Van & Car Leasing FAQs

Van & Car leasing is essentially a long-term rental arrangement that allows you to drive a vehicle without the commitment of full ownership. You pay a fixed monthly fee to use the vehicle for an agreed period and mileage limit. At First Flexi Lease, we typically offer contracts for 6 or 12 months, but we’re flexible—if you need a lease for as little as 3 months or for longer than 12 months, we’re happy to tailor the term to your needs.

Car and van leasing can be a great alternative to buying if you want the freedom to drive a newer vehicle without the upfront costs and long-term commitment of ownership. With First Flexi Lease, our flexible contracts let you easily switch to newer cars or vans every 6–12 months (or even 3 months if needed!). This means you’re always driving the right vehicle for your needs—without worrying about depreciation or resale.

es, you can! At First Flexi Lease, our cars and vans are ideal for businesses of all sizes. Whether you need a reliable van for your workday or a car for your business travel, we’ll create a flexible leasing solution that fits your needs perfectly.

The amount of company vehicle tax you’ll pay for your leased car or van depends on a few key factors, including the vehicle’s CO2 emissions, its value, and how it’s used. HMRC sets these rates each year, and the tax is known as the “Benefit in Kind” (BIK) tax. At First Flexi Lease, we can help you choose a car or van that suits your business and keeps your tax bills low—just ask our team for advice when you’re picking out your next vehicle!

t First Flexi Lease, your contract includes everything you need for hassle-free car and van leasing. You’ll get a high-quality, brand-new vehicle every 12 months (or sooner if needed), with no hard credit checks, minimal paperwork, and generous mileage allowances tailored to your needs. As an example, for vehicles with a 12-month Flexi Lease and annual mileage of 20,000 miles (or less), there are no servicing costs or tyre changes required if the vehicle is returned within the manufacturer’s schedule, and tyres are assumed fair wear. Plus, every contract comes with road tax and 12-month roadside cover included—giving you complete peace of mind with just one simple monthly payment. No hidden costs, no hassle, just flexible leasing designed for you.

While our contracts cover most of what you need, there are a few things not included in your car or van lease. Fuel, insurance, and any damage beyond fair wear and tear are your responsibility. Any excess mileage charges will also apply if you go over the agreed limit. We keep everything else simple and transparent, with no hidden costs—just honest, flexible leasing that works for you. 

Maintenance is the responsibility of the customer for all our leased cars and vans. It’s essential to keep up with the vehicle’s servicing requirements as outlined in the manufacturer’s guidelines. This includes ensuring the service book is stamped and receipts are kept, ready to provide if requested. You can easily check service intervals in the vehicle handbook or onboard menu, which will show a countdown in days or miles until the next service. Typically, servicing should be carried out by a main dealer using genuine manufacturer parts. 

Yes, your car or van lease includes Vehicle Excise Duty (road tax) for the first year. If you’re leasing the vehicle for longer than 12 months, we’ll handle the renewal for you and simply invoice you for the new tax period—making it easy and stress-free!

Yes! All our leased cars and vans come with 12 months of free roadside assistance from the manufacturer. If you ever need help, you can find the breakdown assistance phone numbers [here]—we’re always here to keep you moving

Yes, the customer is fully responsible for insuring the vehicle. All leased cars and vans must be comprehensively insured by anyone driving the vehicle, and for the correct mileage you’ll be covering. We regularly check the MID (Motor Insurance Database) to ensure compliance. If your insurance details aren’t up to date, we’ll always try to work with you to resolve it promptly—but in serious cases, we may need to recover the vehicle to keep everyone protected.

If your leased car or van is written off by your insurance company after an accident, you’ll need to settle the outstanding balance of your lease agreement. In many cases, your insurer will pay out the market value of the vehicle directly to us or to you, and we’ll work with you to resolve any remaining balance. It’s essential to ensure your insurance policy fully covers the vehicle’s value and usage, so you’re protected in the event of a write-off. If you’re unsure about your insurance coverage, we’re happy to help you understand what’s needed to stay protected.

