Dealers and manufacturers have become much more vigilant in passing on the costs of repairing and reconditioning vehicles returned at the end of their leases. Often, whether a part needs to be replaced or merely repaired is a judgment call. See APA’s tips for returning a leased vehicle. Think of a dented bumper for example. The choice between repair and replacement may be subjective but the cost of replacing a bumper is almost certainly much higher. In today’s environment, neither the dealer nor the inspection company designated by the lessor is likely to choose the less expensive option. After the economic meltdown in 2008, the APA began to receive more complaints from consumers who felt they were overcharged for vehicle reconditioning.
Obtaining a second, independent opinion is a good idea. A few weeks before the end of your lease term, you will be contacted by the lessor. If you choose to return the vehicle at the end of the lease, it will be examined by either the dealer or an inspection company to determine what repairs, if any, are necessary. You may be given an estimate and a choice to have the vehicle repaired by the dealer or on your own.
Sometimes, the best strategy is to take care of obvious problem areas even before meeting the inspection company or the dealer. Possibly an inexpensive repair or touch-up will allow the problem area to be passed over or deemed adequate by the inspection company. The APA approved inspection service will provide you with a list of items you should attend to and, if applicable, a repair estimate and recommendation of who to see for see for the repairs. The service is offered at no-charge with the APA membership.
Contact the APA for further details at 416 204-1444, or email us at apatoronto@apa.ca
Contact Mathew Cacciatore at Serpa Automotive Boutique in Aurora for a lease return appraisal. 905-841-7377
Serpa Automotive Boutique
15795 Yonge St., Aurora, ON. L4G 1P4
Contact Mathew Cacciatore, 905-841-7377
Services offered include: Luxury Pre-Owned Vehicle Sales, full service and parts departments, window tinting, stoneguarding, detailing, ceramic paint coating, paint restoration, custom floor mats.