What to Do 90 Days Before Your Lease Ends

Ever notice how the end of a car lease sneaks up right when life’s already busy? One day, you’re driving like usual, and the next, you’re staring at a calendar realizing your lease ends in three months. 

Those 90 days are a fine line between an easy transition and a costly surprise.

This is the time to get clear on what comes next, whether you’re considering buying out your current lease or looking into a BMW, Toyota, Honda, or Kia lease buyout. 

Today, we’ll go over the exact steps and what to do in that 90-day window.

Review Your Lease Terms and Mileage

Most people sign a lease and never think about it again until the very end. That’s where trouble starts. 

Now’s the time to pull out that agreement and actually read what you agreed to. You’ll find key details on mileage limits, end-of-lease fees, and what counts as “normal wear and tear.” Those few pages can tell you exactly what could cost you money later.

Federal laws and regulations governing motor vehicle leases, like the Consumer Leasing Act under Regulation M, require lessors to disclose terms and costs at the start of the lease and during it. So, everything you need to know is already there; it just deserves another look.

If you’re close to your mileage limit or notice more scratches than you remembered, make a note. 

Simple things now can save you a long conversation (and possibly a bill) when you return the car.

Inspect and Handle Needed Repairs

A car that’s been through a few years of daily drives will always show signs of life, like a few scratches, worn tires, maybe a chip in the windshield. 

You need to deal with those small issues before your lease inspection. Dealers often charge more for repairs than a local shop, so taking care of them early can save you real money.

Book a quick checkup with your trusted mechanic. Ask them to go over the basics: brakes, tires, fluids, and lights. A little car maintenance goes a long way — it can prevent extra fees later.

Don’t forget to keep the receipts for any work done after your visit. 

Compare Your Options for the Next Step

With about two months left, it’s time to decide what comes after your lease ends. You’ve got three choices, so think about them upfront to avoid rushing later:

• Return the car and start a new lease

If you like the leasing model — predictable payments and the thrill of driving something new — returning the car and leasing again keeps things simple. Just make sure you’ve handled any repairs and stayed within your mileage limit, so you’re not hit with surprise fees.

• Extend your current lease for a few more months if you need more time

Sometimes, timing doesn’t line up perfectly. Maybe you’re waiting for a new model release or still comparing options. Most leasing companies allow short-term extensions, which can buy you some breathing room without starting a new contract.

• Buy your leased car if you’re happy with how it drives and what it’s worth

If your car’s been reliable and the buyout price looks good, purchasing it might be your best move. You already know its condition and history, which beats gambling on a used vehicle you don’t know. Plus, you skip the return process altogether.

1. Military and Special Circumstances

If you’re serving in the military or have been recently deployed, you may qualify for special lease-ending protections. 

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) explains that if you are in the military, you have additional protections and steps for ending an auto lease early without penalty. It’s worth checking those details before you make any final decisions.

Even if you’re not in the military, certain states have consumer protection laws that might apply. A quick call to your leasing company or a look at your state’s motor vehicle department website can help with your options.

Check the Market and Used Car Values

Market prices change fast, but you should know where your car stands at the moment. Some lease drivers discover their vehicle is worth more than expected, which is a sign that it might be smart to buy it.

The easiest way to do it is to look up what similar models are selling for in your area. Sites that list trade-in and resale values can give you a quick reality check on your car’s worth. Then, bring that information to your dealer when discussing your options. 

Having a sense of the current value of a used car is research that can pay off in confidence (and cash) when you decide whether to return or keep it.

Plan Early, Finish Strong

When your lease is 90 days from the finish line, time is on your side, but only if you use it well. These last few months should be a chance to take control, not scramble. 

Keep in mind that dealers love a rushed customer, so you don’t want to be one. Read the fine print, check your car, and know your numbers before you sign or return anything. 

Confidence at the end of a lease doesn’t come from luck, but from preparation.