Initial payments are taken before we deliver your car or van. You can pay by bank transfer, debit or credit card, or Apple Pay—simply follow the links we provide to complete the payment securely. If you prefer, you can also set up a direct debit for convenient ongoing payments.

While your agreement is with First Flexi Lease, all of our cars and vans are supplied by main dealers and come directly from the manufacturers. This ensures you’re always getting a high-quality, well-maintained vehicle backed by trusted suppliers.

Yes! All of our cars and vans come with the full manufacturer’s warranty, giving you complete peace of mind. It’s important to note that the vehicle must be serviced and maintained according to the manufacturer’s guidelines to keep the warranty valid. If it’s not serviced in line with these guidelines, the warranty could become invalid—so we always recommend following the manufacturer’s schedule carefully.

We offer flexible mileage allowances to suit your personal or business needs. Some of our agreements allow you to choose your mileage, while others come with a fixed mileage limit. We always recommend choosing the mileage you know you’ll be able to stay within to avoid any excess mileage charges. Just let us know what you need, and we’ll work with you to find the perfect fit—whether you’re driving around Exeter or across the South West!

We understand that traditional credit checks can be a concern, so at First Flexi Lease, we only carry out soft credit searches to confirm your identity and address—these won’t impact your credit score. We reserve the right to carry out background checks to ensure you can meet your commitments, but our decisions aren’t based on strict credit scores or computer algorithms. It’s real people, not computers, who make the decisions—because we believe everyone has a story.

At First Flexi Lease, we aim to make leasing as flexible and straightforward as possible. Generally, our main restrictions are that you must have a valid driving licence, maintain comprehensive insurance, and keep up with the vehicle’s servicing requirements. Some vehicles may also have specific mileage allowances or usage limits depending on your agreement. If you’re unsure about any details or restrictions, our friendly team is always here to help—just ask!

Yes, we do offer ‘no deposit’ leasing options for cars and vans! However, this may mean your monthly payments are a little higher. At First Flexi Lease, we’re all about flexibility—so we can work with you to find the perfect balance for your budget. Whether that means adjusting the initial deposit, adding a balloon payment at the end, or changing your monthly payments, we’ll tailor the agreement to suit your needs.

Yes! We can arrange delivery of your car or van for an additional cost. Delivery usually takes around 7–10 days. If you prefer, you’re also welcome to collect your vehicle directly from us in Exeter. Please note that it’s the customer’s responsibility to return the vehicle to our headquarters at the end of the lease. However, we can also arrange collection for you at an additional cost—typically £1 per mile plus VAT and fuel.

It’s definitely worth considering! For example, with 12,000 miles per year, a Ford E-Custom electric van could cost you around £355 in annual energy (at 8p/kWh), compared to about £2,445 in diesel fuel costs—a saving of over £2,000 every year. If you’re not ready to go fully electric, we also offer flexible Ford Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) options. Plus, we can help organise EV charger installation through our trusted partners, ensuring a smooth transition. Still unsure? We’re happy to offer a no-obligation consultation to help you decide what’s best for your business. At First Flexi Lease, we provide flexible 12-month contracts, local expertise, and friendly guidance every step of the way!

If your leased car or van needs repairs, please let us know as soon as possible—we’re here to help. Repairs are typically your responsibility, and if the vehicle is still under warranty, work should be carried out by an authorised main dealer. All repairs must be completed to a high standard—shabby or poor repairs may be picked up when the vehicle is returned, and if they’re not done properly, we reserve the right to arrange for them to be corrected and pass on the associated costs to you. In accordance with your Lease Agreement, vehicles must be returned to our agreed Return Standards. If they’re not, First Flexi Lease will provide you with a costed inspection based on our end-of-life repair cost matrices. You can review these matrices [here]. We’re always on hand to guide you through the process and ensure everything is done properly and fairly.

