Things to Check When Returning a Leased Car

After you return your vehicle to a dealership, the leasing bank takes the vehicle from the dealer. Once the bank receives the vehicle, it inspects the mileage, as well as checking for excessive wear-and-tear. You might avoid some lease-end fees by inspecting the vehicle yourself or allowing the leasing bank to provide a complimentary inspection.

Check for Vehicle Damages

Inspect your vehicle for damage. The cost of even minor vehicle damage is likely to exceed your wear-and-tear allowance. The wear-and-tear allowance differs by leasing bank, so review your contract to determine your allowance. This allowance covers light vehicle wear, such as light scratches in the paint, slight tire wear or seat wear. It does not cover body damage, ripped seats or stained carpets. If your vehicle has body damage, submit a claim to your insurance company and pay your deductible. Your deductible is probably less money than the leasing bank's repair cost, which you'll have to pay.

Complete an Inspection

Rather than worry if your leasing bank will charge excess wear-and-tear fees, take advantage of your leasing bank's optional inspection. Most leasing banks allow lessees to arrange a free inspection of the leased vehicle. The inspector can usually meet you at your convenience, whether at a dealership, your home or place of employment. The inspector goes over the car and offers suggestions to help you avoid lease-end fees.

Review and Make Copies of Your Paperwork

Review and complete your lease-end paperwork before returning the vehicle to expedite the return process. Expect to receive a lease-end packet, which includes the paperwork you'll provide to a dealer upon returning the lease. If you're over mileage, your leasing bank may expect payment at the time you return the lease. If you haven't received your paperwork, contact your bank. Otherwise, keep a copy of any lease-end paperwork you sign. Provide your returning dealer with copies (not originals) of the vehicle's service history or leave it in the glove box to avoid charges for maintenance fees.

Clean Your Vehicle and Return Vehicle Items

Have your vehicle washed and detailed before you return it. The leasing bank won't detail the car to determine if its damaged or stained, but may charge you for excess wear-and-tear because of the vehicle's appearance. Return your vehicle with any accessories you received, such as extra keys, floor mats or removable parts, such as a roof rack or remote controls for a DVD system. Remove all of your personal information from the car, such as lease paperwork from the owner's manual, insurance cards and registration.