News

BVRLA launches Return Ready to support smoother vehicle returns

Published
29 Jul 26

The British Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (BVRLA) has launched Return Ready, a new digital guidance tool designed to help drivers better understand vehicle condition before returning their leased vehicle.

More information on Return Ready
dentify your vehicle damage and see what the BVRLA Fair Wear and Tear standard says about it. This tool helps you understand how specific damage may be viewed when you return your leased vehicle. Return Ready -inspecting damage phone

Developed in partnership with digital vehicle condition specialist Wondle, the free pilot is available to customers of BVRLA members through the Consumer Advice section of the BVRLA website. The initiative reflects the Association's commitment to raise industry standards by improving customer experience and setting consistent industry standards.

Return Ready enables drivers to compare damage they have already identified on their vehicle against the BVRLA's industry-standard Fair Wear & Tear Guide for Cars. Where relevant, the tool provides the corresponding guidance from the Fair Wear & Tear Guide, helping drivers make informed decisions about whether any remedial work may be appropriate before the vehicle is returned.

By encouraging drivers to review vehicle condition ahead of the end of their agreement, the tool aims to reduce uncertainty around the return process, provide customers with greater time and choice, and support more informed conversations between drivers and leasing providers. 

Importantly, Return Ready has been designed as an educational guidance tool rather than a replacement for the established vehicle return process. It does not provide repair cost estimates, apply individual leasing company standards, collect customer data or replace a formal vehicle inspection. Instead, it helps drivers understand how the Fair Wear & Tear Guide applies to damage they have already identified themselves.

The pilot phase will allow the BVRLA and Wondle to gather feedback from members and customers, helping shape the future development of digital tools that support a more transparent and consistent vehicle return experience.

BVRLA Member Services Director Simon Tebbutt said: “The Fair Wear & Tear Guide is the industry standard for vehicle returns, enabling all members and customers to have a consistent, transparent experience. Return Ready builds on that foundation by making the guidance more accessible and interactive.

“We're continually looking at ways to improve the customer journey while supporting our members with practical, consistent tools. By helping drivers understand vehicle condition before they return their vehicle, we can reduce uncertainty, encourage informed decision-making and contribute to a smoother experience for everyone.”

Simon Carr, Founder of Wondle, said: “We're delighted to be working with the BVRLA on this pilot. Together, we created Return Ready to make trusted industry guidance easier for customers to access and understand. Rather than replacing the existing return process, the tool helps drivers interpret the Fair Wear & Tear Guide in a simple, digital format that fits with modern expectations.”

Return Ready is now available via the Consumer Advice pages of the BVRLA website for customers of BVRLA members. The Association is encouraging members to explore the tool, share it with customers where appropriate and provide feedback throughout the pilot period.

For further information, members should contact Amanda Brandon, Director of Member Engagement.

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