Your top lease questions answered

Your Top Lease-End Questions Answered

Already dreaming of your next lease and wondering how the lease-end process works? We’ve got you covered. Below, find answers to the most frequently asked questions about leasing.

What happens at the end of my lease?

As your lease end approaches, that doesn’t have to mean the end of the road in a GM vehicle. Our lease-end options page is a great resource for answers about lease end, as is the dealership where you leased your vehicle. As you plan your next move, keep these options in mind:

1. Lease or buy a new vehicle.
   It’s never too early to see what’s available, so start exploring our new vehicle offers. Prepare some questions for your test drive and schedule a visit to your GM dealership.
2. Purchase your leased vehicle
   Love your ride? You can purchase your leased vehicle at any time during your lease period. Contact your dealership to discuss purchase or finance options, or visit Mode to learn more about lease buyout loans.¹
3. Turn in your vehicle
   Schedule you pre-return inspection, and make an appointment with your originating dealership so they're ready for you. Bring your owner’s manual, extra set of keys and any accessories that came with the vehicle.

Why do I need a lease-end inspection?

Think of the inspection as a helpful tool to ensure there are no surprises at lease end. A pre-return inspection within 90 days of lease end can help you get a full picture of your vehicle’s condition before turning it in. This includes things like excess wear or mileage charges.

If your lease is about to end, you can schedule this inspection at your dealership or at home or work for convenience by visiting OPENLANE Inspections. You can also contact us through MyAccount, or call us at 1-800-284-2271.

Will I owe anything at the end of my lease?

No matter which option you choose, you may owe additional amounts at lease end; see your lease agreement for details. Unless you purchase your current vehicle, you may also be responsible for excess wear charges, mile overages or disposition fees. Excess wear applies to any damage to the vehicle that’s more than normal, and mileage overage is just that — paying for any miles beyond the contracted amount. 

If allowed by your state, the disposition fee is a flat fee that is outlined in the lease agreement that covers the costs of preparing the vehicle for resale. Keep in mind, if you buy or lease a new GM vehicle or exercise the purchase option in your lease agreement, you won't be charged. Review your lease agreement for more information on which fees might apply.

You'll recieve a Lease-End Liability Invoice 30-45 days after returning your vehicle if you choose to do so. Im may include amounts due, such as excess wear, excess milage, disposition fee (if allowed by your state), tolls and other applicable charges. It may also include any amounts owed to you, if applicable. You can find more information in your lease agreement or on our Lease-End page.

Still have questions? We're here to help. Visit our FAQ page or log into MyAccount to connect with a Customer Experience team member and get the answers you need.

_{¹Mode's lease buyout program is not available in every state. Visit getmode.com for details.}

By Taylor Provost, GM Financial

Taylor Provost loves puzzles of any kind, and that includes decoding complex ideas and concepts so she can share them with others in simpler terms. A true word nerd, you’ll often find her solving a crossword puzzle at home when she’s not road-tripping to a national park with her family.