Auto Lease FAQs - Lease End

Question 1

What is a lease buyout?

Accepted Answer

A lease buyout is when you purchase the car you’ve been driving during your lease. Instead of returning it to the dealership for a new one, you keep the car you already know.

Question 2

Should I buy out my leased car?

Accepted Answer

Totally your call.

(But our Complete Lease Buyout Decision Guide can help!) For your reference, most of our drivers buy out their lease for one or more of the following reasons: They love the car and don’t want to give it back. The buyout price is cheaper than buying something new right now. They want to avoid mileage penalties or wear-and-tear fees at lease return. They know the car’s history (unlike a mystery used car). They have equity potential in their vehicle (since the market value is higher than the predetermined residual value).

Question 3

How does Lease End help with a lease buyout?

Accepted Answer

Short answer: We take the stress out of it. Long answer: Here’s everything we handle for you— We confirm your exact buyout price (the residual value + taxes + fees).  We shop multiple lenders at once to help you find the best loan offers (fast). We take care of the paperwork headache so you can simply eSign and move on with your life.  We handle the DMV, title, and registration steps for you in most states.  See our step-by-step breakdown of the Lease End Process for all the nitty gritty details.

Question 4

How long does the process take?

Accepted Answer

Most deals start moving in minutes—seriously. The full process usually takes a couple of weeks depending on the lender, ACH transfer timelines, and state-specific DMV processes. But your part? Around 12 minutes of total effort. If this sounds too good to be true, check out our reviews to hear straight from our drivers just how easy we make lease buyouts.

Question 5

Where can I get financing for my buyout?

Accepted Answer

Lease End works with trusted national lenders like Ally, Capital One, and Chase Bank to help you find competitive buyout loan options.  Of course, your APR will depend on personal factors, especially your credit score, so the higher your credit score, the better.  Check our guide to Lease Buyout Loan Rates for the latest APR averages by credit profile here at Lease End in 2026.

Question 6

How is my buyout price calculated?

Accepted Answer

Your buyout price includes the following: Your vehicle's residual value, pre-determined at the start of your lease term  Any remaining payments to be rolled into your new auto loan (if you’re buying out early) Taxes, registration, and documentation fees (applicable only in select states)  Want a deeper explanation of each cost factor? Our Guide to Lease Buyout Costs breaks it all down.

Question 7

Can I buy out my lease early?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You don’t have to wait until your lease’s final month! If the car is in your possession, we can usually help—whether you’re 6 months early or 6 days early. Read More: Can I Buy My Leased Car Early? (Spoiler Alert: Yes, and You Probably Should)

Question 8

What paperwork do I need for a buyout?

Accepted Answer

Every buyout comes with a hefty stack of documents— purchase agreements,  disclosures,  odometer statements,  DMV forms,  lender paperwork, and more.  The good news? We handle all of it for you.

Question 9

Do I need extended coverage with my loan?

Accepted Answer

It’s up to you, but we highly recommend that drivers opt in since most leases end right when factory warranties expire. We’ll show you your Ally VSC and GAP insurance options and costs up front so you know all your benefits, with zero surprises.  Learn more about VSC and GAP in our Lease Buyout Extended Coverage guide.

Question 10

Do you handle the DMV for me?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We take care of title transfers, registration, and all the DMV legwork in most U.S. states—so you don’t spend your afternoon (or multiple afternoons) in a plastic chair at the counter.

Question 11

Will my credit be pulled?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Any lender offering you a real auto loan, including a lease buyout loan, needs to run a hard credit pull. We explain exactly why this is required in our article on why lenders run a hard credit pull. For drivers just wanting a ballpark estimate to start: check out our AI-powered lease buyout calculator, which does a soft credit pull only.

Question 12

Who will I be working with?

Accepted Answer

Real people. Real, U.S.-based lease buyout experts.  Meet our team members and hear about some of our driver’s experiences with these guides: Behind the Wheel with Our Financial Specialists.

Question 13

Is my information secure?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. Your personal data is encrypted and protected by strict security technology and protocols. Learn More: Data Security at Lease End

Question 14

What if I’m over mileage or have excess wear?

Accepted Answer

A buyout is often the best way to avoid those penalties that you would otherwise pay for when turning in your leased car. Your lender doesn’t care about scratches or mileage—they only care about helping you finance your vehicle.

Question 15

What if my lease is through a manufacturer that limits third-party buyouts?

Accepted Answer

Many manufacturers don't allow third-party buyouts, but good news: Lease End doesn’t facilitate third-party buyouts either.  We help you (the primary party) buy out your lease, which nearly all manufacturers allow. For brand-by-brand lease buyout details, including Lease End's manufacturer-specific datasets, see our complete index: Lease Buyouts by Manufacturer (covering Honda, Toyota, BMW, Hyundai, and all other major auto manufacturers).

Question 16

What if my car was in an accident?

Accepted Answer

Many drivers buy out their lease after an accident because they  Know and trust the repair history and/or  Want to avoid returning a car that they'll be charged extra for wear and tear.  We can help you evaluate your best move if you’re considering this route.

Question 17

I need more info.

Accepted Answer

Perfect!  Read through our step-by-step process to better understand how it works or try our Lease Buyout Calculator to get an instant buyout estimate

Question 18

My case is unique. Can you help?

Accepted Answer

Definitely. Every lease has quirks, and we’ve helped more than 45,000+ drivers navigate theirs. If something feels unusual, reach out. Chances are, we’ve seen it before.

Got car lease buyout questions? We’ve got the answers.

Lease Buyout Basics

Financing Your Lease Buyout

Paperwork, DMV, & Coverage

Credit, Security, & Trust

Special Situations

Still Have Questions?