is a good idea for your needs. We’ll cover:

Used car leasing is a long-term rental agreement that lets you drive a previously leased vehicle for an agreed period of time. 

You'll pay an initial payment upfront, followed by fixed monthly payments for the length of the contract. 

While the car won’t be brand new, it will be inspected, safety-checked and valeted before delivery, so it meets our required  minimum quality standards. 

Yes, you can absolutely lease a used car in the UK. 

In fact, it's become far more common since the pandemic, as more drivers look for lower monthly payments and quicker availability than a brand-new factory order. 

Used car leasing follows the same process as new car leasing: 

1. Browse our used car lease deals and choose your next car 
2. Pick your contract details such as length, mileage, and optional maintenance 
3. Apply for finance 
4. The vehicle is prepared and delivered 
5. Drive it, maintain it, and keep to the conditions of your agreement 
6. Hand it back at the end 

Used car leasing can be a good idea, as long as it suits your priorities. 

Used car leasing is a strong choice if you want: 

• You want lower monthly rentals (the biggest chunk of depreciation has already happened)
• You want a nicer car for your budget (your money can stretch further)
• You want faster delivery (used lease cars are already in stock)

It might not be a great fit if you: 

• Want the latest and newest tech 
• You want to be the first driver of the car

If you’d prefer a simple walk-through before you carry on, watch our used car leasing explainer video below:

• Often cheaper than a new lease 
• Wider choice than you'd expect, including popular body styles like SUVs and hot hatchbacks 
• Roadside assistance is available for a minimum of six months 
• Quick delivery as all used cars are already in stock 

• It's not brand new and minor wear and tear may exist 
• It will have mileage already (no more than 50,000 miles on the clock) 
• Maintenance can feel more important because you're running an older vehicle

Every used lease car is inspected, safety-checked, and valeted to meet strict BVRLA quality standards. We also ensure that each car meets our quality standards, which includes: 

• All tyres are safe and meet the UK’s MOT specification.
• If a service is required, it will be completed prior to delivery (only if it's needed within the next six months or 3,000 miles, whichever comes first). 
• Minimum of six months of MOT. 
• Safety checks and valeting to ensure cleanliness. 

All used lease cars leased through Nationwide Vehicle Contracts are:

• Under five years old
• Have no more than 50,000 miles on the clock 

The exact mileage will vary depending on the vehicle, but you'll always be told the mileage before ordering. 

As the same with new car leasing, you'll be responsible for routine upkeep to ensure the vehicle is kept in good condition throughout your contract. This includes tyre maintenance, battery and electricals, and exterior and interior care. 

Used car maintenance plans are available, which bundles servicing, tyres, MOTs and breakdown cover into one predictable payment. 

Service plans are also available, which ensures your car will be maintained by specialist mechanics at one of 16,000 approved garages.

If used car leasing sounds like the right fit, here's the easiest way to move forward: 

• Set your budget, then browse our Used Lease Deals to shortlist a few cars
• Choose a mileage that matches how you actually drive
• Decide if you want optional extras like a maintenance plan or service plan for extra peace of mind

If you’d rather talk it through, call our experts on 0345 811 9595 and we’ll help you find the right deal and support you every step of the way