Motability Car Returns: What to Do When Someone Dies
This guide simplifies the Motability returns process when the driver passes away, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience while complying with legal requirements.
Do This First
- Notify Motability – Call 0300 456 4566 or use the online notification form.
- Gather Required Documents – Prepare the deceased’s full name, date of death, vehicle registration number (VRN), and contact details of the person handling the return.
- Confirm Return Process – Arrange vehicle collection and ensure all Motability equipment is ready for return.
What This Article Contains
What Happens to a Motability Car When the Driver Dies?
- The lease ends immediately upon the policyholder’s death.
- The estate is NOT responsible for any outstanding payments.
- Motability arranges free vehicle collection from home, hospital, or care facility.
- A carer or spouse may apply for a new Motability vehicle if eligible.
How to Inform Motability of a Death
There are two ways:
- Use the government’s “Tell Us Once” service.
- The executor, next of kin, or registered driver can contact Motability directly:
- Phone: 0300 456 4566
- Email: customer.services@motability.co.uk
- Online: Report a Customer Passing
The estate is not liable for payments after notification.
Can You Drive a Motability Car After the Policyholder Dies?
- Permitted drivers can use the car for up to two weeks to handle the deceased’s affairs.
- The vehicle remains insured and taxed during this period.
- After two weeks, the car must be returned.
How to Return the Vehicle
Motability will:
- Schedule a free collection at a convenient time.
- Collect the vehicle from home, a care facility, or a hospital.
- Cancel any remaining lease payments.
Where to return the vehicle?
- The car must be returned to Motability, not a dealership.
- If the car is not driveable, Motability will arrange a tow truck.
What Happens to Insurance & Road Tax?
Insurance (Covers the Car for Two Weeks)
- Motability insurance remains active for two weeks after death.
- Permitted drivers can legally drive the car during this time.
- After two weeks, insurance is cancelled, and the vehicle cannot be driven.
Road Tax (Cancelled Automatically)
- Motability notifies the DVLA.
- No need to declare SORN or request a tax refund.
Fuel Cards & Adaptations
- Fuel cards should be cut up and disposed of.
- Motability-funded adaptations remain with the vehicle.
- Privately funded adaptations may be removed—contact Motability for assistance.
Can a Family Member or Carer Keep the Vehicle?
- No. The vehicle is leased and must be returned.
Alternative Options:
- A carer or spouse can apply for a new Motability car if they receive a qualifying mobility allowance.
- A family member who wants to keep the car must purchase it privately.
What If the Car Is Not Returned?
- Motability will attempt to contact the next of kin multiple times.
- If unreturned, Motability may reclaim the vehicle through a recovery service.
FAQs: Returning a Motability Car After Death
How long can I keep the Motability car after the policyholder dies?
For permitted drivers, this is up to two weeks. After that, insurance ends, and the car must be returned.
Can I drive the Motability car before returning it?
Yes but only for two weeks. After that, insurance is cancelled, and driving is illegal.
What if a carer or spouse still needs a Motability car?
They must apply for a new vehicle under their name and receive a qualifying mobility allowance.
What happens if the car is adapted?
Motability-funded adaptations remain with the vehicle.
Privately funded adaptations may be removed—contact Motability to discuss options.
Do I need to notify the DVLA?
No. Motability handles this automatically.
Final Steps: What Should You Do Next?
- Call Motability on 0300 456 4566 – Notify them of the death.
- Arrange free vehicle collection – Schedule a return date.
- Do not drive the car after two weeks – Insurance is cancelled.
- Dispose of fuel cards and return all Motability equipment.
- If a carer or spouse needs a Motability vehicle, apply separately.
For assistance, visit the Motability Scheme or consult a probate solicitor for legal guidance.