Pre-Registered Vehicles Explained

You may have noticed some of our special offers labelled as ‘pre-reg’ or ‘pre-registered’ and wondered what that means. While some may hesitate, opting for a pre-registered lease vehicle can be worth considering for several reasons. In this guide, GB Vehicle Leasing explain what pre-reg vehicles are and why they can offer great value when leasing. Understanding these offers can help you make an informed decision when choosing your next vehicle.

What Is a Pre-Registered Vehicle?

A pre-registered vehicle is one that has been registered in advance by a dealership or provider before being leased to a customer. It has already been registered with the DVLA and given a number plate. When you choose a pre-registered vehicle, it will have one registered previous owner (typically the dealer), while you, as the driver, are the designated user under the terms of the vehicle lease agreement.

Vehicle dealerships and suppliers are only paid once the vehicle is registered, typically when delivered. They often pre-register vehicles to meet monthly sales targets or secure pricing before a price hike. By registering vehicles ahead of time, they ensure faster transactions and can lock in current prices, enabling them to sell vehicles at a lower rate than if the price increase had already occurred. This strategy helps manage inventory and maximise sales opportunities.

Advantages of A Pre-Registered Lease Vehicle

Opting for a pre-registered lease vehicle offers several advantages that make it an attractive option for many drivers. One of the primary benefits is highly competitive pricing. Pre-reg vehicles are often available at a lower price as they have already been registered by the dealer. This price reduction can save you money while still offering a fantastic vehicle with modern features.

Another significant advantage is quick delivery times. Since these vehicles are already registered, they’re ready for quick delivery (after the statutory cooling off period which is typically 14 working days). This means you can bypass the typical wait times associated with ordering a factory order car or van.

Additionally, pre reg vehicles will have very low mileage (if any). Although they have been registered with the DVLA, they remain in exceptional condition.

Disadvantages of A Pre-Registered Lease Vehicle

While pre-reg lease vehicles offer several benefits, there are some potential drawbacks to consider. One of the main disadvantages is that choice might be limited. Since these vehicles have already been registered, the available options in terms of models, colours, and specifications can be restricted compared to a factory order vehicle. If you're particular about specific features or customisations, a pre-registered car may not offer the flexibility you need.

Another point to consider is the potential warranty reduction. With pre-registered vehicles, their warranty starts from the date of registration, not when you take delivery. This means you might lose out on some of the warranty coverage if the vehicle has been registered for a while before you lease it.

In the UK, by law, all vehicles must have an MOT check after 3 years. The servicing and MOT schedule begins from the vehicle’s original registration date, not the date you took delivery of it. If you opt for a 3 or more year lease, then you could be liable to pay for an MOT check or depending on the vehicle, possibly servicing costs. The recommended manufacturer service schedules differ based on factors like the manufacturer, make, model etc.

Contact GB Vehicle Leasing

Should you have any questions about pre-reg vehicles, our approachable team is always available to provide the answers you need. Feel free to reach out to GB Vehicle Leasing by phone or message – we’re here to help ensure a smooth, informed leasing experience.

Also, we offer competitive pricing on a wide variety of pre-reg cars and vans, catering to all kinds of lifestyles. If you’re interested in pre reg car deals, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.