As we near the end of the year, many drivers are coming to the end of their lease term and planning to start the year with a new vehicle. But if your vehicle’s has exterior damage you could start off the year with a huge repair bill from the dealership. Here’s how you can avoid overpaying.
Understanding Lease Terms and Lease Inspection
Usually about 60-90 days prior to your lease termination date, the finance company or lease holder will call to schedule a vehicle inspection. This inspection will provide a detailed report listing any excessive wear and tear items.
Ultimately you’ll want to review your lease contract, to determine wear and tear expectations, but generally speaking, here’s what could be considered excessive wear and tear.
- Exterior dings, scuffs, scrapes and damage that cannot easily be buffed out.
- Tears, burns, cuts, stains or discoloration to the interior fabrics or leather, larger than half-inch in diameter.
- Cracks, gouges, or damage to the car’s interior.
- Lower than acceptable tire depth.
- Damage to the windshield or other glass, greater than half-inch in area.
- Damage to lights, lamps and signals greater than 2 inches.
- Anything missing or broken/non-functioning.
Additional Lease Turn-In Considerations
Modifications and Customizations
Exterior damage isn’t the only thing you’ll be on the hook for. Customizations, for example, tinted glass, engine tuning and suspension upgrades could bring you a hefty repair bill. Even though some customizations may seem like you’re adding value to the vehicle, they still are modifications and can violate lease terms.
Maintenance
Most manufacturer’s warranties cover mechanical issues, but not damages caused by neglecting your vehicle’s maintenance. Make sure to read your contract clearly to understand your specific responsibilities for maintenance.
Guidelines may include:
- Oil change within a certain range of either mileage and/or time
- Routine tune-ups
- Tire pressure and condition are within the acceptable range
- Brakes are still in acceptable condition and/or changed as needed
Need End of Lease Repairs?
Getting ready to turn in your lease? If you’re worried about dents or any other auto body damage, the PPAB crew has you covered.
After over three decades of experience, we know what the leasing companies are looking for. We will inspect your vehicle and make repairs if necessary, following the standard Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) procedures. This is crucial as any replacement part that doesn’t meet manufacturer’s specifications will not be accepted by your leasing company.
