When to Replace Your PCO Car: A Guide for London PCO Drivers
As a PCO driver, your car can directly affect your daily income. A reliable, comfortable car can improve passenger satisfaction and earnings. On the other hand, a vehicle that is past its best will break down more often.
Your car will start to show signs when it’s no longer suitable for the PCO hire job. Replacing your PCO car at the right time helps you avoid repair costs and wasted working hours.
Note: Drivers who are on a PCO car hire plan, the car provider handles maintenance and replacement.
Kia eNiro
£125/week
Kia Niro 2
£260/week
Mercedes Benz EQE
£325/week
Mercedes E300 2025
£375/week
Mercedes-Benz E300e
£320/week
Toyota Prius
£200/week
Article Highlights
Here are some signs that your hired PCO car needs to be switched:
- 100,000+ miles driven
- Increased fuel consumption
- Frequent breakdowns, and more.
Mileage Exceeds 100,000
Most PCO cars are replaced between the ranges of 100,000-150,000 miles because the car starts to wear down after this point. Major components like suspension, gearbox, and brakes need repairs more often. The fuel economy significantly drops as well, which takes its toll on your weekly income. Although the car is still running, the cost of keeping it on the road can become higher.
Frequent Breakdowns
If your car faces mechanical breakdowns too often, then it could be a sign to replace it because frequent repairs eat into your profits and increase your downtime. Time is money in the PCO industry, and an unreliable car costs money in both repairs and lost earnings.
Read Also: Why Breakdown Cover Is a Must in Your PCO Car Hire Contract
Struggling to Pass MOT or PCO Inspections
TfL conducts MOT checks every six months and detailed annual car inspections to confirm the safety of your car. If your car keeps failing these inspections, that’s a sign that it’s time to replace the vehicle. Regular failure of those tests puts your PCO licence and your eligibility to drive for Uber or Bolt at risk.
Get a well-maintained car with Fleeto and stay compliant with TfL’s vehicle standards. All our cars have valid MOT certificates and pass annual inspections easily before PHV licence renewal. With us, you don’t have to worry about unexpected breakdowns or compliance issues. We handle it all so you can focus on driving and earning.
Drive Without Worry!
Hire a PCO Car Today With Full Accident Cover!
Stay on the road, protect your earnings with Fleeto.
High Fuel Consumption
Old petrol and diesel vehicles tend to consume more fuel as they age. What could seem like a small amount of extra fuel each month could potentially end up costing you hundreds of pounds annually. Plus, the rising fuel prices add an extra financial burden. Most drivers switch to hybrid or electric PCO cars to lower their fuel costs and avoid daily ULEZ charges.
Not ULEZ Compliant
With the expanding Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), every vehicle that doesn’t meet Euro 6 emission standards must pay £12.50 daily. For a full-time PCO driver working six days a week, that’s £325 extra a month, which can be used to hire or rent to buy a newer, compliant car.
At Fleeto, we offer a wide range of ULEZ-compliant cars to help you avoid the £12.50 daily charge. All our cars are insured and PCO-ready as well. Check out our collection and pick your preferred car today.
Read Also: 11 Best Cars for PCO Drivers in 2025
Rising Insurance Costs
Older cars are usually considered at high risk of accidents because they lack advanced safety features. Insurers increase premiums on older, high-risk cars. Sometimes, the premium can be double or triple the premium for low-risk cars.
If your insurer has raised your premium, then consider switching to a different car. Newer cars normally have lower insurance costs and are a better financial choice in the long run.
Reduced Bookings and Priority
Platforms like Uber and Bolt prefer newer and safer cars. Passengers also prefer to travel in modern and comfortable vehicles, increasing the chances of repeat bookings and good reviews. If you notice a drop in the bookings, this might be because your vehicle isn’t up to the mark. Consider replacing it with a newer model to get more bookings.
Start Earning Today.
Final Thoughts
Knowing when to upgrade your PCO car is important to avoid complications later. Many drivers believe that older cars are economical. However, their hidden costs practically outweigh the price of getting a newer car. When you consider everything from lost earnings to extra fuel costs and high insurance premiums, it makes more sense to drive a newer model. So, beware of the warning signs your car shows and replace it in time to avoid unwanted expenses and fines.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old can a car be for PCO use?
Cars that are older than 10 years aren’t allowed for PCO use in London. So, if your car is nearing this age, then consider replacing it.
Who can use my PCO car?
Anyone can use your PCO car if you own it. However, those who use PCO car hire service should check their contract terms first before allowing someone else to use their car.
What happens when your car fails an MOT test?
Your PCO car must have a valid MOT certificate to be considered roadworthy. Failing an MOT means it’s no longer valid for PCO use.
Suggested Blogs
To get more information like this
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get a Well-Maintained, Low-Risk Car with Fleeto and Drive Stress-Free!
From saloons to SUVs and 7-seaters, every car in our fleet is insured and reliable. Plus, with regular servicing and maintenance done by our in-house technicians, you can drive with confidence, knowing that your car is always ready for the job.
