How to Return a Leased Vehicle Early

Car leases are good options for people who need low monthly payments on a car. A lease is basically a short-term contract requiring you to make payments for a certain number of years. At the end of the time period, you return the car to the dealership. If you decide to turn the car in early, this is called breaking your lease. While it is possible to do so, be aware that penalty fees typically apply.

Instructions

1

Wash the entire vehicle as well as vacuum the interior and wipe down the insides. You want the car to be in perfect condition when you return it so that you will not receive damage fees on top of any other early termination fees.

2

Take pictures of the interior and the exterior of the car from every single angle. Store these in a safe location for future reference. These pictures provide proof that you returned the vehicle in good condition in case the dealership claims that you did not.

3

Read your lease agreement carefully to determine which early termination fees you are required to pay. There will always be a lump-sum termination fee, but some contracts also require you to pay for the remaining number of months on the lease.

4

Transfer the amount of required money into your bank account so that you can pay it as soon as you turn the car in.

5

Call the dealership and explain that you want to return the leased car early. Make an appointment with the leasing manager to turn the car in.

6

Take the leased car, along with all keys and key fobs, to the dealership at the designated time. Pay all outstanding fees and get a signed copy of the receipt stating that you are no longer responsible for the vehicle.