what happens when I return my lease car

What happens when I return my lease car?

All good things must come to an end, and at some point you will have to return your lease car. But, what actually happens when your lease car is due to go back?

You might currently be approaching the end of your lease contract or you may just be curious as to what happens when the time comes to return your lease car, either way, it’s important to know the process so you can be fully informed for when the time comes.

So, in this article we’re going to cover what happens at the end of your lease contract including the inspection and whether you can extend your lease contract.

What happens when I return my lease car? Read More »

volocopter-2x-multicopter-designboom-04-06-2017-818-006-818x460

The Flying Car that could be available for purchase this year

It’s something you thought you’d only see in utopian sci-fi movies but later this month the first ever production-ready flying car is due to be shown at the most exclusive supercar show in the world, the Top Marques Monaco.

The vehicle was first revealed as a concept back in 2014 and has been built by AeroMobil, a Slovak pioneering company. The vehicle is fully functional as both an aeroplane and a four-wheel car and is powered by hybrid propulsion with the wings sweeping back against the body when it is in driving mode. The vehicle is alleged ‘production ready’ with motor authority reporting that it has a Rotax 912 four-cylinder air-cooled engine with 100 horsepower and a top speed of 124mph in the air. On the road it can supposedly reach 99mph with a mpg of 35.3. Apart from that, technical details are slightly thin on the ground. However, we expect more details to be revealed closer to the show.

The Flying Car that could be available for purchase this year Read More »

a silver car crashing into the back of a red car with two men in shirts and trousers at the scene

Getting a new lease vehicle after an accident

Accidents happen. And sometimes, accidents happen in a lease car. What do you do?

Obviously when you have an accident there are different severities. You could be involved in a small accident where your car is bumped or dented slightly, or you could end up writing the vehicle off. Regardless of how big or small your accident is, there is a process that you have to follow and it’s important that you know exactly what to do should your lease car be in an accident.
We at OSV don’t tend to deal with this directly. We aren’t the owners of the vehicle and once your car is delivered and the agreement activated, there is little we can do. However, we are there for you throughout the whole leasing journey including the duration of the agreement so we do advise our customers on what to do in this situation. Which is why in this article we are going to talk about what happens if your lease car is in an accident, and what to do should you need a new lease vehicle.

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Renault Clio

What is the best car for a new driver?

You’ve passed your test! All that hard work has finally paid off and now you’re looking at a brand new set of wheels. But, which car do you choose? There are so many different cars around these days, and there are loads that could make a great first car, but which ones are the best? In this article, we take a look at the best cars for a new driver and our top tips for choosing the best…

What is the best car for a new driver? Read More »

Review Of The 2017 BMW Alpina Range

BMW Alpina Range

Fancy a bit more exclusivity from your car? BMW’s Alpina range is a good place to look. They’re basically factory BMW’s but with more trimmings – such as more pace, more performance, more style, and more desirability.
And just in case you didn’t know, Alpina is the BMW-based manufacturer that’s been sprinkling fairy dust on the German brand’s cars for over half a century. In this unique article, we’re going to take a look at four of their recent releases…

BMW Alpina Range Read More »

printed credit report with a score of 425 and a rating of poor

Why can’t I get car finance?

When you apply for car finance, there could be a chance that you could be denied. This could be for a number of different reasons and it’s important that you are aware of these reasons so you fully understand why you might be rejected for car finance.

In this article, we’re going to look at why you might not be able to get car finance and potential solutions or alternatives to car finance. Whether you have recently been denied car finance or simply curious as to why you might be rejected for car finance, hopefully, this article will answer all your questions.

Why can’t I get car finance? Read More »

mercedes a class review

Mercedes-Benz A Class Hatchback Review

The new Mercedes A Class Hatchback can boast low running costs, despite being a premium hatch. However, the style will polarise, while the strangely subdued interior is cause for concern. There aren’t many premium family hatchbacks on the market at the moment, and this Mercedes is vying for your cash alongside its usual two German rivals, as well as the Infiniti Q30.

Mercedes-Benz A Class Hatchback Review Read More »

girl in car, holding out driving licence with a thumbs up - First Car

Can I lease a car without a driving licence?

