Honda Lease Return Process
Returning your leased Honda doesn't have to be stressful. Follow our step-by-step guide to prepare your vehicle, avoid unexpected charges, and make turn-in day smooth and simple.
Schedule a pre-return inspection 2-3 months before your lease ends. This gives you time to address any wear issues on your terms — often much cheaper than paying lease-end charges. Our service team at Steve Padgett's Honda of Lake Murray offers complimentary lease inspections.
Step-by-Step Lease Return Guide
Everything you need to do before, during, and after returning your Honda.
Review Your Lease Agreement (3+ Months Out)
Find your original lease paperwork and check: your lease-end date, mileage allowance, disposition fee amount, and any special terms. Know your numbers before you start the process.
Check Your Mileage (2-3 Months Out)
Compare your current odometer reading to your total mileage allowance. If you're over, calculate potential charges ($0.15-$0.20 per mile). If significantly over, consider buying the vehicle to avoid mileage fees.
Schedule Pre-Return Inspection (2-3 Months Out)
Bring your Honda to our service department for a complimentary pre-return inspection. We'll identify any items that may result in excess wear charges — dents, scratches, tire wear, interior condition — so you can address them before turn-in.
Address Any Issues (1-2 Months Out)
Based on your inspection, decide what to fix. Often, addressing issues yourself is cheaper than lease-end charges. Replace worn tires, touch up minor scratches, repair small dents, and deep clean the interior.
Gather All Equipment (1-2 Weeks Out)
Collect everything that came with the vehicle: all key fobs, owner's manual, cargo cover, floor mats, charging cables (if applicable), and any removable accessories. Missing items result in charges.
Clean Your Vehicle (1 Week Out)
Give your Honda a thorough cleaning — exterior wash and interior detail. Remove all personal belongings, check every compartment, and don't forget the trunk. A clean car makes a better impression during inspection.
Schedule Your Return Appointment
Contact Steve Padgett's Honda of Lake Murray to schedule your official turn-in. We'll set a time that works for you and ensure the process is quick and efficient.
Turn-In Day
Bring your vehicle, all keys, and equipment. We'll complete the final inspection, process your return, and provide documentation. If you're leasing a new Honda, you can drive home in your new vehicle the same day.
What to Bring on Turn-In Day
Your complete checklist for a smooth return.
- All key fobs and keys (including valet key)
- Owner's manual and documentation
- Current registration
- License plates (in some cases)
- Any lease agreement paperwork
- Cargo cover / tonneau cover
- Floor mats (original set)
- Charging cable (if EV or PHEV)
- Spare tire and jack (if equipped)
- Headphones or accessories (if included)
What Gets Inspected at Return
Know what the inspector looks for — and prepare accordingly.
Exterior
- Dents and dings
- Scratches and paint damage
- Windshield chips/cracks
- Headlight/taillight condition
- Wheel and rim damage
- Bumper condition
Interior
- Seat condition (tears, stains)
- Carpet and floor mat wear
- Dashboard and trim condition
- Headliner damage
- Odors (smoke, pet, mold)
- All controls functioning
Mechanical
- Tire tread depth (min 4/32")
- Tire matching (all same brand)
- Brake condition
- All lights working
- No warning lights on
- A/C and heat functioning
Normal Wear vs. Excess Wear
Understanding what's acceptable — and what isn't.
✅ Normal Wear (No Charge)
- Minor scratches and chips from normal driving
- Small door dings (smaller than a credit card)
- Light wear on seats and carpet
- Minor windshield chips (under 1 inch)
- Tires with 4/32" or more tread remaining
- Age-appropriate fading
⚠️ Excess Wear (Charges Apply)
- Dents requiring body work
- Deep scratches through paint
- Cracked or severely chipped windshield
- Torn, burned, or heavily stained upholstery
- Bald or mismatched tires
- Persistent odors (smoke, pet)
- Missing or broken parts
💡 Money-Saving Tips
- Get multiple repair quotes — fixing issues yourself is often 40-60% cheaper than lease-end charges
- Use paintless dent repair (PDR) — much cheaper than traditional body work for small dents
- Replace tires proactively — a new set from a tire shop often costs less than lease-end tire charges
- Professional detail — $150-250 for deep cleaning can eliminate interior wear charges
- Touch-up paint — small chips can be fixed with Honda touch-up paint for under $30
Potential Lease-End Fees
Know what to expect — and how to minimize costs.
| Fee Type | Typical Amount | How to Avoid/Reduce |
|---|---|---|
| Disposition Fee | $350-$400 | Often waived if you lease/buy another Honda from us |
| Excess Mileage | $0.15-$0.20/mile | Consider buying vehicle if significantly over |
| Excess Wear | Varies by damage | Fix issues yourself before return; get pre-inspection |
| Missing Equipment | $50-$500+ per item | Gather all keys, manuals, and accessories before return |
| Tire Replacement | $150-$300/tire | Replace worn tires at a tire shop for less |
Where to Return Your Honda Lease
Convenient options for Columbia, Lexington & Irmo residents.
Return to Steve Padgett's Honda of Lake Murray
You can return your leased Honda to any authorized Honda dealer — including us, even if you originally leased from a different dealership. We make the process easy for drivers throughout the Midlands.
- Location: 750 Western Ln, Irmo, SC 29063
- Easy access from Columbia, Lexington, Chapin, and Newberry
- Complimentary pre-return inspections available
- Same-day lease-to-lease — drive home in a new Honda
- Disposition fee often waived when you lease or buy from us
Schedule your return: Call (803) 392-0488 or stop by during business hours.
Not Ready to Just Return?
You have options beyond turning in your keys.
🔄 Lease a New Honda
Upgrade to the latest model with new features and technology. Disposition fee is typically waived, and you may qualify for Honda Loyalty incentives.
Browse New Hondas💰 Buy Your Leased Honda
Love your current vehicle? Purchase it at the residual value. No mileage charges, no wear fees, no disposition fee. You know this car's history.
Get Buyout QuoteLease Return Questions
Common questions from Midlands Honda lessees.
Can I return my Honda to a different dealer than where I leased?
Yes. You can return your leased Honda to any authorized Honda dealership, including Steve Padgett's Honda of Lake Murray. We welcome returns from customers who leased elsewhere.
What if I can't find my second key fob?
Missing key fobs typically result in a charge of $200-$400 depending on the model. Check everywhere before return — it's worth the search. If you can't find it, consider ordering a replacement beforehand (often cheaper than the lease-end charge).
Do I need to get my Honda serviced before returning?
You're not required to perform maintenance right before return, but the vehicle should be in good working order. If you're due for an oil change or have a check engine light on, address it before turn-in.
What happens to my license plates?
In South Carolina, plates typically stay with the owner, not the vehicle. Remove your plates before turning in the vehicle. If you're leasing a new Honda, you can often transfer your plates.
How long does the return process take?
The actual turn-in process typically takes 30-60 minutes. We'll inspect the vehicle, process paperwork, and you'll be on your way. If you're leasing a new Honda the same day, plan for additional time for that transaction.
When will I know if I owe any fees?
Minor fees may be assessed at turn-in. For excess mileage or wear charges, Honda Financial Services typically sends a final bill within 4-6 weeks after return. A pre-return inspection helps you anticipate any charges.
Ready to Return Your Honda?
Schedule a pre-return inspection or book your turn-in appointment today.
Your Lake Murray Honda Dealer
Steve Padgett's Honda of Lake Murray — making lease returns simple for Columbia, Lexington & Irmo drivers.
750 Western Ln, Irmo, SC 29063 · (803) 392-0488 · View Hours