Returning a Leased Car with Damage

If you’ve been leasing a vehicle, and you’re coming to the end of your lease term, it’s a simple process to return your vehicle and get a new one. However, what happens if you damage a leased car? If you have caused damage to leased cars or have scratches on leased cars, then you may have to pay fees or incur additional charges. Learn more about returning a leased car with damage from our finance team at Lexus of Tampa Bay so you know what to expect. 

Damage to Leased Car – Check Your Lease Agreement

If you found scratches on your leased car or a dent, you will likely have to pay for it. More than likely you agreed to return the vehicle in its original condition (or close to it). Some contracts have a little bit more flexibility, and if you’ve found some damage on your vehicle then you should refer back to your own lease agreement to determine what your own situation looks like. Dealerships will not diminish the costs if you upgrade to a new vehicle, but will likely roll over the costs to your next contract in Town 'N' Country. 

What Happens if You Damage a Leased Car? How to Return Your Car

Prior to returning your Brandon leased vehicle, we suggest you consider taking a few steps to either minimize the cost to you or determine if the scratches on your leased car or other damage are covered by insurance or warranties. Explore the details of what to do before returning a leased car with damage below: 

1. Call Your Insurance Company

One of our recommendations if the damage is significant enough to cause concern, is to chat with your insurance company. If you have a full-coverage insurance policy you will likely have protection against damage to your leased cars. You may have GAP insurance with additional coverage as well.

2. Review Warranty Coverage

If you choose to lease a new vehicle, there is a chance you could still be under warranty. If the area of your vehicle that’s damaged is still covered under warranty, you will have nothing to worry about. Explore your warranty coverage and chat with our service team if the part you need to replace is covered so you don’t have to worry about being charged for the work.

3. Replace Damaged Parts with Genuine OEM Parts

If the damage isn’t covered under your insurance or warranty, but you think you can save money by fixing the damage yourself at a service center, go for it! However, be sure that the service center uses genuine OEM parts. Your lease agreement could become void leaving you responsible for additional charges and fees if you use anything but genuine OEM parts.

4. Pre-Lease Return Inspection

If your lease agreement is coming to an end and none of the options above seem like the path for you, we recommend scheduling a pre-lease return inspection. This way you’ll have an idea of what to expect if you have damage to leased cars and need to return your leased vehicle.

Return Your Leased Vehicle at Lexus of Tampa Bay!

Now that you know what happens if you damage a leased car, you have the knowledge of what to do moving forward. You can always fall back on our team in Tampa to help determine the best path moving forward. If you still have questions about returning your Riverview ride, contact our team at Lexus of Tampa Bay. If you’re looking to get a new lease, check out our Lexus lease specials today!