When it’s time to buy out a leased vehicle, some dealerships will tack on an inspection or certification fee, claiming it’s necessary to certify the car’s condition. However, if you’ve been driving the vehicle and maintaining it as part of the lease agreement, these charges may be unwarranted. Here, we’ll explore what these fees are, why they’re often unnecessary, and your rights under the Consumer Leasing Act.
What Are Inspection or Certification Fees?
Inspection or certification fees are added costs that dealerships claim are necessary to ensure a pre-owned vehicle’s condition before selling it. They may argue that the car requires a final check to meet dealership or manufacturer standards. However, if you’ve already been maintaining the vehicle per the lease agreement, additional certification seems redundant.
Why Are These Fees Often Unnecessary?
For leased vehicles, lessees typically handle regular maintenance and service, meaning the car is likely in good condition. Dealerships that add inspection or certification fees may simply be looking to increase the buyout cost, knowing the buyer is already committed to the vehicle.
Consumer Leasing Act Protection Against Unnecessary Fees
Under the Consumer Leasing Act (CLA), fees must be disclosed in the lease agreement. If an inspection or certification fee was not mentioned, it may be invalid. CLA protections ensure that lessees are not hit with unexpected costs when buying out their lease.
How to Dispute Inspection or Certification Fees
- Check Your Lease for Disclosure: If the fee wasn’t disclosed, the dealership may not be legally entitled to charge it.
- Demand Proof of Requirement: Ask the dealership to provide documentation proving the necessity of the inspection or certification fee.
- Seek Legal Counsel if Necessary: If the dealership insists on the fee, an attorney can help you dispute it and potentially recover damages.
Inspection and certification fees should not be a barrier to buying out your lease if you understand your rights and
How Baron, Herskowitz, and Cohen Can Help
Facing an inspection or certification fee on your lease buyout? Baron, Herskowitz, and Cohen are ready to assist. Our firm specializes in consumer rights and can help you determine whether the dealership has the right to charge this fee. We’ll work closely with you to review your lease, ensure compliance with the Consumer Leasing Act, and, if necessary, challenge unjustified charges in court. Get in touch with Baron, Herskowitz, and Cohen for expert support in protecting your rights throughout the lease buyout process.
