Repair guide
Should You Repair Scratches Before Returning a Lease?
By K SAM Automotive Inc. · Updated
The short answer
Usually it is worth getting a repair estimate and comparing it with what the leasing company will charge for the same damage. If the repair costs less than the lease return charges, fixing it first saves money.
Know what counts as wear and tear
Most leases allow normal wear and tear and charge for damage beyond it. Your lease agreement or the leasing company's wear guide explains the limits, often with examples of scratch length and dent size. Read it before deciding.
Compare the two numbers
Get your vehicle pre inspected if the leasing company offers it, so you know exactly what they will charge for. Then get a repair estimate for the same items. Repair the items where the estimate is lower and leave the rest.
Scratches that polish out vs scratches that need paint
If you cannot catch a fingernail in a scratch, it is often in the clear coat and can be polished out at low cost. If your nail catches, it has gone deeper and usually needs refinishing.
Leave enough time
Start a few weeks before the return date so there is time for the estimate, parts if needed, and the repair itself.
Common questions
Do lease returns charge for small scratches?
It depends on the lease. Many allow small scratches as normal wear and charge for scratches beyond a set size. Check your lease's wear guide.
Will a polished scratch pass a lease inspection?
A scratch that polishes out completely is usually not visible to an inspector. Deeper scratches need refinishing to disappear.
