Cleaning, Condition & Fair Wear

What condition should the vehicle be returned in?

Return the car reasonably clean, with the same fuel or charge level and all its accessories. You don't need to have it valeted. The partner checks it against the condition report from handover.

What is considered fair wear and tear?

Fair wear and tear covers chips and scratches under 25mm, about the size of a 2p coin, that don't break through the paint, plus normal tyre wear. Anything bigger, and any dent, kerbed wheel, tear, burn or stain, is treated as damage.

What is considered excessive dirt or damage?

A car is too dirty if it needs more than normal cleaning, for example because of heavy mud, sand, spills, stains, pet hair or strong smells. The partner can charge a valet fee from your deposit, and smoking or vaping carries a £50 to £250 cleaning fee.

Are pet-related cleaning charges applied?

Pets are allowed, but if the car comes back with pet hair, smells or marks, the partner can charge a valet fee from your deposit. Damage such as scratched trim or chewed seats is charged as damage.

Will the vehicle be inspected?

Yes. The partner inspects the car at handover and again at return, with a condition report and photos. Anything new is compared with the handover report.

What if I disagree with damage charges?

Contact Autofusion within 7 days of being told about the charge, with any photos or videos you have. We review your evidence alongside the partner's condition reports and photos, and let you know the outcome.

Are interior damages treated differently?

No. Interior damage is treated the same way as damage to the outside of the car. Burns, tears, stains and broken trim are charged as damage, while light wear from normal use is fair wear and tear.

What happens if damage is discovered after return?

The partner must raise any damage within 7 days of your hire ending, with photos and the condition reports. If they don't, your deposit is released under the Autofusion Deposit Guarantee.

Can I clean the vehicle myself before returning it?

Yes. You can clean the car yourself, and it only needs to be reasonably clean. Use gentle products, as damage from harsh cleaning, such as scratches from a brush car wash, can be charged.