Brand Guide - Updated January 2026
Tesla Lease Return Guide
Returning a leased Tesla? Tesla Finance 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
Tesla 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, not typically waived. Our users successfully dispute an average of $350 in charges.
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Common Tesla Lease-End Charges
These are typical charges Tesla 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/dings Credit Card Test applies | $150-400 |
Paint damage Tesla paint is notoriously thin | $200-600 |
Wheel damage Aero covers scratches often minor | $200-350/wheel |
Interior wear Vegan leather standards | $100-300 |
Fixed Fees (Generally Non-Negotiable)
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
Screen damage Touchscreen is primary control | $1,000-2,000 |
Mobile connector Must be returned with vehicle | $200-300 |
Disposition fee Not waived for new Tesla | $395 |
Excess mileage Standard rate | $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.
Tesla Wear Guide Thresholds
Tesla Finance 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Paint scratches | 2 inches maximum | Normal |
| Dents | 2 inches, no paint break | Normal |
| Tire tread | 3/32" minimum | Normal |
| Interior | Normal wear, no tears | Normal |
| Glass roof | Minor chips not affecting integrity | Normal |
| Wheels | Light cosmetic damage | 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.Tesla's wear guide represents their interpretation of reasonable standards.
Tesla Inspection Process
Tesla's lease-end process is unique. Inspections may be conducted at delivery, by third parties, or via uploaded photos. The process varies by region and has evolved significantly. Contact Tesla directly for current procedures.
Tips for Tesla Lease Return
- Tesla inspection process is different - often done remotely via photos
- Tesla paint is known to be soft and chips easily - document all paint issues
- Unlike traditional brands, Tesla generally does NOT waive disposition fee for loyalty
- Ensure mobile connector and all accessories are returned
- Tesla lease-end buyout is NOT available for most leases signed after 2019
Dispute Unfair Tesla Charges
Our tool analyzes your Tesla 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 Tesla dispute: $750 - Potential 25x return
Tesla Finance Contact
Phone
1-844-837-5285Website
Tesla PortalMailing Address (for disputes)
Tesla Finance, 3500 Deer Creek Road, Palo Alto, CA 94304
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy my Tesla at the end of the lease?
Unlike most manufacturers, Tesla generally does NOT allow lease-end purchases for leases signed after April 2019. This policy affects Model 3 and Model Y leases particularly. Check your specific lease agreement for buyout terms.
Does Tesla waive the disposition fee for repeat customers?
No. Unlike traditional automakers, Tesla typically does NOT waive the $395 disposition fee even if you lease another Tesla. This is a notable difference from competitors.
How does Tesla's lease-end inspection work?
Tesla's process varies by location and has changed over time. It may involve a third-party inspection, Tesla service center inspection, or photo-based assessment. Contact Tesla Finance directly to confirm current procedures for your area.
Is Tesla paint damage my responsibility?
Tesla paint is known to be thinner and more susceptible to chips than traditional manufacturers. While this is a known issue, Tesla still charges for paint damage beyond normal wear. Document paint condition at lease start and throughout.
What accessories must I return with a Tesla lease?
You must return the mobile connector (charging cable), any included charging adapters, and all original accessories. Missing items result in charges, typically $200-400 depending on the component.
Can I dispute Tesla lease-end charges?
Yes, though Tesla's customer service experience varies. Document everything with photos and measurements, reference industry-standard wear guidelines, and escalate through Tesla's formal dispute process. CFPB complaints are an option for unresolved issues.
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Based on Federal Regulation M (12 CFR 1013) and Tesla Finance wear guidelines