
Understanding Lease Buyouts
At the time of lease initiation, Audi estimates the residual value of your vehicle, which sets the stage for a potential buyout at term end. Electing a buyout entails paying the residual amount plus any applicable fees to gain ownership post-lease.
Detailed Buyout Considerations:
Residual Value: It's the pre-determined buyout price at the lease's inception and a critical figure that determines your buyout costs.
Additional Costs: Often, there are fees for more-than-normal wear and tear or mileage overage that could influence your decision.
Waiving the Disposition Fee
A disposition fee may be required when returning a leased vehicle, typically to cover the costs associated with preparing the car for resale. Audi provides an incentive for brand loyalty:
Disposition Fee Waiver:
Stay with Audi: The fee is waived if you lease or purchase a new or Certified pre-owned Audi through Audi Financial Services within 120 days of turning in your current model.
Negotiating a Lease Buyout
Diving into negotiating a lease buyout takes preparation and a good understanding of your vehicle's current market value versus its residual value.
Pre-Negotiation Steps:
Current Market vs. Residual Value: Assess whether the market value is lower than the residual price.
Lower Associated Fees: Inquire if the lessor can reduce any buyout-related fees.
Audi Care and Residual Value
Opting for Audi Care can enhance more than your servicing experience; it can positively impact your vehicle's end-of-lease financials.
Audi Care Benefits:
Increased Residual Value: Typically adds 1% to the residual, thus reducing monthly payments.
Greater End Value: Results in a more valuable vehicle when you're ready to return or buy out the lease.
Impact on Credit and Mileage Considerations
Buying out your lease can have several implications, from altering your debt-to-income ratio to opening the opportunity to maintain a vehicle with a known history.
Credit and Mileage Insights:
Credit Impact: A lease buyout typically does not harm your credit.
Mileage Overages: Post-buyout, mileage restrictions lift, offering relief from potential overage charges.
Extending Your Audi Lease
For those not ready to say goodbye to their current Audi or decide on a new one, extending your lease offers a simple solution.
Extension Perks:
Timeline Flexibility: Audi Financial Services often allows a lease to be extended for an additional six to twelve months.
Seamless Continuation: Continue to enjoy your Audi without any change in terms or vehicle care requirements.
Tips for Turning In Your Leased Vehicle
If you decide returning your Audi is the right move, knowing how to handle the process can save you time and money.
Successful Return Tips:
Early Return: Consider the cost-benefit of an early turn-in vs. mileage overages.
Lease Transfer: Consider transferring your lease as an alternative to lease return penalties.