Lease End Process: Key Takeaways
- Your lease end is more than just a return date. It’s a decision point: should you return the car, buy it, finance it, or start fresh with a new lease?
- Don’t wait until the final month, as things move fast. Give yourself 60 to 90 days so you’re not scrambling for inspections or stuck with a rushed decision
- Pre-return inspections can save you money. Catch small damage early and repair it for less than what the dealership might charge you later
- Mileage and wear matter. Going over your mileage limit or returning a car with excessive wear could cost you hundreds, sometimes more
- You might have equity in your lease. If your car’s market value is higher than the buyout price, you could buy it and resell, or keep it and skip the fees
- Lease End Department can make this easy. From buyout loans to paperwork to plate delivery, we help you skip the dealership and own your lease-end decision
Lease ending soon? You’re not the only one asking: what now?
Around 47% of lease buyouts in 2024 were completed by drivers under the age of 45, signaling a growing shift toward keeping the car you already know rather than jumping into a new lease.
Fees, inspections, timelines, there’s a lot coming at you. But knowing what’s ahead means fewer surprises and way less stress.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- What the lease end process looks like from start to finish
- Common fees to expect and how to avoid them
- The difference between returning, renewing, or buying out your lease
- When to schedule inspections and gather your documents
- Practical tips to reduce last-minute costs and surprises
How To Prepare for the End of Lease Process
Get ahead of fees, inspections, and stress with this quick lease-end prep list:
- Know your lease maturity date: Write down your lease end date somewhere you’ll see it. Set a few phone alerts at 90 days, 60, then 30, so it doesn’t sneak up on you
- Recheck your lease terms: Look at mileage limits, wear-and-tear standards, and your residual value
- Schedule a pre-inspection: Aim for 30–60 days before return so you can fix small issues affordably
- Request your buyout quote: This helps you decide if buying your car is smarter than returning it
- Explore your next move: Compare lease buyout loans, new lease deals, or return options early
One driver on a lease forum shared, “The best deal I got was leasing a 2013 Nissan Leaf. The residual was around $18k, and Nissan offered to let me buy it at the end for $8,500.” They mentioned having done the same with Audi and VW leases, sometimes negotiating a better buyout near the end. Deals like that aren’t guaranteed, but they show why it pays to ask early.
Step‑by‑Step Lease Return Process
Whether you’re planning to return your leased car, buy it out, or start fresh with a new one, following a timeline can save you time, stress, and money.
Here’s how the lease return process typically unfolds:
Step 1: 90–120 Days Before Lease End
This is your early prep window, and it’s where smart planning begins:
- Set a reminder for your lease maturity date so it doesn’t sneak up on you
- Schedule your pre-inspection with the leasing company or a certified center
- Request your lease buyout quote and compare it to your car’s market value
- Check your mileage against your allowed limit, and adjust driving habits if needed
- Look for early loyalty offers if you’re considering a new lease from the same brand
Step 2: 30–60 Days Before Lease End
This is your decision window, time to commit to your next move:
- Decide: Will you return the car, buy it out, or lease something new?
If returning:
- Schedule your final inspection
- Take care of minor repairs, touch-ups, or cleaning
If buying or re-leasing:
- Apply for financing or lease pre-approval
- Set up a trade-in or vehicle return plan
Step 3: Return Day and What Happens Next
This is your handoff moment. Make sure it goes smoothly:
- Bring the car in for final inspection, including an odometer reading
- Pay any remaining fees, like disposition, excess mileage, or wear and tear
If buying out:
- Sign paperwork
- Transfer the title
- Secure financing if you haven’t already
Keep all documentation: Receipts, inspection reports, and handover records, in case fees pop up later
Inspection and Documentation Checklist
Before handing back your leased car or buying it out, it pays to be prepared. Use this checklist to avoid last-minute surprises:
Exterior and Interior Inspection
Think of this as your car’s lease-return glow-up. Give it a close look in good light. What you find now could save you money later:
- Walk around your vehicle in daylight to spot dents, dings, or scratches over 2 inches
- Check the tires and wheels for curb rash, uneven wear, or tread depth below 4/32″
- Look at all glass (windshield, mirrors, windows) for cracks or chips
- Inspect the interior for torn upholstery, stains, or excessive wear on the seats and trim
Maintenance and Mechanical Checks
A car in good mechanical shape is less likely to trigger extra fees.
