Leased Luxury Car? Best Detailing Tips Before Return

Leasing has become a popular way to enjoy the benefits of a new car without the long-term commitment of ownership. Especially in the luxury auto leasing market, where high-end vehicles demand top-tier upkeep, lease return charges can be surprisingly expensive.

Many drivers are caught off guard by unexpected wear-and-tear penalties. For best results, it’s more than just returning a clean car in good condition. It’s more about taking proactive steps to maintain the vehicle throughout the lease period so it can be returned in excellent condition.

Luxury car owners should know that professional detailing services adds value to their investment. For those who choose to lease, protecting your investment is more than just regular washing. There are strategic techniques to care for the vehicle’s appearance that professional detailers can supply.

This comprehensive guide share professional best practices for the best ways care for your leased luxury car to maximize the residual value at the end of your lease.

Got the DIY Bug?

If you prefer to do these yourself and want to learn more, visit New Again Auto Detail. There, you’ll find professional tips, explaining the process of thoroughly cleaning and maintaining your car’s appearance. Regular care, done the right way, can protect your investment whether it is you own or leased.

Understand What Counts as Wear-and-Tear

Before diving into detailing, it’s important to know what leasing companies consider “normal” wear versus “excessive” wear. Remember, they’ve been doing this for a long time. They have the experience that suggests to them where normal wear and tear ends and chargeable damage begins.

Some of the common issues found in the world of luxury car care that can be considered “chargeable” are:

• Scratched or chipped paint
• Dents or dings
• Stained upholstery
• Worn tires or rims
• Excessive dirt or pet hair inside the cabin

Knowing these areas of focus will help you pay attention to the matters that should command your meticulous attention. These areas are where your efforts matter the most.

Interior Detailing Tips to Prevent Charges

Car detailers know the importance of a meticulous process of cleaning a car’s interior. After all, with all the touch points and close-at-hand intricate details, keeping the interior is excellent condition is much more than keeping the glass surfaces clean.

It is the interior is where drivers often lose the most points during lease inspections. From leather seats to many delicate surfaces, here’s how to avoid those charge-backs:

Vacuum Regularly

Dirt buildup can cause permanent discoloration and even wear over time. Focus on footwells, seats, and between cushions. Pay special attention to floor mats, since the continuous contact of dirt between shoes and the fabric can quickly wear them.

An indicator of a well-maintained car is a clean car. Harsh weather conditions can add to the amount of grime tracked inside.

Use Fabric Protectants

Sprays like Scotchgard help repel stains and offer long-lasting protection on seats and carpets. Choosing the right products – and using them carefully – can be an effective way to avoid excess wear.

Clean Spills Immediately

Don’t let liquids or oils settle into fabrics. Time is as much of a danger as the liquid itself. Keep a microfiber towel in your glove box and be ready to address any spills quickly.

Leather Maintenance

Quality leather is a universal symbol of luxury, but it does require special care. Use, time, ultraviolet rays, and more all can dry out – or worse – your leather upholstery. Use a quality leather cleaner and conditioner to prevent cracks and maintain that special aesthetic appeal.

Odor Elimination

We all know that “new car smell.” It is unmistakable. However, over time we get desensitized to it and other odors that might creep in. People, pets, foot, and more all add to spells that slowly soak in. If we can’t smell it, we can’t address it.

Before you turn in your leased vehicle (ideally, periodically while you have it) use an ozone generator or charcoal-based odor eliminator to remove lingering smells. This can be especially effective on the smoke or pet odors that we eventually tune out.

Exterior Detailing Tips to Protect Paint and Trim

When returning your leased vehicle, having it be in pristine condition isn’t realistic. After all, you’ve used the car. However, a well-maintained exterior along with a paint surface that is in excellent condition gives the strongest impression of how you’ve cared for it — and reduces the chances of excess damage fees.

Here’s some tips to achieve the best outcome:

• Wash Weekly: Road grime, bird droppings, and tree sap can permanently damage the clear coat. Regular car washes helps prevent any buildup.
• Apply Sealant or Wax: This adds a protective layer against UV rays, oxidation, and contaminants. You can consider ceramic coating, but a thorough wash using high-quality car was soap and an occasional wax treatment is likely adequate to care for your car’s surface.
• Fix Minor Scratches Yourself: Use scratch remover kits for superficial damage before turning the car in. Choose from among the best products and if you’re unsure about techniques, contact a professional.
• Clean Rims and Tires: Lease inspectors check for curb rash and excessive tire wear. Dress tires and polish rims regularly.
• Protect the Headlights: Use UV protectants to prevent fogging and yellowing.

Don’t Skip the Engine Bay (Optional but Impressive!)

While not always required, a clean engine bay shows you’ve taken care of the car thoroughly. It’s understood that’s the business end of a car’s operations, but keeping it clean can work as extra credit points.

First and foremost, avoid pressure washing. Under high pressure, water can get into places where it shouldn’t. Instead, use a damp cloth and if needed, some degreaser. For plastic parts, wipe them down with a wet microfiber cloth and a mild cleaner.

Taking just a few extra minutes each time you wash your car can keep any buildup to a minimum and can add to your residual value.

Perform a Pre-Return Inspection

Most dealerships offer a free pre-inspection a few weeks before the lease ends. Take advantage of this and fix any issues in advance. Often, they will be minor in scope, but can be very impactful during the turn-in walk-around.

Bonus Tip

Documenting your detailing routine can add some value if there’s ever a dispute. Wear and tear charges can be negotiated, but you need to have some proof of your efforts, either with a log and/or some photos.

Be Prepared for End of Lease

Avoiding wear-and-tear charges on a leased car doesn’t require professional services — just a bit of regular maintenance and smart detailing. Tending to some basics to keep your car looking brand new can potentially save hundreds (if not thousands) at lease-end.

A little effort now pays off big when it’s time to turn in the keys.