Hi Comfortablynumb. I’m absolutely delighted to hear that Motability have agreed to allow you to change your vehicle. As I said when offering my original advice, having to cope with a disability is challenging enough, without being saddled with an unsuitable car for three years. I recall that when we had to change our car early we were given a pro rata refund of the AP but not the GCB (as far as I can recall), so they must have improved that aspect. Another good example of how this forum can be invaluable when we all share our experiences. I agree that it’s going to be a real challenge to select a new car at present. We can order from the end of March but I can see us extending the lease, unless we opt for a newer version of our current car. There is no way that I would order a new car without a decent test drive (and that’s a few hours, not 20 minutes). I need to check access for my wife and her wheelchair and I always reset the fuel computer when I pick up the car so that I can see what the fuel economy is like with my style of driving. I also like to test the cars on the motorway, twisty roads and in traffic, all of which takes time. Luckily we have a massive garage, so I can fit any two cars in it with ease, but if I had a normal sized garage I would want to drive it home to check that as well! It is so true what they say about buying new cars – choose in haste and repent at leisure! The other reason that we might delay is because there is nothing available on the scheme at present that particularly excites us. We have a short list of half a dozen but none are perfect!
Cheers Glos Guy.
The pro rata for GCB is dependent on reason for cancellation so isn’t yet confirmed I qualify. Would only be a few beer tokens anyway.
This is what the advisor sent me on the live chat:
Claire: CANCELLATION CONDITIONS:
Conditions:
– You need to have at least 12 months of your mobility allowance remaining to be able to order another vehicle.
– By ending your agreement early you will not be eligible for the full Good Condition Bonus (GCB) However, you may qualify for a partial GCB depending on the reason for your cancellation.
– Please ensure you test drive your next car and that your new car is higher up than your current car. Also make sure you are happy with the vehicle before placing your next application.
– Any extras you may have paid for on your vehicle are non refundable.
– You will receive a pro rata refund of the Advance Payment (AP) you paid towards your vehicle after it has been returned.
– If you have any outstanding debt this would need to be addressed before a new application can be made (for example speeding or parking tickets).
– We would ask that you please return the vehicle with both sets of keys and the manual.
– If you have a personalised number plate that you wish to retain, please let us know when you are able to pay the £80 retention fee to do this.