How does Contract Hire work?
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It all starts by agreeing your expected mileage, which will have an effect on how much you pay each month.
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You’ll also need to pay an initial rental, which could be as little as one monthly payment.
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You can then begin making your monthly rental payments, which typically stretch over a term lasting anywhere between 2 and 4 years.
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At the end of your agreement, the finance company will collect your car and give it a thorough check for wear and tear, as well as confirming your mileage. If you’ve gone over the expected mileage or there’s any damage to the car, you may have to pay additional charges.
What are the pros and cons of Contract Hire agreements?
Servicing and maintenance
Many CH agreements cover servicing and maintenance, and possibly even replacement tyres, so the only things you need to pay for are insurance and fuel.
That new car feeling
CH gives you the chance to change your car every few years, and you don’t need to worry about depreciation or selling it on at the end of your contract.
Fixed monthly costs
Sometimes you’ll find servicing and maintenance costs are built into your monthly rentals, which means your motoring costs are fixed and manageable.
Something to bear in mind
When you take out a Contract Hire plan, you never actually own the vehicle. Plus, ending your contract early can be expensive as you’re usually committed to paying all or most of your monthly payments, even if your circumstances change.
What is the difference between CH and PCP?
CH and the similarly named PCP are often confused, but the difference between them is quite simple, CH is a hire agreement and you don't get the option of buying the car at the end of the agreement. With a PCP the opposite is true, it is a purchase plan so you get the option to buy at the end of the agreement.