There may be a time when you need or want to lease a car. However, you don’t have a licence. Are you able to lease a car without a driving licence? It’s not something that happens often, but it has happened in the past. So, in this article, I’m going to talk about whether you can lease a car without a driving licence, and what your options are if you cannot. No, is the short answer. The likelihood is that you will struggle to find a finance house, dealership or broker that will allow you to lease a car without a driving licence. There may be some out there, but these will most likely be specialist vehicle broker and you should be extra careful that they are reputable.

Can I lease a car without a driving licence? Read More »

man in a suit replacing a registration plate on a red car

Can I add a private plate to my new lease car?

We answer a lot of questions about leasing at OSV ranging from the start of your leasing journey to the very end. One of the questions we get asked quite a bit is in regards to private registration plates. When you lease a car you might want to add your own, personalised registration plate. In this article, we take a look at whether this is possible and how to go about it.

Can I add a private plate to my new lease car? Read More »

Can a Lease Car be Insured in Someone Else’s Name

Can a lease car be insured in someone else’s name?

There might be a scenario in which you want to lease a car for somebody else. This isn’t a problem and is something that quite a few people end up doing, be it for their partner or their child or even their friend. The only problem is the issue of insurance. Can a lease car be insured in someone else’s name other than yours?
In this article, we look at whether insurance is included in a lease contract, whether you can lease a car and insure it in someone else’s name, and whether you need a certain type of insurance on a lease car.

Can a lease car be insured in someone else’s name? Read More »

2017 BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo Hatchback front

2017 BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo Hatchback vs Audi A7 Sportback vs Mercedes CLS Saloon: Comparisons & Review

Looking for an objective review of the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo Hatchback? OSV have got you covered, from engines to lease deals.

Rarely do you come across a one-of-a-kind car at this price point. But that’s exactly what the new BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo Hatchback is. If you want something versatile, something huge, something luxurious, something different, this is a great place to start your search.

Essentially a bigger, more family-friendly version of the 5 Series exec saloon, this GT is softer, positions you higher up, and has a more usable boot. It’s well-equipped, and represents an interesting alternative to a conventional SUV. The best thing? It’s probably BMW’s most comfortable car to date.

OSV takes a closer look at what it’s all about with our 2017 BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo Hatchback review.

2017 BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo Hatchback vs Audi A7 Sportback vs Mercedes CLS Saloon: Comparisons & Review Read More »

Black cabs

Can I use my lease car as a taxi?

It’s a question we don’t get often, but it does get asked. You may be a taxi driver, or just starting out as one and you’ve seen how cheap car leasing can be. So, can you take advantage of this and use a contract hire car as a taxi? Well, yes and no. In this article, we’ll look at whether you can use your lease car as a taxi. In some circumstances yes.

The chances are, you will not be able to get a lease car through your average vehicle broker. There are companies that specialise in leasing cars for taxis. In my time at OSV (almost three years) I have only come across one manufacturer that has sent through deals specifically for private hire cars.

However, that’s not to say you can’t. You just have to go through a company that specialises in leasing for taxis.

Can I use my lease car as a taxi? Read More »

Grey Renault Kangoo ZE Charging

How does van leasing work?

When we talk about leasing we tend to think of cars, either company or personal. And while cars are the most commonly leased vehicle, vans are often overlooked. You can lease vans as well, and leasing a van is a very viable option for many.

The premise is the same as leasing a car but there are some key differences, particularly when it comes to business leasing.

In this article, we’re going to cover everything you need to know about van leasing, from the different contracts to the benefits.

How does van leasing work? Read More »

2017 BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer front

2017 BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer vs Toyota Verso Estate vs Toyota Prius + Estate: Comparisons & Review

Looking for an objective review of the BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer? In our review, OSV has got you covered with engines and lease deals.

If you want seven seats and still want to look good, the slick new BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer allows you to do just that. It’s for families who want to combine usability with desirability, and who fancy something a bit more upmarket to another Toyota. But can it capture your imagination more than the usual family favourites in this class?

