Lease Return Checklist

Before the End of Your Lease

After a few years of driving your leased vehicle, you’ll find the end of your lease term suddenly approaching. There will generally be a little bit of preparation needed on your part to ensure that the process goes smoothly, so take some time to complete these steps

• Decide what you’ll want to do at the end of your lease
• Prepare your vehicle for an inspection
• Schedule an appointment at the lease return center

You’ll have three main options at the end of your lease. You could return the vehicle and walk away, return it and lease another model, or buy the vehicle out for the remainder of its value. Whatever you choose to do will require slightly different steps, but if you plan to return the vehicle, you’ll have to get it inspected.

Prepare for the Inspection

Some dealers will want you to schedule the inspection ahead of time and have the inspector come to you. If you aren’t sure what you should do, consult your lease or contact one of our team members for some guidance.

Before your vehicle get inspected, however, you’ll want to make sure it’s looking its best. In general, the inspector is going to be looking for anything beyond normal wear and tear, so if there are any small aesthetic issues you could easily repair, take some time to work on them.

Treat any stains or tears in the interior upholstery, vacuum up any dirt and debris, and buff out scratches and dents in the exterior. Take some time to check your tires, too. If they’re looking worn out or damaged, consider getting them replaced before the inspection.

Overall, you’ll want to get your vehicle gleaming before the inspection.

Visit a Lease Return Center

When all is said and done, you’re ready to return the vehicle. Make an appointment with the lease return center and make sure you have everything you need. Gather up any spare keys and consider taking some time to refamiliarize yourself with your lease paperwork.

When you return your vehicle, there will likely be a few final documents and fees to handle. Then, you’ll hand over your keys, and get ready to take your next steps!