Take a few simple steps to make sure everything’s in working order:
- Make sure all lights, wipers, and signals work properly
- Top off fluids like oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid
- Complete any overdue maintenance (especially oil changes or brake service)
- Gather your service records, as these help show you’ve taken good care of the car
Documents To Prepare
Having the right paperwork in hand can make your lease return or buyout go much smoother. Here’s what to gather ahead of time:
- Original lease agreement
- Vehicle registration and current insurance
- Inspection report (if you had a pre-return inspection)
- Lease buyout quote (if you’re thinking of purchasing the vehicle)
- Any receipts for recent repairs or maintenance
Bonus Tip: Take Photos
A few snapshots today can save you headaches tomorrow. Protect yourself with a quick photo record, just in case:
- Snap clear, timestamped photos of the exterior, interior, odometer, and any pre-existing damage
- These can help protect you in case there’s a fee dispute later on
Make Your Lease End Process Simple With Lease End Department
Not a fan of surprises? Neither are we. The lease end process doesn’t have to be confusing or expensive. Whether you’re planning to return your car, buy it out, or start fresh with something new, a little planning can go a long way.
Here’s how we help drivers finish strong:
- Free lease-end reviews to walk you through your best next move
- Buyout support from A to Z, paperwork, financing, title, and tags handled for you
- Transparent answers, zero dealership pressure
- Available in all 50 states with 100% online convenience
Don’t just return your lease. Make a confident move. Start your lease-end journey with Lease End Department today and keep the car you already know and trust, on your terms.
Plus, we specialize in lease buyouts for popular brands, including:
End of Lease Process: FAQs
From timing and inspections to fees and buyout options, here are the answers lessees ask most, explained simply, so you can move forward with confidence.
What is the lease end process?
The lease end process refers to everything that happens in the final 90–120 days of your car lease. This includes inspections, deciding whether to return or buy the car, handling paperwork, and paying any fees. It’s your window to evaluate options, avoid penalties, and make the smoothest next move, whether that means a new lease, a buyout, or handing back the keys.
When should I start preparing for lease return?
Start preparing 90 to 120 days before your lease ends. That’s when most leasing companies send reminders and offer pre-return inspections. This early window gives you time to check your car’s condition, compare your options, and fix anything that could result in end-of-lease fees.
What are the most common fees at lease end?
The most common lease end fees include:
- Disposition fees (usually $350–$500)
- Excess mileage charges (around $0.15–$0.30 per mile over your limit)
- Wear-and-tear penalties for damage beyond “normal use”
You can often avoid or reduce these by scheduling an early inspection or opting for a lease buyout instead of a return.
Do I need an inspection before returning my leased car?
Yes, most leasing companies require a vehicle inspection before lease return. You can usually schedule this 30–60 days before your lease ends. It’s a great opportunity to fix any issues that could lead to charges, and it gives you more control over the return process.
What are my options at the end of a lease?
Most people think they only have two choices: return it or get a new one, but you’ve got three.
- Return the car and walk away (after paying any fees)
- Buy out the lease and keep the vehicle
- Start a new lease with the same or different brand
Each path comes with pros and cons, so it’s worth comparing your costs and priorities before you decide.
Can I buy my leased car before the contract ends?
Yes, that’s called an early lease buyout. You’ll need to request your payoff quote from the lender, which includes the remaining lease balance, the residual value, and any fees. Early buyouts can be smart if your car is worth more than what you owe.
How can Lease End Department help with my lease return?
Lease End Department simplifies your entire end-of-lease process.
We help with:
- Reviewing your lease and vehicle condition
- Exploring lease buyout options and financing
- Handling paperwork, registration, and even shipping your plates
You don’t have to deal with the dealership or guess what comes next. We make it easy, fully online.
