Avoid expensive lease return fees with our affordable rates!

Take the stress out of your upcoming lease return inspection AND save money! 

We know what leasing companies will deem as 'excess wear and tear' at a return inspection.  To avoid being charged high dealership repair rates for these damages, come to us first. We will examine your vehicle, identify repair issues, and provide you with a FREE ESTIMATE for a pre-return repair strategy.

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​What auto body damage is considered 'excess wear and tear' on a leased vehicle? 

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• Dings, dents, scratches:

Any scratch, dent, or paint chip that is larger than a credit card (known in the industry as "the credit card test") is considered excess wear and tear and chargeable.

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​​However, damages aren't considered on an individual basis alone - while one small dent might be forgiven, several small dents appearing in multiple areas of the vehicle will usually be classed as excess wear and tear.

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​Additionally, depth matters: scratches that reach metal, even if they are smaller than a credit card, are nearly always deemed excess wear and tear (due to future rust development potential).

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• Bumpers: 

Bumper scuffs will usually be considered normal wear & tear and forgiven if they are surface level and contained to a small area.

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However, tears in the plastic, significant gouges, or signs of misalignment where the bumper pulls away from the fender will be considered excess wear and tear. 

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Additionally, the underside of bumpers will also be checked for hidden damage from contact with steep driveways, cement curbs, speed bumps, and parking barriers. 

 

• ​Windshields:

Any chip or crack in the windshield falling within the driver's 'critical viewing area' that's  larger than a loonie will be considered excess wear and tear.  As will any smaller chips if they are deemed to compromise the glass's overall structural integrity.

 

• Light covers:

Deep scratches or cracks in plastic light coverings are also considered excess wear and tear.  A cracked lighting unit can trap moisture and compromise its electronic integrity - which may necessitate replacing the entire light assembly in the future.  

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How to return a leased vehicle without paying too much? 

​Be strategic, plan in advance. Get a repair estimate 30-60 days before your return date.  This will allow enough time to source cost-saving after-market parts (if needed), and avoid a rental car on more extensive damages by scheduling repairs in stages (if needed).      

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What are common end-of-lease fees charged by leasing companies?

There are 4 main categories:

• administrative return fees

• excess mileage charges

• excess wear and tear

• missing items (keys, fobs, floor mats, owners manual, maintenance book)

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Located near Runnymede & St. Clair, we're just a short drive for our customers in The Junction, High Park, Bloor West Village, Kingsway, and Roncesvalles neighbourhoods.

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