My three year lease is finally coming to an end. Owning a MINI had its ups and downs, but it was definitely and overall positive experience. I'm thinking about writing a long-term review of the car, so I'll save my final feelings about the car for later.

My question to you all...
What are the types of things I have to be worrying about before I return the car? It has its fair share of paint chips and door dings, but does anyone know MINI's policy on "normal wear and tear"? I really can't afford to have any unexpected fees when my lease is up, so I want to know well in advance if I need to make a trip to the body shop. Any and all words of wisdom will be appreciated!

 

Found the MINI lease return checklist on their website, but I'll still appreciate any advice or personal experiences. this is my first leased car!

 

follow the instructions on the checklist and if you have any questions go to the dealership and ask for answers to these problems. Appearance matters are always subject to dispute so I would definitely want to know where you stand before turn in time.

 

Are you planning on getting another car at the same time you turn this one in? If so, many "wear and tear" items will be overlooked/forgiven.

 

plus 1

Sounds like you should get a 2010 MINI !

 

Oh, and I can't speak for BMW/MINI, but in my previous leases (two from Nissan, one from Honda), there was a "pre-inspection" about a month before the actual lease end. Some guy came out, inspected the car and gave me a checklist. That way there were no surprises.

 

First off you stated, that owning a MINI has its ups and downs. You didnt own the MINI, you leased it. Sorry but I hate it when people say they own a car they are leasing.

Back on topric.....take it to an independent shop and have them do a pre purchase inspection on it or even better yet, give the mechanic the MINI checklist and have him/her look at everything that is on the checklist. Get anything fixed by the independent shop. The dealership will charge you way more.

 

They're usually a bit more lax on those checklists if you're going to lease another car from them I've heard.