Brand Guide - Updated January 2026
Lexus Lease Return Guide
Returning a leased Lexus? Lexus 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
Lexus 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 $400 in charges.
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Common Lexus Lease-End Charges
These are typical charges Lexus 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 | $125-375 |
Paint damage Surface scratches may be normal | $150-400 |
Wheel refinishing Curb rash standards apply | $175-300/wheel |
Leather conditioning Normal wear accepted | $100-250 |
Headlight restoration Hazing may be age-related | $200-400 |
Fixed Fees (Generally Non-Negotiable)
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
Remote/key replacement Both keys required | $350-500 |
Disposition fee Waived for loyalty | $350 |
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.
Lexus Wear Guide Thresholds
Lexus 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 | Up to 2 inches | Normal |
| Dents | 2 inches maximum, no paint break | Normal |
| Tire tread | 3/32" minimum remaining | Normal |
| Leather | Normal wear patterns, no tears | Normal |
| Windshield | Minor chips not affecting visibility | Normal |
| Alloy wheels | Light cosmetic marks only | 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.Lexus's wear guide represents their interpretation of reasonable standards.
Lexus Inspection Process
Lexus Financial Services uses the same inspection network as Toyota. Pre-inspections can be scheduled through your Lexus dealer 30+ days before lease maturity.
Tips for Lexus Lease Return
- Lexus is owned by Toyota - similar corporate culture regarding lease returns
- LFS inspection standards align with Toyota Financial Services
- Pre-inspection available through Lexus dealerships
- Consider Lexus Excess Wear Protection if purchased at lease start
- Lexus loyalty program often includes disposition fee waiver
Dispute Unfair Lexus Charges
Our tool analyzes your LFS 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 Lexus dispute: $725 - Potential 25x return
Lexus Financial Services Contact
Phone
1-800-255-3987Website
LFS PortalMailing Address (for disputes)
Lexus Financial Services, P.O. Box 105386, Atlanta, GA 30348-5386
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Lexus lease return standards the same as Toyota?
Lexus Financial Services is part of Toyota and generally follows similar lease-end standards. However, as a luxury brand, Lexus vehicles may have higher-end finishes that are more expensive to repair if damaged beyond normal wear.
What is the Lexus disposition fee?
Lexus charges a $350 disposition fee at lease end. This fee is typically waived if you lease or purchase another Lexus through LFS. The Lexus loyalty program often provides additional benefits.
How much does Lexus charge for excess mileage?
Lexus typically charges $0.25 per excess mile - standard for luxury brands. If you're significantly over, evaluate whether paying mileage charges or purchasing the vehicle makes more financial sense.
Can I dispute Lexus wear charges?
Yes. Document vehicle condition with photos, reference the Credit Card Test for small damage, and contact LFS customer service. Being part of Toyota's corporate family, Lexus typically handles disputes reasonably.
Should I get a pre-inspection before returning my Lexus?
Absolutely. Schedule a pre-inspection through your Lexus dealer 30+ days before lease end. This allows time to address issues affordably before the final return inspection.
Does Lexus offer wear protection plans?
Yes, Lexus Excess Wear and Use Protection is available at lease signing. If you purchased this coverage, it can cover up to $5,000-7,500 in wear charges. Check your lease paperwork for coverage details.
Compare Other Brands
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Based on Federal Regulation M (12 CFR 1013) and Lexus Financial Services wear guidelines