You've been leasing your car for around three to four years now. As the end of the lease approaches, the leasing company will reach out to begin the return process. One of the key steps in this process is a vehicle inspection.
At this point, you might be wondering if you'll face extra charges. Typically, the leasing company will bill you for any damage that goes beyond what's considered normal wear and tear. But what exactly counts as "normal"? Let's break it down.
What Counts as Normal Wear and Tear?
The leasing company wants to resell or re-lease your car, so they aim to minimize repair costs to maximize their profit. If the damage appears to exceed standard repairs, you may be responsible for those expenses. Here are some common issues that could result in additional charges:
- Dents, dings, scratches, or scrapes on the body, bumper, or wheels
- Curbed or damaged wheels
- Cracks, pitting, or spiderwebbing on the windshield or windows
- Excessive tire wear that goes beyond average
- Stains on upholstery that can't be cleaned easily
- Tears or rips in the interior that require more than basic repair
To avoid unexpected costs, it's wise to prepare your car ahead of time by cleaning it thoroughly and addressing minor issues before the inspection.
How the Inspection Process Works
As the lease end date nears, the leasing company will typically contact you about 90 days in advance. They’ll present you with several options, such as returning the car, buying it, leasing another vehicle, or extending your lease month-to-month.
You’ll also receive a buyout price and the contact details of an independent inspection service. From there, you’ll need to schedule an appointment with them. A qualified inspector will come to your home or workplace to assess your car, which usually takes about 45 minutes.
During the inspection, the technician will measure the depth and size of any dents, scratches, or other damages. This data is entered into a system that calculates the estimated repair cost. Afterward, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining all issues beyond normal wear and tear along with their associated costs.
What You Can Do to Prepare
It’s always better to stay one step ahead. Before the leasing company contacts you, consider these tips:
- Understand what’s evaluated. Check the manufacturer’s website for guidelines on what counts as normal wear and tear. Usually, anything larger than a credit card is considered excessive. The inspector will check the exterior, interior, mechanical parts, windows, lights, and tires.
- Check your mileage. Are you close to the 36,000-mile limit? Once you pass this threshold, you may be charged per mile, so it’s wise to keep track.
- Get your car cleaned and prepped. Wash your car to remove dirt and grime. Don’t forget to take out personal items. Consider getting a full detail and paintless dent repair to boost its appearance.
- Replace your tires early. If you're on a three-year lease, replace your tires after two years. Waiting until the inspection could lead to charges for premature wear.
- Schedule a second inspection if needed. If you fix the car yourself, arrange a second inspection to ensure everything is done correctly and no new issues were missed.
If you're nearing the end of your lease and need help with repairs or inspections, DaSilva’s Auto Body can assist with everything from detailing to mechanical work. Contact us today to book an appointment and make sure your car is in top condition for the final inspection.
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