Fleets leasing LDV vans have been left unsure what warranty cover their vehicles have after some lease companies indicated they will cover all costs but the BVRLA warning that not all of its members may be so generous.

Following the collapse of LDV, its dealer committee confirmed that the 132 LDV dealers were not required to cover warranty work (Fleet News June 11).

This has left the estimated 30,000 LDV vans – the majority of which in use with fleets – without cover.
Lease providers are taking differing approaches.

For example, ING Car Lease said it will cover costs for any work that would have been carried out under the manufacturer’s warranty.

However, others are taking a different approach. LeasePlan for example said it will cover costs only where fleets have a maintenance-inclusive contract.

“The issue puts a spotlight on the importance of servicing and maintenance packages,” said Graham Rixon, operations director at LeasePlan.

“When issues like this occur, having access to a leasing provider’s approved network of garages can be vital. Without it, companies are left alone to source servicing and maintenance without any guarantee on quality or service levels.”

The BVRLA said LDV dealers still have a responsibility.

“Under the Sale of Goods Act, the supplying dealer is legally responsible for carrying out warranty work,” said John Lewis, BVRLA chief executive.

“How a leasing company reacts if a dealer is unable or unwilling to honour this warranty is a commercial decision for them.”

Managers with outright purchase LDV vans on their fleet are being offered warranty cover through third-party providers. Warranty Wise for example, is offering a three-year 120,000-mile warranty for £1,105 per vehicle, although it said a bulk discount could be available.

For fleets considering buying a new LDV, Motorpoint is now offering a free one-year warranty if they buy one of its LDV vans.
Multipart has also confirmed it will continue to supply LDV parts.