Lease ends this year... what do I have to do to turn a car in? Do they expect new brakes, tires, etc...???

 

It depends on the leasing company but most all require an inspection. Some inspections are very detailed and others are more cursory. Generally, paint needs to be in decent condition without door dings or major chips (minor clear coat scratches are fine). Tires need to have a certain amount of tread, say 5/32". Normal wear items like brakes are not usually inspected so unless the there is a warning light on, you should be fine. Wheels are inspected for curb damage. Manuals must be present.

If you have a detailed inspection, try to correct the issues yourself. Have your local wheel guy repair the wheels for $100 rather than paying the leasing company $400 each. If the tires are gone, install the least expensive tires you can find - the leasing company cares about tread, not tire brand. Fix minor chips with Langka or Dr. Color Chip. Basically, clean the car up yourself and you can save tons of money. The leasing company will grossly overcharge for repairs. One ridiculous example: I was told that an owner's manual costs $400 - I have never lost one, I just ask lots of questions. Have the vehicle inspected with a little dust on the paint as that might obscure minor flaws. Keep in mind the car is either going to be Porsche CPO'd and the dealer will fix everything or it is going to auction to be resold by an independent dealer.

If you have a cursory inspection don't worry about a thing. I hope you have the latter.

Finally, if you are selling to a private party, I think you should disclose everything. The leasing company doesn't care about how much you loved the car or that you washed only with microfiber towels. They just go off the checklist.

 

Thanks!