If you go over your agreed mileage for your leased car or van, an excess mileage charge will apply. This helps us cover the extra wear and tear on the vehicle. We always recommend choosing a mileage allowance that suits your needs upfront—our team can help you find the right plan to avoid any surprises later. If you’re unsure about your mileage or want to adjust your agreement, just get in touch—we’re here to help!

We understand that life and business needs can change—so yes, we’ll always try to help you adjust your lease agreement wherever possible. If you need to extend or shorten the term, adjust your mileage allowance, or swap your vehicle for a different model, let us know. While some changes might affect your monthly payments, our team is here to work with you to find the best solution that keeps you moving. Just get in touch, and we’ll see what’s possible!

No, unfortunately you can’t pass your lease on to family members, friends, or colleagues. We’ve seen issues in the past when leases are transferred mid-term—especially around responsibilities for repairs or damages at the end of the agreement. To keep everything clear and fair, the lease must stay in the name of the person or business who originally signed the agreement.

It depends on the vehicle and the lease agreement. In some cases, if we own the vehicle, we may allow certain basic modifications—like fitting a tow bar—but you must always get our permission first. If the vehicle needs to be returned to the manufacturer at the end of the lease, modifications usually aren’t allowed. We’re always happy to discuss your specific needs, so just ask and we’ll see what’s possible!

When your lease ends, you have a few options. Many of our customers choose to stay on the road with us by leasing another car or van—often pre-ordering their next vehicle so it’s ready without any gap. We can also explore options to purchase the vehicle you’ve been leasing if you’d like to keep it. If you’d prefer to end your contract completely, that’s fine too. Either way, our friendly team will guide you through the process to make sure everything is smooth and stress-free!

At the end of the lease agreement, the vehicle remains the property of First Flexi Lease or the finance provider. However, if you’d like to purchase the vehicle at the end of your lease, this is sometimes an option. Usually, it’s best to discuss this at the start of your lease so we can tailor the agreement to include a purchase option. That said, we’re always happy to chat about buying the vehicle at the end of the term if that’s something you’re interested in—just let us know and we’ll see what’s possible!

Normal wear and tear is expected on all leased cars and vans, but it’s important to follow our Return Standards to avoid extra costs. If your vehicle needs repairs beyond normal wear, we’ll provide a costed inspection based on our end-of-life repair cost matrix. Excess mileage and rental charges apply if you exceed your lease terms, and any missed servicing or damage could result in extra fees—so it’s crucial to service and maintain the vehicle according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Vehicles returned significantly late, with major damage, or outside of service standards may need to be purchased at market value, or First Flexi Lease will handle the repairs and pass on the costs. You can find full details, including repair cost matrices and tips for minimising charges, on our Returns Standards page. If you’re ever unsure or need help, just get in touch—we’re always happy to guide you through it!

We understand that circumstances can change. In most cases, you can end your car or van lease agreement early by giving us a month’s notice. There may be a penalty charge for early termination, but we’ll always work with you to find the best solution. If you’re thinking about ending your lease early, just get in touch and our team will explain the options and any costs involved.

Yes, you can drive your leased car or van abroad, but you’ll need to let us know first so we can provide you with a VE103 certificate. This certificate proves you’re allowed to take a leased vehicle out of the country. Make sure your insurance covers driving abroad, as some policies have restrictions or extra costs for European travel. Don’t forget to carry the necessary documents: your driving licence, passport, VE103 certificate, and breakdown cover details. If you have any questions or need help sorting everything out, just let us know—we’re here to make it easy!

Yes, you can switch to another car or van if your needs change during the lease. This is similar to ending your agreement early—there may be a penalty charge, but in most cases, you can change vehicles with a month’s notice. Just let us know what you’re looking for, and we’ll work with you to make the transition as smooth and flexible as possible!

Yes, in most cases you can add your private registration plates to your leased car or van. However, it depends on who owns the vehicle. If it’s one of ours, we’re happy to help you fit your private plates. When we lease vehicles from certain suppliers, though, they may not allow private plates to be added. If you’d like to use a private plate, just let us know and we’ll see what’s possible!

