Brand Guide - Updated January 2026
Honda Lease Return Guide
Returning a leased Honda? Honda 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
Honda 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 $350, often waived for loyalty. Our users successfully dispute an average of $325 in charges.
Returning a Honda lease?
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Common Honda Lease-End Charges
These are typical charges Honda 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 | $100-300 |
Paint scratches Surface scratches often waived | $100-300 |
Wheel damage Minor curb rash may be normal | $125-225/wheel |
Interior wear Expected wear accepted | $75-200 |
Windshield damage Small chips often pass | $50-150 |
Fixed Fees (Generally Non-Negotiable)
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
Missing spare tire If equipped originally | $150-250 |
Disposition fee Waived for repeat customers | $350 |
Excess mileage Competitive rate | $0.15/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.
Honda Wear Guide Thresholds
Honda 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 or less | Normal |
| Dents | 2 inches diameter, no paint damage | Normal |
| Tire tread | 2/32" minimum | Normal |
| Interior | Normal wear, no damage | Normal |
| Glass | Chips under 1 inch | Normal |
| Wheels | Minor cosmetic marks | 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.Honda's wear guide represents their interpretation of reasonable standards.
Honda Inspection Process
Honda Financial Services inspections are typically conducted at dealerships. Pre-inspections can be scheduled through your local Honda dealer approximately 30 days before lease maturity.
Tips for Honda Lease Return
- Honda and Toyota have similarly reasonable lease-end policies
- HFS offers competitive $0.15/mile excess mileage rate
- Schedule pre-return inspection through your Honda dealer
- Consider Honda Care coverage for comprehensive protection
- Honda resale values are strong - evaluate purchase option before returning
Dispute Unfair Honda Charges
Our tool analyzes your HFS 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 Honda dispute: $550 - Potential 18x return
Honda Financial Services Contact
Phone
1-800-708-6555Website
HFS PortalMailing Address (for disputes)
Honda Financial Services, P.O. Box 650541, Dallas, TX 75265-0541
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Honda charge for excess wear at lease end?
Honda Financial Services charges are typically $100-300 per damage item - among the more reasonable in the industry. HFS follows the standard Credit Card Test: damage under 2 inches is generally considered normal wear.
What is Honda's disposition fee?
Honda charges a $350 disposition fee at lease end. This fee is often waived if you lease or purchase another Honda through HFS. Check your lease agreement for specific terms.
Is Honda strict about lease return condition?
Honda is generally considered fair in lease-end inspections. They follow industry-standard wear guidelines and have a reputation for reasonable treatment of normal wear and tear. Pre-inspection is still recommended.
Can I dispute Honda lease-end charges?
Yes. Document the vehicle condition with photos before return, reference the Credit Card Test for small damage, and contact HFS customer service. Honda typically has reasonable dispute resolution processes.
What happens if I'm over my Honda lease mileage?
Honda charges $0.15 per excess mile - one of the lower rates available. Calculate total fees and compare to purchasing the vehicle. Honda's strong resale values sometimes make purchasing and reselling a better option.
Should I buy my Honda at lease end?
Consider it. Honda vehicles typically hold value well. Compare your residual (buyout price) to current market value. If the buyout is below market value, purchasing and keeping or reselling can be financially advantageous.
Compare Other Brands
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Based on Federal Regulation M (12 CFR 1013) and Honda Financial Services wear guidelines