BMW are still new to the MPV market, but you wouldn’t know it – their offerings are as useful and classy as anything else on the market right now. They’ve currently got a pair of MPV’s on sale, with this seven-seater being the bigger of the two. It’s powerful, practical and upmarket. But despite all this, it’s still got a family-friendly price tag.

OSV takes a closer look at what it’s all about with our 2017 BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer review.

2017 BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer vs Toyota Verso Estate vs Toyota Prius + Estate: Comparisons & Review Read More »

What should I do if my lease car fails its MOT or needs repairing

What should I do if my lease car fails its MOT or needs repairing?

Taking care of your lease car is a huge part of having a lease car. But there may be times when you will need to get your car repaired. Perhaps it’s been damaged, or in an accident, or it might have even failed its MOT.

What do you do in that situation?

In this article we are going to talk about what happens if your lease car fails its MOT and what happens if you need to have your lease car repaired.

What should I do if my lease car fails its MOT or needs repairing? Read More »

One-off Rolls-Royces designed by Rock Royalty

One-off Rolls-Royces designed by Rock Royalty

Rock and Rolls-Royce? The luxury brand have teamed up with British icons to create one-off vehicles that celebrate “the illustrious career of a British pop and rock legend”.

Each of the musicians included were personally involved with the design of their Wraith to create a piece of memorabilia unlike no other.

So, who was involved? Don’t worry, we aren’t going to show you a picture of a Wraith designed by James Blunt, Rolls-Royce have chosen some of the greatest music legends to come out of our small Island.

One-off Rolls-Royces designed by Rock Royalty Read More »

What is a log book

What is a log book?

When you get a new car there are so many words and phrases that are thrown about that it can get very confusing and at times, overwhelming.

However, it doesn’t have to be confusing or overwhelming, which is why we write these articles. We want everything to be as smooth and as uncomplicated as possible for you.
And one of the questions that we get a lot at OSV is ‘what is a log book?’ so in this article we are going to cover what a log book is, what its purpose is and why it’s important. It should be noted here that the log book also can be referred to as the V5. As such, we do tend to say log book more than V5 in this article but just to make you aware that the two are interchangeable.

What is a log book? Read More »

2017 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo Hatchback front

2017 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo Hatchback vs BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe vs Audi A5 Sportback: Comparisons & Review

Looking for an objective review of the BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo Hatchback? OSV has got you covered, from engines to lease deals. The new BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo Hatchback is big, comfy and performs like a stallion. What’s not to like for families who want road presence to go with usability? The name itself is a bit exotic. However, BMW hasn’t messed around with this one and it pretty much is what it says on the tin: A large hatchback that comes with lots of space. Leg and headroom is good up front and in the back, 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats are standard across the range, and the car handles as well as you expect a BMW to handle.
OSV takes a closer look at what it’s all about with our 2017 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo Hatchback review.

2017 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo Hatchback vs BMW 4 Series Gran Coupe vs Audi A5 Sportback: Comparisons & Review Read More »

picture of an orange SOS telephone on the side of a motorway with a lorry coming towards it

What do I do if my car breaks down?

Did you know that there are 4727 breakdowns a day in the South East? There are only 554 in Wales, but that’s still a hefty number.

Anyway, your car breaking down is not ideal but as the statistics above show, it’s pretty common. And, it could happen to you at any point.

Therefore, it’s important that you are prepared in the event of your car breaking down. So in this article we are going to cover what you should do if you break down on different roads, what you should keep in your car in the event of a breakdown and whether you should look at breakdown cover.

What do I do if my car breaks down? Read More »

Mercedes GLE Review

Review Of The Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV: Features/price/comparison

The Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV joined the brand’s large SUV car range in 2015. Essentially a rugged off-roader, it’s based on the Mercedes E-Class. More stylish than the outgoing M-Class SUV, it’s well equipped and can easily accommodate five people. If you’re on the lookout for a contemporary SUV, the GLE is an attractive proposition. Swooping curves and lines give it a very slick modern aesthetic, while advanced technology also helps to bring it in line with its forward-thinking rivals. The engine range is also more efficient. OSV takes a closer look at what it’s all about with our Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV review.