Yes, we do! At First Flexi Lease, we understand that credit issues can happen to anyone. We look at each case individually, focusing on your overall situation rather than relying solely on credit scores or automated decisions. While we carry out a soft credit check to confirm your address and identity, it won’t impact your credit score. Our decisions are made by real people who take the time to listen. If you’ve had credit challenges, it helps to provide us with some background so we can consider your application in full. Just get in touch and we’ll be happy to talk through your options—no judgment, just practical advice.

At First Flexi Lease, we offer flexible deposit options to suit your needs. While a deposit is usually required upfront, we can adjust it to help you find the best balance for your budget—whether that means a higher deposit to reduce monthly payments or even a no-deposit option if needed. Just let us know what works best for you, and we’ll do our best to make it happen!

While we can’t skip the credit check completely, we only carry out a soft credit check that doesn’t affect your credit score. This is mainly to verify your address and identity. If you’re worried about your credit, providing proof of income, bank statements, or other relevant documents can really help us assess your application in a flexible and fair way. We’re more interested in your ability to afford the lease and your overall situation, not just your credit score. If you’d like to discuss your options, feel free to reach out—our friendly team is here to help!

Begin by browsing our selection of cars and vans on our website. Once you’ve chosen a vehicle, contact our team to discuss your requirements. We’ll guide you through the application process, including any necessary documentation and credit checks.

Typically, you’ll need to provide proof of identity (such as a driver’s license), proof of address, and proof of income. Additional documents may be requested based on individual circumstances.

We strive for transparency in all our agreements. All fees, including any potential charges for excess mileage or wear and tear, will be clearly outlined in your contract.

Yes, we offer flexible leasing options and are open to discussing terms that suit your needs, including lease duration and mileage allowances.

All our vehicles come with roadside assistance. In the event of a breakdown, contact the provided assistance number for immediate support.

Yes, we have a range of electric and hybrid vehicles available. Leasing an eco-friendly vehicle can offer benefits such as lower running costs and reduced environmental impact.

Depending on your location, there may be government incentives or tax benefits for leasing electric vehicles. Our team can provide information on any applicable programs.

Yes, lease extensions are usually possible. Contact us before your lease ends to discuss extension options and any adjustments to your agreement.

You can reach us via phone at 01392 249250 or through our website’s contact form. Our team is here to assist you with any questions or concerns.

Absolutely. We provide tailored leasing solutions for businesses, including fleet management options. Contact our business leasing team to discuss your requirements.

Flexi Leasing with First Flexi Lease is designed to suit your changing needs and lifestyle—perfect for individuals and businesses across Exeter and the South West! Here’s why it might be exactly what you’re looking for:

✅ 1. Probationary New Starters – If you’re hiring a new employee and they’re on probation, flexi leasing lets you provide a vehicle without the long-term commitment. If things don’t work out, you can easily swap or return the vehicle after just 3–12 months.

✅ 2. Seasonal or Short-Term Contracts – Whether it’s a busy delivery season or a temporary work project, flexi leasing ensures you always have the right vehicle for the job, without the financial burden of buying or long leases.

✅ 3. Cashflow Friendly – With lower deposits and predictable monthly payments, flexi leasing helps you manage your cashflow—ideal for start-ups or businesses keeping a close eye on finances.

✅ 4. Try Before You Commit – Thinking of upgrading to an electric van or a more premium vehicle? Flexi leasing lets you try it out before you commit long-term, so you can be confident it’s the right fit.

✅ 5. Personal Changes – Life can be unpredictable! Whether you’re moving house, changing jobs, or your family is growing, flexi leasing adapts with you—no rigid contracts, no hidden fees.

✅ 6. Peace of Mind in Uncertain Times – In today’s fast-moving world, flexibility matters. Flexi leasing ensures you’re never stuck with a vehicle that doesn’t fit your current needs.

From brand-new cars to reliable vans, First Flexi Lease’s flexible contracts (starting from just 3 months!) make it easy to keep moving—whatever life throws your way. Want to know more? Contact us today and let’s find the perfect vehicle for you!