When to Detail a Leased Car Before Lease Return
Detail your leased car 1-2 weeks before turn-in. A $325-$375 Full Premier Detail can save you $500-$2,000 in excess wear-and-tear charges from the lease company.
What lease return inspectors actually look for, and what they charge
When you return a leased vehicle, a third-party inspector hired by the leasing company, ALLY, BMW Financial Services, Mercedes-Benz Financial, Chase Auto, and others all use the same process, walks the vehicle and documents every item that falls outside "normal wear and tear." The definition of normal wear is narrow. Interior stains on carpet or fabric beyond a small surface spot are charged.
The math: why a $325-$375 detail typically saves more than it costs
The Full Premier Detail is $325 for a sedan and $375 for an SUV. That service covers the complete interior, steam extraction of all carpet and fabric, steam cleaning of every door panel and plastic surface, interior glass, and seat cleaning, plus the full exterior decontamination sequence.
Interior Reset vs Full Premier Detail: which service to book for lease return
For most lease returns, the Interior Reset at $225 for a sedan or $275 for an SUV is sufficient if the exterior is in acceptable condition without significant paint contamination. The Interior Reset covers the complete interior process, compressed air blowout of all vents and crevices, full vacuum, Carpet Bomber fabric treatment, McCulloch 212-degree steam extraction of all carpet and upholstery, steam cleaning of all door panels and plastics, seat cleaning, and interior glass.
The documentation advantage: photos before turn-in
One of the practical advantages of having a professional mobile detail done before lease return is the documentation it creates. After a Premier Detailing appointment, the vehicle is in the best condition it is going to be for the inspection.
When to schedule before your lease return date
Book the detail one to two weeks before your scheduled lease return date. That window gives you time to identify any issues the detail reveals that you might want to address separately, a windshield chip, a curb rash touch-up, a wheel repair, before the inspection.
By Joe Young, Owner, Premier Detailing LLC | Published