Brand Guide - Updated January 2026
Audi Lease Return Guide
Returning a leased Audi? Audi Financial Services inspects vehicles for excess wear and may charge for damage beyond normal use. Learn what to expect, how charges are calculated, and how to dispute unfair fees.
Quick Answer
Audi uses the Credit Card Test for lease-end wear assessment. Damage smaller than a credit card (about 2 inches) typically qualifies as normal wear. The disposition fee is $395, often waived for loyalty. Our users successfully dispute an average of $450 in charges.
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Common Audi Lease-End Charges
These are typical charges Audi lessees see at lease return. Charges marked with a green checkmark may be contestable using the Credit Card Test or other defenses.
Potentially Contestable Charges
| Charge Item | Avg. Cost |
|---|---|
Body dents Credit Card Test applies | $175-450 |
Paint scratches Minor scratches may be normal | $200-500 |
Wheel damage Curb rash visibility standard | $225-375/wheel |
Leather wear Normal aging accepted | $150-400 |
Tech package issues Verify functionality | $300-800 |
Fixed Fees (Generally Non-Negotiable)
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
Missing Audi Connect components Original equipment required | $200-500 |
Disposition fee VW Group standard | $395 |
Excess mileage Luxury brand standard | $0.25/mile |
Dispute Tip
For any charge marked as contestable, apply the Credit Card Test: if the damage is smaller than a standard credit card (about 2 inches), it typically qualifies as normal wear under industry standards and federal Regulation M guidelines.
Audi Wear Guide Thresholds
Audi Financial Services follows industry-standard wear guidelines. Damage that falls within these thresholds is typically considered normal wear and should not be charged.
The Credit Card Test
Industry standard: If damage (scratch, dent, scuff) is smaller than a credit card (approximately 2 inches), it typically qualifies as normal wear. This is your primary defense against unfair charges.
| Damage Type | Normal Wear Threshold | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Scratches | 2 inches maximum | Normal |
| Dents | 2 inches, no paint damage | Normal |
| Tire tread | 3/32" remaining | Normal |
| Interior | Normal wear, no tears or burns | Normal |
| Glass | Chips under 1 inch | Normal |
| Wheels | Cosmetic marks not visible from 6 feet | Normal |
What Counts as Normal Wear
- - Scratches under 2 inches (credit card size)
- - Minor dents without paint damage
- - Light interior wear from normal use
- - Small windshield chips not affecting visibility
Likely Chargeable Damage
- - Deep scratches with paint damage
- - Large dents (over 2 inches)
- - Interior tears, burns, or stains
- - Cracked windshield or major glass damage
Legal Authority: Under Federal Regulation M (12 CFR 1013.4), lessors must disclose standards for determining excess wear. These standards must be reasonable and applied consistently.Audi's wear guide represents their interpretation of reasonable standards.
Audi Inspection Process
Audi Financial Services uses third-party inspectors similar to BMW and Mercedes. Pre-inspections are available through the AFS portal or your local Audi dealer.
Tips for Audi Lease Return
- AFS is part of VW Group - similar standards to Volkswagen and Porsche
- Schedule pre-inspection through your Audi dealer 30+ days before return
- Audi's complex technology means ensure all systems function at return
- Consider third-party repairs for cosmetic damage - often significantly cheaper
- Audi Care prepaid maintenance may be worth checking for unused value
Dispute Unfair Audi Charges
Our tool analyzes your AFS inspection report against industry standards and generates a formal dispute letter citing Regulation M and the Credit Card Test.
Dispute Letter
Cites Regulation M & OEM guides
Credit Card Test Analysis
Industry-standard defense
Documented Savings
Average $1,200 disputed
$29 - Avg Audi dispute: $875 - Potential 30x return
Audi Financial Services Contact
Phone
1-800-428-4034Website
AFS PortalMailing Address (for disputes)
Audi Financial Services, P.O. Box 650303, Dallas, TX 75265-0303
Frequently Asked Questions
How strict is Audi about lease-end inspections?
Audi Financial Services follows industry-standard wear guidelines similar to BMW and Mercedes. The Credit Card Test applies - damage under 2 inches typically qualifies as normal wear. Pre-inspection is strongly recommended for luxury vehicles.
What is Audi's disposition fee?
Audi charges a $395 disposition fee at lease end. This is waived if you lease or purchase another Audi through AFS. The fee is standard for the VW Group brands.
Can I dispute Audi lease-end charges?
Yes. Document everything with photos, reference the Credit Card Test, and contact AFS customer service. Be sure to also verify that any technology-related charges are legitimate - software issues may not be your responsibility.
What about Audi technology systems at lease return?
Ensure all Audi technology (MMI, Audi Connect, driver assistance features) functions properly. Malfunctions due to normal use typically aren't chargeable, but verify before return. Keep records of any service updates performed.
Should I repair damage before returning my Audi?
Get quotes from both Audi dealers and independent shops. For cosmetic repairs, independent shops are often 30-50% cheaper. For anything involving Audi-specific systems, dealer repairs may be worth the premium.
How do I schedule an Audi lease-end inspection?
Contact Audi Financial Services at 1-800-428-4034 or schedule through the AFS portal. You can also contact your local Audi dealer to arrange a pre-inspection 30+ days before lease maturity.
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Based on Federal Regulation M (12 CFR 1013) and Audi Financial Services wear guidelines