ACVL The End of the Lease

At the End of the Lease

(Lease-specific terms shown in blue link to the glossary. To print these questions and answers, use the Print Materials menu.)

33. At the end of the lease term, can I turn in the vehicle at a dealership other than the one from which I took delivery?
34. What is considered "normal wear and tear"?
35. What should I do to find out whether I will be charged for excess wear and tear on my vehicle?
36. How long will it take to get my security deposit back?
37. If my replacement vehicle that I have ordered is not in when my lease ends, can I continue leasing my current vehicle?

Q33. At the end of the lease term, can I turn in the vehicle at a dealership other than the one from which I took delivery?
A. Lessors have a range of different policies concerning the return of leased vehicles at the end of the term. If the lessor's or assignee's policy is for you to return the vehicle to the originating dealership or leasing company, then, upon request, you may be able to return the vehicle to any dealership affiliated with that lessor. On the other hand, you may need to return the vehicle to a specific location; check your lease agreement for details.
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Q34. What is considered "normal wear and tear"?
A. Any wear to the vehicle that is not defined as "excess" is "normal." Each lessor's standard for "excess" wear and tear is found in the lease agreement. Typical examples of excess wear and tear include:

  • Broken or missing parts
  • Dented or damaged body panels or trim
  • Cuts, tears, burns or permanent stains in the fabric or carpet
  • Excessively worn tires
  • Cracked or broken glass
  • Poor quality repairs

In addition to being responsible for excess wear and tear, you are generally responsible for all scheduled maintenance and servicing including oil changes.
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Q35. What should I do to find out whether I will be charged for excess wear and tear on my vehicle?
A. Some lessors require or permit you to have the vehicle inspected for excess wear and tear prior to the scheduled termination date. This procedure gives you notice of any expected excess wear charges and an opportunity to repair or service the vehicle before it is returned. Your insurance policy may cover some of these repairs, and thus defray your cost.
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Q36. How long will it take to get my security deposit back?
A. Lessors have a range of different policies concerning the return of security deposits. Generally, the lessor will return your security deposit when you have paid: (1) all amounts due under the lease (including any end-of-term costs); (2) any taxes due such as personal property taxes; and (3) any other government fees such as parking tickets. Once these obligations are met, any remaining part of your refundable security deposit should be returned within a few days or weeks.
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Q37. If my replacement vehicle that I have ordered is not in when my lease ends, can I continue leasing my current vehicle?
A. Most lessors will allow you to extend the lease while waiting for a replacement vehicle. Generally, the lease extension is done on a month-to-month basis. If the extension is for more than 6 months, you should receive a new set of consumer leasing act disclosures.
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