Brand Guide - Updated January 2026
Mercedes-Benz Lease Return Guide
Returning a leased Mercedes-Benz? Mercedes-Benz 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
Mercedes-Benz 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 $595, often waived for loyalty. Our users successfully dispute an average of $475 in charges.
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Common Mercedes-Benz Lease-End Charges
These are typical charges Mercedes-Benz 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 panel dents Credit Card Test applies | $175-450 |
Paint scratches Surface scratches often normal wear | $200-600 |
Alloy wheel damage Curb rash visibility standard | $250-400/wheel |
Leather wear/tears Normal wear patterns accepted | $200-500 |
Headlight lens damage Hazing may be normal aging | $300-800 |
Fixed Fees (Generally Non-Negotiable)
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
Key fob replacement Both keys required | $400-600 |
Disposition fee Waived if leasing another MB | $595 |
Excess mileage Per contract terms | $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.
Mercedes-Benz Wear Guide Thresholds
Mercedes-Benz 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 | Surface scratches up to 2 inches | Normal |
| Dents | Up to 2 inches, no crease or paint damage | Normal |
| Tire tread | 3/32" minimum remaining | Normal |
| Leather seats | Normal wear patterns, no tears or burns | Normal |
| Windshield | Minor chips not obstructing vision | Normal |
| Wheels | Light curb marks not visible at arm's length | 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.Mercedes-Benz's wear guide represents their interpretation of reasonable standards.
Mercedes-Benz Inspection Process
Mercedes-Benz Financial Services uses AutoVIN or similar third-party inspectors. Pre-inspections are available through the MBFS portal or by calling customer service.
Tips for Mercedes-Benz Lease Return
- MBFS has one of the higher disposition fees at $595 - consider loyalty to waive it
- Schedule pre-inspection at least 30 days before lease maturity
- Mercedes wear standards are generally consistent with industry Credit Card Test
- Address obvious issues at independent shops before return - typically 30-50% cheaper
- Keep all service records to demonstrate proper vehicle maintenance
Dispute Unfair Mercedes-Benz Charges
Our tool analyzes your MBFS 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 Mercedes-Benz dispute: $950 - Potential 32x return
Mercedes-Benz Financial Services Contact
Phone
1-800-654-6222Website
MBFS PortalMailing Address (for disputes)
Mercedes-Benz Financial Services, P.O. Box 5308, Carol Stream, IL 60197-5308
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Mercedes-Benz lease-end disposition fee?
Mercedes-Benz Financial Services charges a $595 disposition fee at lease end - one of the higher fees in the industry. However, this fee is waived if you lease or finance another Mercedes-Benz through MBFS. The fee is disclosed in your lease agreement.
How strict is Mercedes-Benz about lease return inspections?
MBFS inspections are generally in line with industry standards. They follow similar wear guidelines to other luxury brands, using the Credit Card Test (damage under 2 inches = normal wear) as a baseline. However, inspector consistency can vary, which is why pre-inspections are valuable.
Can I dispute MBFS excess wear charges?
Yes. If you believe charges are unreasonable, you can dispute them by citing Federal Regulation M requirements for reasonable wear standards, providing photos documenting the vehicle condition, and referencing the Credit Card Test. MBFS has a formal dispute process through customer service.
Should I use Mercedes-Benz for repairs before lease return?
Not necessarily. While dealer repairs ensure OEM parts, independent shops often charge 30-50% less for equivalent work. Since pre-return repairs don't need to meet collision standards, quality independent shops can save you money. Get quotes from both before deciding.
What happens if I'm over mileage on my Mercedes lease?
MBFS typically charges $0.25 per excess mile. If you're significantly over, consider negotiating a payoff amount or purchasing the vehicle. Sometimes the purchase option price plus a quick resale nets better than paying mileage penalties.
Does Mercedes-Benz offer lease-end protection plans?
Yes, MBFS offers Excess Wear and Use Protection that can be added at lease signing. If you didn't purchase it initially, third-party lease protection plans may still be available. Check your original paperwork to see if coverage was included.
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Based on Federal Regulation M (12 CFR 1013) and Mercedes-Benz Financial Services wear guidelines