Returning a leased car can be a nerve-wracking experience, especially when you’re unsure of the condition of the vehicle. In this blog post, I’ll take you through my recent experience returning my 2021 Tesla Model 3 and the self-inspection process I went through to ensure a smooth return.
As my three-year lease was coming to an end, I decided to upgrade to the new 2024 Highland version of the Model 3. Before returning my current vehicle, I had to go through a thorough inspection to assess any damage or excess wear and tear. I opted to do the self-inspection, which involved taking photos of specific areas of the car as outlined by Tesla.
The inspection required me to take several photos, including four different angles of the exterior to check for any major damage or dents. I also had to capture the interior, including the seats, charging cables, and key cards. During this process, I discovered a scratch on the exterior that could easily be buffed out, a small chip in the windshield, and some curb rash on the wheels.
One area of concern was the tread of the tires, as excessive wear could result in additional charges. Luckily, with only 15,000 miles on my lease due to reduced driving during the pandemic, my tires were in good condition. The inspection guidelines indicated that if the tread went through Washington’s head on a quarter, the tires were in good shape.
After submitting my photos and inspection report to Tesla, I was pleasantly surprised to learn that my repair cost was only $170. The only items that required attention were the wheels with curb rash, which I had expected. The good news was that Tesla offered me a $500 excess wear and tear credit when ordering my new vehicle, covering the cost of the repairs.
With a final repair bill of $170 and the $500 credit, my total cost to return the leased vehicle was zero. I was thrilled with the outcome and eagerly awaited the arrival of my new Highland version Model 3. The process was seamless, and I was grateful for Tesla‘s assistance in making the transition smooth and cost-effective.
If you’re considering returning a leased vehicle, I highly recommend opting for the self-inspection process to avoid any surprises at the end of your lease. It’s a simple and effective way to assess the condition of your vehicle and address any issues before returning it. And if you’re in the market for a new Tesla, don’t forget to use a referral code to save on your purchase or lease.
Overall, my experience returning my 2021 Model 3 was a positive one, thanks to the self-inspection process and Tesla‘s excellent customer service. I can’t wait to get behind the wheel of my new Highland version and share my thoughts in an upcoming review. Stay tuned for more Tesla updates and tips on car leasing and ownership. Thank you for reading, and feel free to leave any questions or comments below.
