FLEET managers can avoid unexpected costs at defleeting time by demanding a thorough initial quality inspection audit and subsequent report.

According to Guy Pearce, UK sales manager at the Fleet Auction Group, an audit should cover all aspects of smart repairs and include an accurate and comprehensive estimate so that fleet managers can recharge the user, or include the costs in the remarketing of the vehicle.

He said: 'The last thing fleet managers want is unexpected costs for additional reparation when the final bill comes in.'

Pearce believes the time taken to give the car a thorough going over followed by smart repairs on areas that need work reaps dividends in the long run.

'The vehicle that is in straight to retail condition will be the one buyers are more likely to go for, and be prepared to pay that little but extra for. The first impression has got to be made to count,' he added.