The most common mistakes when choosing an operating lease and how to avoid them
For many,operating leases are the ideal way to drive a new car without worrying about servicing, insurance or unexpected expenses. All you need is one monthly payment and all the essentials are taken care of.
However, people often make mistakes when choosing the right lease - mainly because they don't know the differences between packages, terms and conditions or assume that all deals work the same. These can then lead to unnecessary extra charges or unpleasant surprises while you're using the car.
To help you avoid them, we've put together an overview of the most common mistakes when choosing an operating lease and simple advice on how to avoid them.
Mistake No. 1: Choosing only the lowest monthly payment
A lower monthly payment looks tempting, but a low price usually means that it doesn't include everything you normally need in an operating lease.
Cheap packages often don't include:
- Collision insurance,
- tyre replacement,
- regular servicing,
- roadside assistance,
- or a replacement vehicle.
If you add up these costs, you'll often find that the final amount is much higher than with a more "expensive" package that includes everything in the base price.
👉 How to avoid it:
Keep an eye on the total package content, not just the price. Ask providers what is included in the price and what you have to pay extra for.
We at AVIS MaxiRent list services clearly and transparently. That way you can be sure you won't pay anything extra.
Mistake No. 2: Incorrectly set mileage limit
The mileage limit is one of the most important parametersin an operating lease . If you set it too low, you can expect to pay extra for excess mileage when you return the car. Conversely, if you choose an unnecessarily high limit, you'll end up paying for mileage you won't use.
👉 How to avoid it:
When setting up, it's important to think about how you use the car in your everyday life and what kind of driving you expect to do during the term of the operating lease. Whether it's:
- Daily trips to work,
- business trips,
- family trips,
- driving mainly in town or out of town.
Ideally, you should set a limit so that you have a small margin but don't pay for extra kilometres.
When you set up your contract, we'll help you set the mileage that works for you based on your habits and plans.
Mistake #3: Not verifying your coverage
Not every operating lease offers the same insurance coverage. Individual packages can vary significantly in the amount of the deductible, what the insurance covers, and what assistance is available to you in the event of an accident or breakdown. That's why it's important to check what's included in the insurance before you sign the contract.
They are not a given everywhere:
- PZP and accident insurance,
- a reasonable deductible,
- glass insurance,
- 24/7 assistance,
- spare car.
👉 How to avoid it:
Always ask what exactly the insurance covers or if you have to pay extra.
With us, you get full insurance andassistance included in the price, which means that in the event of any damage, we'll take care of the whole process for you - stress-free and with no extra costs.
Mistake No. 4: Incorrectly chosen lease length
A common mistake is choosing the wrong lease length. Sometimes customers choose a contract that's too short, which isn't enough after a few months, and they have to deal with extending it or switching to another option. Conversely, others choose a long term, even though they are not yet sure how their work or personal situation will evolve.
👉 How to avoid it:
Think about whether you need a car:
- Short term (temporary project, waiting time for a new car),
- medium term (6-12 months),
- long-term (permanent use).
AVIS MaxiRent offers operating leases from 3 months, which you can easily extend according to your needs. It is the ideal solution if you do not know how long you will actually need the car for.
Mistake No. 5: Ignoring the car's return policy
A lack of information about what is considered normal wear and tear when you hand the car back can lead to unnecessary worry. Some customers expect the car to be in near-perfect condition when they return it, while others don't know the return policy at all. In practice, however, only standard wear and tear from normal drivingis considered .
👉 How to avoid this:
Read what is considered normal wear and tear. With reputable providers, these rules are transparent and fair.
With us, we take a fair and transparent approach to the assessment. Minor scratches, natural wear and tear on the tyres or slight soiling of the interior are all within the norm.
Mistake No. 6: Forgotten service intervals
Even though service is fully coveredunder an operating lease , regular inspections and maintenance still need to be followed. The car has service intervals, which are important to keep it running properly and prevent breakdowns. If service is forgotten or postponed for a long time, it can lead to unnecessary technical problems that can easily be avoided.
👉 How to avoid it:
Follow the warnings on your car's display and the recommended service schedule.
When you see it's time for maintenance, just contact us and we'll recommend a service point and take care of everything you need.
Mistake #7: Lack of communication during the contract
Many customers think that once they sign a contract, they can't modify it. But in many cases, it's possible to change either mileage limits, lease length or additional services after the contract is signed.
👉 How to avoid this:
If the way you use your car changes, communicate this early. We can adjust the contract to better suit your current situation.
Summary: What's the easiest way to avoid mistakes when choosing a lease?
- Compare services, not just price,
- Estimate mileage realistically,
- check your insurance coverage,
- choose a flexible contract length,
- read the return policy,
- keep track of service dates,
- communicate with your provider whenever there is a change.
Good lease setup = less hassle, more convenience
An operating lease is a great way to drive a new car without the commitment, large upfront costs and hassle of maintenance or insurance.
By avoiding the most common mistakes and choosing a solution with clear terms and good service, you get a service that saves you time, money and energy.
With us, all the essential services are included in one monthly payment and you can rely on our support throughout the lifetime of your car.
If you want to drive stress-free and in maximum comfort, take a look at our current offer - you choose your car and we'll take care of everything else.
Vehicles we recommend:
Peugeot 208
The ideal city car, offering economical driving and comfort in a compact package.
- 110hp
- Drive.
- Automatictransmission.
- Equipment: heated front seats, front and rear parking sensors, digital instrument cluster with 10 inch display, wireless Mirror Screen function, touch screen, 17 inch alloy wheels.

Volkswagen Tiguan
A spacious SUV with modern technology and plenty of power for long journeys and family outings.
- 204hp
- Drive: eHybrid
- Automatictransmission.
- Equipment: heated front seats, front and rear parking sensors, 360 parking camera, tilt tow bar, automatic tri-zone climate control, 19-inch alloy wheels.

Thinking of a new car without the hassle?
Check out our current car selection and choose the vehicle that best suits your needs. We will be happy to help you with your choice - contact us on +421 2 2030 2100 or by e-mail at info@avismaxirent.sk.

