Wear and Use

Returning Your Lease Vehicle

Approximately 150-120 days before your lease contract is scheduled to end, Ford Credit will send a Lease-End Brochure, outlining what to expect when you return your lease vehicle.

You are required to return your vehicle to your originating dealer* on or before the lease-end date. Failing to return your vehicle on time could result in additional charges as described in your Lease Agreement.

When you return your vehicle, a dealer* representative or a representative from a vehicle inspection company authorized by Ford Credit will review the condition of your vehicle. This inspection is a standard practice and recommended so that you're aware of potential wear and use on your vehicle.

*If you have moved and now live more than 75 air miles from your originating dealer, you may return your lease vehicle to a participating Ford, Lincoln or Mercury dealer. Be sure to contact them for an appointment prior to vehicle return.

Normal Wear & Use

As your Lease Agreement states, Ford Credit expects vehicles to be returned in good condition allowing for normal wear and use during the term of your agreement. Please refer to your Lease Agreement for information regarding vehicle wear and use which relates to your responsibilities at the end of your lease.

Minor everyday wear and use are expected and will not result in any additional charges. Under normal driving conditions and with routine preventative maintenance, you'll most likely not be assessed any excess wear and use charges. Proper maintenance includes:
  • Oil Changes and Filters*
  • Inspections of belts and hoses*
  • Tire rotations*
  • Routine check of tire pressure
  • Wash and wax your vehicle regularly to protect the paint and finish

*(Perform scheduled maintenance as indicated in your Owner's Manual)

Examples of normal wear and use include:
  • Minor dings and dents
  • Small scratches
  • Minor stone chips in the paint finish
  • Reduced tread on tires

Excess Wear & Use

Excess wear and use is the result of damage to a vehicle that does not fall within the normal wear and use guidelines.

Some typical examples of excess wear and use include:

  • Broken or missing parts
  • Cuts, tears, burns, or permanent stains in the fabric
  • Cracked or broken glass
  • Poor quality repairs
  • Tire/wheel damage, or less than 1/8" of tread remaining
  • Mechanical and electrical malfunctions
  • An excessive number or amount of dings, dents, scratches or stone chips

You are also responsible for replacing any items that have been lost or damaged. Such items include outside mirrors, wheel covers, and antennas. Many items that are considered excess may be covered by your insurance policy. For example, if your vehicle is in an accident, or if your windshield is cracked, you may want to file an insurance claim. If the damage is covered under your insurance policy, your expenses may be covered in full or limited to your deductible. To avoid excess wear and use charges, it is recommended that you have the necessary repairs made prior to the end of your contract term.

If excess wear and use has been identified, or if the mileage on your vehicle exceeds the mileage allowed in your agreement, you will be responsible for paying the assessed charges. These charges will be collected at vehicle turn-in, and can be deducted from your security deposit. Any charges over and above your security deposit amount will be your responsibility. Of course, if there are no excess wear and use or excess mileage charges, then your full security deposit will be refunded to you.

The Wear and Use Evaluator Card will help you assess the condition of your vehicle.

Excess Mileage

Excess mileage is defined as any mileage greater than the amount stated in your Lease Agreement. Please refer to your Lease Agreement for contractual miles allowed.

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