Review Of The Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV: Features/price/comparison Read More »

Lady looking back from the steering wheel smiling - First Car

New first car vs. used first car

You’ve passed your driving test – congratulations! Now, all you need is a car.

You’ve probably already thought about what car you’re going to get and, correct me if I’m wrong, but you may have already resigned yourself to the fact that you will be getting a used car. Am I right?

But that might not be your only option, and it certainly might not be the best option either.
In this article, we’re going to look at which is better; a new first car or a used first car. We’ll look at the pros and cons of each, and what options are available to you.

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A Brief History of Audi

A brief history of Audi

Audi is one of the best-selling luxury automobile manufacturers in the world. However, the origins of the German brand are complex and colourful, to say the least.

Behind the name of every car company, there’s a story. Sometimes it’s as simple as the name of the family who founded it (Bentley, for example), sometimes it’s an acronym for a phrase people don’t seem to remember. The story behind Audi, however, is that little bit more interesting. OSV takes a look at the rich history of the German brand in our Audi history.

A brief history of Audi Read More »

SsangYong Rexton Revealed

The Next Generation SsangYong Rexton Revealed

It was teased last week, and now the next generation Ssang Yong Rexton has finally been revealed. This is ahead of its public debut at the upcoming Seoul Motorshow in 2017.
The new Rexton shares a lot of its design with the LIV-2 concept. However, there are notable changes to the bumper, headlamps as well as black body cladding as opposed to body-coloured cladding on the concept car.

The Next Generation SsangYong Rexton Revealed Read More »

Numberplate - NEW

How does car registration work?

One of topics we get asked about quite a lot at OSV is car registration. How does it work? Who is responsible for it? How do I know if my car is registered?

And all of these questions are completely valid. Out of all the things related to cars, leasing and buying, car registration is a topic that tends to be forgotten or ignored. Until now, of course.
In this article, we’re going to talk you through everything to do with car registration. From how it’s done, what happens if you can’t find it registered, to how to put a private plate on a car.

How does car registration work? Read More »

How to Maintain Your Lease Car

How to maintain your lease car

When you have a lease car, you have to take care of it and you have to maintain it. At the end of your lease agreement, your car will undergo an inspection. This will be for any damage that doesn’t constitute as fair wear and tear.

If there is any damage that doesn’t qualify as fair wear and tear, then you will face extra charges.
However, there are ways to avoid this happening, and in this article, we’re going to look at the best ways to maintain your lease car.

How to maintain your lease car Read More »

Mercedes SLC Roadster Review

Mercedes-Benz SLC Roadster Review 2017

If you want a folding hard-top that has a prestigious image, a posh cabin and is easy to drive, the new Mercedes-Benz SLC Roadster is worth your attention. Oh, and it’s also devastatingly quick. But you probably already expected that, right? And if economy is a priority of yours as you shop for a roadster in 2016, the SLC ticks that particular box, too. Moreover, depreciation is much improved. This stylish Roadster has broad appeal and with prices starting out from just £30,000, there is no reason why it can’t dominate its sector. OSV takes a closer look at what it’s all about with our Mercedes-Benz SLC Roadster review.

Mercedes-Benz SLC Roadster Review 2017 Read More »

Brief History of Land Rover

A brief history of Land Rover

Land Rover is an iconic British car, so much so that King George VI granted Land Rover a Royal Warrant in 1951.

So yes, the Land Rover is as historically British as they come, but how did they become the iconic British manufacturer we know and love today?

In this article, we take a look at the interesting history of the Land Rover, from the Series I to…pushchairs.

A brief history of Land Rover Read More »

History of SEAT

A brief history of SEAT

Although it is an impressive 67 years old, SEAT is one of the younger car manufacturers, and its sporty cars show that it has no plans to slow down. Popularity for SEAT has grown and grown and seeing a SEAT on the road in the UK is as common as seeing a Golf or a Focus.

But, how did this come to be?

In this article, we look at the interesting history of the Spanish manufacturer.

