Pre-Registered Cars

When it comes to leasing a new car, there are loads of options to choose from. One option is to go for a ‘pre-registered’ car.

But what on earth does that mean and why would I want to do it? I hear you ask. In this article, we’ll look at just what a pre-registered car is, how it’s different from a new car, and the benefits of having a pre-registered car.

What are pre-registered cars?

‘Pre-owned’ implies that it’s had another owner but pre-registered has a different meaning.

Essentially, pre-registered cars are like new: they’ve never been used by a member of the public and will have very few (if any) miles on the clock. But they’re technically classed as used as they’ve already been registered with the name of the dealership/broker/leasing company (that’s us!) as the first owner - even if it’s never been driven off the forecourt.

Why do dealers/brokers/leasing companies pre-register cars?

It’s basically you scratch my back, I’ll scratch yours. Manufacturers aren’t too fussed about how their cars are sold, just that they’re sold. They will set dealers sales targets, and if these are met, the dealer may earn a bonus. As a result, dealers will often purchase the cars from a manufacturer themselves in order to meet these targets.

They then sell/lease these practically brand new cars onto their customers.

What difference does it make getting a pre-registered car?

The main difference – other than the registration plate - is the warranty, MOT and services. The clock for all of them starts ticking when the car is registered, not when you get it.

This means that the MOT is due on the third anniversary of the vehicle’s registration and will come sooner than if you got a brand new car that was registered around the time your lease started.

This shouldn’t be a problem for you, but it’s worth noting when taking out your lease because it could mean, for example, needing to get an MOT done before returning the car to us at the end of a three-year lease.

Something else to consider is that a pre-registered car is already made, so what you see is what you get. The advantage to this is that it’s pre-loaded with a great spec and is already here in the UK, so it’s ready to drive away!

If customisation is important to you, you might find it tricky to get a pre-registered car that’s exactly as you want it. So, think carefully about what’s most important for you. For some people a car is a means to an end, so having a pre-registered car straight away and cheaper would be a massive win for them.

Are pre-registered cars cheaper?

From us, yes. A pre-registered car will be cheaper than a car we need to order specifically for you.

You’re also likely to get a car that is ready to be delivered really quickly, because it’s already built, it’s in the UK and it’s ready to go.

So, leasing a pre-registered car offers you the best of both worlds; you’re getting a car that is essentially brand new while making the kinds of savings you might get from buying or leasing a lower spec car.

Do you pay VAT on pre-registered cars?

Pre-registered cars are really no different than new cars and will include VAT just like them. This may not be your dream scenario, but with the amount of savings on the cost of the car, the overall cost may still land a little lighter. So, you can better save for a rainy day.

Thinking of leasing a new car? Browse our top lease deals to find your dream wheels!

Haven’t made up your mind whether pre-registered is for you? Our New Car Consultants are here to help find the right wheels for you. Give them a call on 0113 468 5377 or drop them an email [email protected] to start your ZenAuto journey.