Hi. I leased my first car ever last year— GLC 350e on a 13 month lease that ends August 26, 2026. I have a couple of questions and please bear with me as this is my first lease ever. 1. When should I start shopping for a new lease? 2. Should I try to turn the car in a month early rather than try to extend by one month the registration and insurance that both end in July? 3. I had an accident (not my fault and repair done by MB)—will this have any affect on me when I turn in the car?
You must be in California?
How soon you shop depends on your budget and pickiness. If you just want a good deal you can probably find something quickly but if you want a particular type of car I’d probably test drive vehicles starting a month ahead of time. If you are leasing it’ll be hard to know the deal you will sign until that month’s rates etc come out.
Read the contract but I think you can turn it in early as long as you pay for that 13th month and the disposition fee. I would turn it in early in your situation unless you get a pro-rated refund.
Repaired damage won’t affect you at turn in which is one of the best parts of leasing. Carfax doesn’t matter to you. They charge for any existing damage like dents, curbed wheels etc.
That’s what I thought too but it’s tagged NJ, so wasn’t sure what the issue was….
Thank you, I’m actually in NJ. Appreciate the advice
I’m in NJ. My main issue is whether to turn in early or try to extend insurance and registration for the 13th month. It does look like turning in early would be the easier thing to do.
Oh haha didn’t even see the tag. I just know people make a big deal of 13 month leases in CA.