A brief history of SEAT Read More »

Ford Skyliner in a monochromatic photograph

A brief history of Ford Motor Company

Ford are the world’s fifth largest automaker in the world (based on worldwide vehicle sales). Ford is also the largest family-controlled company in the world as the Ford family have controlled the company since its founding over 110 years ago. But how did Ford survive two world wars and a Great Depression? In this article, we take a look at the rich history of one of the most well-known car manufacturers in the world…

A brief history of Ford Motor Company Read More »

Review of the porsche 911 targa 4

Porsche 911 Targa 4 Review

The whole 911 range has been revised to include energy-saving turbochargers, but it’s the new Porsche 911 Targa 4 that’s arguably best suited to the controversial new turbocharged 3.8-litre engine. Just as gutsy as its naturally-aspirated predecessor, it’s not lost any performance but has gained an edge over its rivals by virtue of the fact that it’s now more efficient and more economical.

Porsche 911 Targa 4 Review Read More »

girl in car, holding out driving licence with a thumbs up - First Car

How to apply for a driving licence

Driving for the first time is an exciting prospect. What is your first car going to be? How will you afford it? How much will the insurance be?

And while all these questions are very important, there is one thing that is considerably more important.

Actually learning to drive in the first place. So, in this article, we are going to look at everything you need to know about learning to drive, from applying for a licence to how much your tests will cost.

How to apply for a driving licence Read More »

car finance on someone else's behalf

Can more than one person drive a lease car?

There are quite a few common misconceptions about leasing, and one of those is that the only person that can drive a lease car is the one who is leasing it.

However, it’s our job to put these misconceptions right and explain that this in fact, is not the case.
So, in this article, we are going to look at whether someone else can drive a lease car, whether someone else can be insured to drive your lease car, and how to go about it.

Can more than one person drive a lease car? Read More »

young mother fitting her young child in a carseat

The new child seat laws 2017

As of March 1st there were some changes to the laws regarding children’s car seats. Of course, this is vital information and it’s really important that you know this so you can make the necessary changes. But, what are the new changes? In this article, we look at the new changes to the car seat laws, how to fit a child seat and why you shouldn’t buy a 2nd hand car seat…

The new child seat laws 2017 Read More »

Renault uncover their Captur facelift

Renault uncover their Captur facelift

On March 7th at the Geneva Motor Show, Renault unveiled their face-lifted Captur to much excitement. The new Captur comes with a higher level of specification and updated styling.
The interior has also got a bit of an upgrade with a new Signature S trim level being added that comes with a newer R-Link infotainment system.
The Renault Captur is the best-selling B-segment crossover in Europe and has understandably had a few adjustments to keep it fresh and exciting. There are now an additional two colours to choose from, Desert Orange and Ocean Blue, as well as a new roof colour while the Captur will still keep its two-tone option. Like the other new Renault models, the new Captur will get full LED headlights as an option with LED daytime running lights as well, which form a C-shape motif. The skid plate, as seen on previous models, has been revised…

Renault uncover their Captur facelift Read More »

Porsche Unveil Their Big-Booted Panamera

The Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo concept was first unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in 2012, and at the Geneva Motor Show this year we finally get to see the final product…and it’s pretty similar to the concept.
There could be a chance that families driving the Panamera might have a gripe that it just doesn’t have enough space. These families might end up looking elsewhere for something slightly on the larger side. Well, to stop that happening Porsche have unveiled a larger version of the Panamera, the Sport Turismo.
At first glance, it doesn’t look much bigger, and that’s because the wheelbase, the length and the width remain unchanged. So, what’s different?

Porsche Unveil Their Big-Booted Panamera Read More »

people at a dealership discussing new car purchase

What options do I have if I want to own my car at the end of the agreement?

The best thing about financing a car is that you have so many options. There are agreements to suit every person, from business leasing to hire purchase, there’s an agreement for everyone.

But, what options do you have if you want to own your car at the end of your agreement?

In this article, we look at the different options available to you if you want to own your car at the end, and the pros and cons of each.

