hi! i have a 2014 mazda 3 i need to return this month. i am thinking about getting the cx3 or cx5.
i have some minor scratches and dents. i heard that often times that a dealer will overlook some of the damage and return fee if i get a new car and lease from them.
does it matter if it is not the exact same dealership?
when is the time to actually ask about this? do i mention that i will possibly lease a new car AFTER they say what the cost is for damages and then say if they will drop the charges, or do tell them i’m thinking about a new car lease and i’m about to return my old one? i’m just confused on the timing on how to get this done.
If Mazda is like everyone else they’ll send you packet that explains what’s excessive wear and tear, I assume you can get an inspection prior to turn in. It’s not up to the dealer, it’s usually a third party inspection
Dealers will always overestimate any damage. For example, our q50 had some bumper damage. The estimate to repair/replace was around $1200. We shopped around for estimates at local body shops and got one to fix it for $400. Our end of lease inspection came out to $0 in damages.
My advice is to see what some good local body shops can do to fix your damages.
Alternatively, if it’s relatively minor, Mazda may give you an allowance for damages if you take another Mazda. Nissan for example will give you $500 in damages if you take another Nissan. You can call Mazda and ask.
Call Mazda Finance 60 days out and tell them you are nearing lease end and want an inspection. They will provide # for 3rf party inspectors. Most inspections are good for 60 days. In my case (nj) they need to be performed 45 days out.
Once you get inspected they provide an itemized list of parts and labor w/in 2-3 days. You should shop labor//parts on damage and repair enough to bring cost to under grace amount - in my case $1k before terminating lease.
You need to submit your invoices for repair to Mazda finance to be credited for repairs commissioned.
