Getting your next Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) should be a smooth and exciting experience. But there’s one important step that can help everything go to plan.
Check your current vehicle for any damage before your delivery day. If damage has not been reported in advance, it could delay your new vehicle handover.
Key takeaways
- Check your WAV for damage a few weeks before the delivery date of your new vehicle
- If damage is found to your existing WAV, it could delay the delivery of your new one
- Reporting damage early means your insurance claim can be processed as soon as possible
- Check your WAV for damage to the interior and exterior, glass and tyres
- If you’re unsure, report damage to Direct Line Motability (DLM)
Jump to:
When your new WAV is delivered, your current one is collected at the same time. Before the handover can go ahead, the condition of your existing vehicle needs to be checked and recorded.
If damage is found that has not already been reported, you may need to raise an insurance claim before you can get your new vehicle.
This can mean:
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You cannot receive your new vehicle on the day
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The delivery will need to be rearranged
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You may face delays and inconvenience
In some cases, the person delivering your new vehicle will need to leave without completing the handover. This is a wasted journey for your supplier and means you will wait longer for your new vehicle.
Checking your vehicle early helps avoid this situation. Get more tips on looking after your WAV.
If your WAV is damaged at any point during your lease, you should report it straight away. Do not wait until your handover day.
Reporting damage early means:
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Your insurance claim can be processed in time
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Repairs can be arranged if needed
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Your delivery day is less likely to be delayed
Leaving it until the end of your lease can cause unnecessary problems, even if the damage seems minor.
That’s why it’s important to make sure you answer your WAV supplier when they contact you about yearly checks and servicing.
When should you check the vehicle you’re returning?
It’s best to check your vehicle well before your delivery day, not just the day before. Checking it as soon as you know your delivery date means you have plenty of time to resolve any issues.
This gives you time to:
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Spot any damage you may not have noticed
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Report the issue
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Arrange any repairs if needed
Even a quick check a couple of weeks before delivery can make a big difference.
You do not need to be an expert. A simple check is enough.
Use the below as a handy checklist of potential issues to look out for:
Exterior damage
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Scratches, dents or scuffs
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Damage to bumpers or doors
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Marks on alloy wheels
Glass and visibility
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Chips or cracks in the windscreen
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Damage to windows or mirrors
Tyres and wheels
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Worn or damaged tyres
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Scuffed or cracked wheels
Interior condition
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Tears, stains or damage to seats
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Broken or missing fittings
If you’re unsure whether something counts as damage, it’s always better to report it.
Taking a few minutes to check your vehicle ahead of time helps you:
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Avoid delays getting your new vehicle
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Reduce stress on delivery day
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Make sure your handover goes ahead as planned
Your delivery day should be straightforward. We know you want to start enjoying your new WAV.
By checking your current vehicle and reporting any damage early, you can help make sure everything runs smoothly.
If you’re ever unsure what to do, we’re here to help.
What happens if damage is found on delivery day?
If damage is found which has not been reported, you may need to raise an insurance claim before the handover can go ahead. This could delay getting your new vehicle and mean your delivery is rearranged.
Do I need to report small scratches or minor damage?
Yes. It’s best to report any damage, even if it seems small. This helps avoid delays later and makes sure everything is recorded correctly.
When is the best time to check my vehicle?
Look after your vehicle throughout your lease and give it a thorough check as soon as you know your delivery date. This gives you enough time to report any damage and sort things before your new vehicle arrives.
Will reporting damage delay my new vehicle?
Reporting damage early usually helps avoid delays. Waiting until delivery day is what can cause problems.
Raise a claim through your online account
Report an insurance claim at any time of day through your Motability Scheme online account. It’s important you register a claim as soon as possible after an incident.
Once you’ve logged in, visit the Direct Line Motability (DLM) insurance portal and then go to ‘Claims’ to get started.
Your online account also lets you find details about your lease, your insurance cover and your drivers.
Related articles
‘How a Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle helped me keep my independence’
Navigating parking and access: Practical tips for WAV users
What you can expect from your WAV lease package