What options do I have if I want to own my car at the end of the agreement? Read More »

Time Barnes standing near a ford fiesta ST line

A Massive Review of the Ford Fiesta ST-Line: Features/Prices/Comparison

You’d think Ford would be satisfied by having the best-selling car in Britain on its books. The Fiesta can simply do no wrong it seems, but Ford isn’t resting on its laurels and has introduced the Ford Fiesta ‘ST-Line’. ST-Line offers the sporty, desirable image of the heralded ‘ST’ hot-hatch, but with better running costs and a little bit more comfort. ST-Line models are a special trim level from Ford. The cars are brawny looking, but are they as powerful as their appearances suggest? Our motoring journalist, Tim Barnes-Clay, got behind the wheel of the Fiesta ST-Line to discover more…

A Massive Review of the Ford Fiesta ST-Line: Features/Prices/Comparison Read More »

2017 nissan gtr coupe front pic

Massive Review Of The Nissan GTR Coupe: Features/ Prices/ Comparisons

Looking for an objective review of the Nissan GTR Coupe? OSV has got you covered, from engines to lease deals.

The barnstorming new Nissan GTR Coupe is a car that will make you feel supersonic. Ferocious, confident and visually striking, it’s a car capable of humbling even the sportiest Porsche.

For hardcore enthusiasts who want to chuck caution (and everything else) to the wind, this tornado with an engine is worth a look.

One of the quickest cars on earth, the new GTR feels as though it’s been injected with rocket fuel. It might not be super car aristocracy, but if the thought of getting behind the wheel of a monstrous upstart that is here to challenge the status quo of super cars appeals to you, join OSV as we take a closer look at what the new Nissan GTR Coupe is all about.

Massive Review Of The Nissan GTR Coupe: Features/ Prices/ Comparisons Read More »

Toyota Verso Review

Massive Review Of The Toyota Verso

The new Toyota Verso is an MPV that offsets its relatively high purchase price with family-friendly running costs. It’s practical, reliable and well-built. In many ways, it’s the essential car for modern families in 2017. The ability to fit seven people is one of this cars strengths. It’s not the best looking MPV on the market, but it’s usable and thoroughly accomplished and won’t give you any hassle as you carry out your chores on a full or light load. OSV takes a closer look at what it’s all about with our Toyota Verso.

Massive Review Of The Toyota Verso Read More »

A Brief History of Volkswagen

A brief history of Volkswagen: From the people’s car to the emissions scandal

Of the ten top selling car models in history, three are Volkswagen; the Beetle, the Golf and the Passat. Not one for fancy branding strategies, the current VW tagline is simply “Das Auto”, which literally translates to “the car”. They are Germany’s biggest car company and the third largest automaker in the world.

From “the people’s car” to the emissions scandal, it’s safe to say VW have a history like no other.

OSV takes a look at the interesting history of Volkswagen.

A brief history of Volkswagen: From the people’s car to the emissions scandal Read More »

History of the Smart Car

A brief history of the Smart car: From the Swatchmobile to the electric ForTwo

The Smart Car. You either love it or loathe it, but you definitely have an opinion on it. The compact car has been dividing opinion for many years now, and whatever your opinion on the microcar, you can’t deny it’s been pretty successful.

But, where did it all begin?

In this article, we look at the history of the Smart car.

A brief history of the Smart car: From the Swatchmobile to the electric ForTwo Read More »

Nissan Austin

A brief history of Nissan: From Datsun to the Nissan Leaf

As of 2013, Nissan was the sixth largest automaker in the world, and is currently the largest electric vehicle manufacturer, with more than 275,000 electric vehicles sold.

But, how did the Japanese car marque become the largest electric vehicle manufacturer? In this article, we take a look at the rich history of Nissan, from Datsun to the Nissan Leaf.

A brief history of Nissan: From Datsun to the Nissan Leaf Read More »

Is your car stalling your love life

New research reveals men driving Mini’s are found least attractive

It’s no secret that studies often find that women consider men who drive expensive cars more attractive, but what about the cars they find least attractive?

New research released today, revealed that the Mini topped the list with just 5% of women saying that they found men driving Mini’s attractive.

New research reveals men driving Mini’s are found least attractive Read More »