Leasing a car is an exciting way to get the style and performance you’re looking for, then give yourself the freedom to choose what you want to do next. Most lease terms are around 24 or 36 months long. That means you’ll get to drive the car for the next few years, then bring it back to our dealership.

Some drivers choose to buy the car and switch over to financing, while others simply return it or sign another lease with a new model. Since a couple of those options include returning the car, Toms River Volkswagen wanted to show drivers in Toms River, Brick, and Freehold, NJ, what to expect and what to do before your lease is up. That’s why we put together this handy lease turn-in checklist.

How to Return Your Car at the End of Your Lease

Since the car could end up on the lot again after your lease, it’s important to keep everything in good condition. To make sure the car is up to par and that you’re organized, follow these simple steps before you bring the car back:

• Know the Terms of Your Lease – Returning your car the right way starts with being familiar with your lease agreement. It’s good to know what to expect and if you might be charged any fees ahead of time.
• Check the Mileage – One of the most common clauses in a lease agreement is a limit on how many miles you can put on your car. If you go over that limit, you may be charged for it.
• Schedule Maintenance – When you return the car, our service technicians will inspect it thoroughly. Get any recommended maintenance or wear and tear taken care of before you return it.
• Have the Car Cleaned or Detailed – Make sure the car looks good as new when you return it. That includes washing and waxing it and tidying up the interior. If you want to go the extra mile, you could schedule an appointment to have it detailed, too.
• Bring Your Paperwork – Make sure you bring documents like a copy of your lease, your registration, and your insurance information.
• Remember What Came with the Car – Along the same lines, remember to return anything that was in the car when you first got it. That includes the owner’s manual and any spare keys.
• Transfer Your License Plate – If you’re getting a new car, remember to transfer the license plate to the new vehicle.

Learn More About Leasing

If you need maintenance or have any questions about our lease turn-in checklist, visit Toms River VW. We’re excited to help drivers in Toms River, Brick, and Freehold, NJ, navigate the leasing process and get the kind of rates that work for you.

We even offer a lineup of VW lease deals online. Make sure you browse through them before you sign up for your next lease. Once you find one that you’re interested in, contact us to go over your options or schedule a test drive.