Chevy Silverado Lease Return Guide

Before returning your Silverado, it's a good idea to take a thorough walk-around to identify any wear and tear that may have accumulated during your lease. Check the exterior carefully for scratches, dents, paint chips, or stone chips on the hood and bumpers. Don't forget to inspect the wheels and tires for uneven wear, low tread, or damage, since tires that don't meet lease standards may need replacement. Inside the cabin, examine the seats for tears or stains, the carpets and floor mats for dirt or damage, and the dashboard for scratches or cracks. Even small issues can add up in fees, so catching and addressing them early—sometimes with simple DIY fixes or detailing—can save you money and stress when returning your Silverado.

Understanding what qualifies as "normal wear and tear" on a leased Silverado is key to avoiding unexpected charges. Most leases allow for minor scratches, small dings, and light tire wear, but anything more significant, such as deep dents, broken trim, cracked glass, or severe interior damage, could be flagged during the inspection. At Portsmouth Chevrolet, our team can help you interpret your lease agreement's guidelines and even suggest cost-effective ways to address any issues. Knowing the difference between normal wear and problem areas ensures you're fully prepared for returns and can address or repair minor issues ahead of time to avoid extra costs.

Returning your Silverado smoothly requires having all the right paperwork and accessories on hand. Make sure you bring your lease agreement, registration, insurance documents, and any maintenance records from routine services or repairs done during your lease. Don't forget the keys, key fobs, and any additional items that came with the vehicle, like floor mats, spare tire kits, or cargo covers. Bringing everything together makes the inspection and return process faster and prevents delays. Being organized also shows your lease administrator that you've taken good care of your Silverado, which can sometimes help reduce additional charges for minor wear.

A pre-return inspection can be a real lifesaver in preparing for your lease-end. At Portsmouth Chevrolet, we offer pre-return inspections to identify potential issues before the official return. This allows you to address minor problems, such as repairing small dents, touching up paint, or cleaning the interior, so you're not surprised by fees later. During this inspection, our team can also review your lease agreement with you, answer any questions, and guide your next steps—whether that's leasing a new Silverado, purchasing your current one, or exploring other vehicle options. Planning ahead with a pre-return inspection gives peace of mind and can make the entire process faster, smoother, and more predictable.

When it comes time to return your Silverado lease, being prepared makes all the difference. By inspecting your vehicle, understanding what counts as normal wear and tear, gathering your documents, and considering a pre-return inspection, you can avoid surprises and make the process smooth and stress-free. Our team at Portsmouth Chevrolet is always here to help, whether you need guidance on repairs, paperwork, or exploring your next vehicle. We'd love the opportunity to assist you every step of the way. Fill out the form below or reach out to schedule a consultation, and let us make your Silverado lease return as easy and seamless as possible.