What You Should Know About End-of-Lease Repairs
You've been driving a leased vehicle for around three to four years. As the end of your lease nears, the leasing company will reach out to start the return process. One of the key steps is a thorough vehicle inspection.
At this point, you might be wondering if you'll face extra charges. In most cases, the leasing company will bill you for any damage beyond normal wear and tear. But what exactly counts as excessive?
What’s Considered Normal Wear and Tear?
The leasing company wants to sell or re-lease your car at the highest possible value, so they’ll only make minimal repairs. If the damage looks like it would cost more than average to fix, you may be responsible for those costs. Here are some common issues that could lead to additional charges:
- Exterior dents, dings, scratches, or paint chips
- Curbed or damaged wheels
- Cracks, pitting, or spiderwebbing on windshields and windows
- Unusual tire wear (e.g., uneven tread or bald spots)
- Stains on upholstery that can’t be cleaned easily
- Tears or rips in seats that require more than basic repair
To avoid a big surprise when returning your car, it's wise to clean and repair it ahead of time. A well-maintained car not only helps you save money but also makes the return process smoother.
How the Inspection Process Works
As the lease expiration date approaches, the leasing company usually contacts you about 90 days in advance. They’ll offer several options, such as returning the car, buying it, leasing another vehicle, or extending the lease month-to-month.
They’ll also provide a buyout price and contact details for an independent inspection service. You’ll need to schedule an appointment with this third-party company. The inspector will come to your home or workplace and spend about 45 minutes assessing the condition of your car.
During the inspection, the technician will measure the size and depth of all visible damage and input the data into a system that calculates repair costs. Afterward, you’ll receive a detailed report listing every issue beyond normal wear and tear along with the estimated repair costs.
What You Can Do Before the Inspection
It’s always better to be proactive. Here are a few things you can do before the leasing company reaches out:
- Understand what’s evaluated. Check the manufacturer’s website for guidelines on what counts as normal wear and tear. Typically, anything larger than a credit card is considered excessive. Inspectors look at the exterior, interior, mechanical systems, windows, lights, and tires.
- Check your mileage. If you're close to the 36,000-mile limit, you might be charged per mile for every mile over. Keep track and plan accordingly.
- Get your car cleaned and repaired. Wash your car thoroughly, remove personal items, and consider professional detailing. Paintless dent repair and minor touch-ups can go a long way in improving your car’s appearance.
- Replace your tires early. If you have a three-year lease, replace your tires after two years. Waiting until the inspection will result in charges for excessive wear.
- Consider a second inspection. If you make repairs on your own, ask for a follow-up inspection to ensure everything is fixed properly and nothing else is left unresolved.
If you’re nearing the end of your lease and need help with repairs or maintenance, DaSilva’s Auto Body can assist with everything from detailing to mechanical work. Don’t wait—schedule your appointment today to ensure a smooth return process.
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