Can You Modify a Leased Car?
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Asking, “Can you modify a leased car?” is a question with multiple answers. In other words, it all depends on what changes you’re making and what is allowed by the leasing company.
It’s an oversimplification, but a car lease is nothing more than a vehicle rental. That is to say: you don’t own the car you’re leasing; the leasing company (usually the automaker) does. Think of it another way; you’re limited to what changes you can make to a rented apartment versus a home you own. It’s not much different with a leased car.
So, in general, you can make temporary changes to a leased car, like adding seat covers. But permanent changes, such as engine modifications, are prohibited. Don’t rely on what dealer staff tell you about what can and cannot be done. Instead, carefully review the lease contract for what’s allowed and the penalties for non-compliance.
Read on as we explore “good” and “bad” examples of changes to a leased car.
What Modifications Are Allowed on a Leased Car?
Knowing that you have to return a leased car to its original condition, you’ll want to make modifications reversible and straightforward. Keep this in mind as you think about “Can you modify a leased car?” Sure, you can make elaborate engine upgrades, for example, but these expenses and the costs to bring the engine back to normal won’t make much sense. Let’s look at some non-permanent changes you can make to a leased car. Confirm that the lease agreement doesn’t expressly prohibit any of these modifications.
- Window Tinting: Window tinting is a popular aftermarket update that can change a car’s appearance and increase privacy. In addition, window tinting can reduce the intensity of the sun’s harmful rays and the strain on the air conditioning system. Assuming the tinting is compliant with state law, you may even be able to return the car without removing the tinting (check with the leasing company).
- Vehicle Wrap: A exterior vinyl wrap can easily change a car’s color without needing paint. Plus, a wrap can protect the vehicle from minor scratches and nicks. Best of all, it easily peels off when it’s time to return the car.
- Paint Protection: Whether you choose a protective film (which can be removed like a vinyl wrap) or a ceramic coating, paint protection (when correctly applied) helps preserve a leased car’s value. That’s a win-win for everyone involved.
- Seat Covers: Whether you choose a generic slipcover or a custom-fit version, a seat cover protects the upholstery and changes the entire look of a car’s interior. Of course, removing a temporary seat cover is an easy step, too.
- Wheels and Tires: You’ll want to skip any wheels and tires that can damage systems like the suspension. Instead, go for a compatible setup that meets your needs. Perhaps it’s more about appearance, or you need winter tires. Regardless of the reason, put the original wheels and tires back at the end of the lease.
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What Modifications Are NOT Allowed on a Leased Car?
Changes requiring mechanical modifications to a leased car should be avoided. Remember this as you ask, “Can you modify a leased car?” And chances are the lease contract explicitly forbids such activity. Even worse, significant alterations to a leased car may void the manufacturer’s warranty leaving you on the hook for any repairs or diminished vehicle value. Here are some “upgrade” examples to stay away from.
- Exhaust System: A performance exhaust system may offer an engaging sound or even a horsepower increase, but modifying a leased car in this way will only cause headaches. This is especially the case with changes to the catalytic converter or other pollution control systems.
- Engine Tuning: Tuning involves reprogramming the computer that controls engine performance. This update can improve acceleration and other factors but could be a recipe for disaster if the changes are discovered.
- Turbocharging/Supercharging: Bolting on an aftermarket turbocharger or supercharger may seem easy to crank up performance. But the change to the engine is easily spotted and not worth the hassle and expense to reverse. These power upgrades can damage an engine, transmission, or both.
- Suspension Upgrade: It may be tempting to raise the suspension on that flashy new SUV or pickup, but doing so is a clear no-no. Like with other substantial mechanical modifications, you’ll be violating the lease agreement and only have to pay later to restore the vehicle to its original condition.
- Seat Upgrade: Installing aftermarket leather upholstery or replacing the original front seats with sleek sport versions will also cause problems, no matter how good the change looks. Go for the seat covers we mentioned above.
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You’ve Modified a Leased Car: Now What?
If you didn’t ask the “Can you modify a leased car?” question before making changes, there are three different ways to deal with the situation.
- Return To Original Condition: In theory, you can reverse any modifications to a leased car. You could also be on the hook for damages to the engine, transmission, or other systems. It’s just a question of what’s involved and how much you’ll have to pay to correct things.
- Buy The Car: Most leases have a set price to purchase the car at the end of the contract. So, it may be cheaper to buy the vehicle than pay to restore the car to its original condition.
- Pay The Penalty: Just as you are responsible for excess wear-and-tear and extra miles, the leasing company will charge you for losing the car’s value due to modifications. You will be at their mercy and could face significant penalties.
8 QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN BUYING A USED CAR
So you’re in the market for a used vehicle? We’ve gone ahead and prepped some essential questions to ask when buying a used car.
Get Ready for the End-of-Lease Inspection
Most automakers require that every leased vehicle undergo an inspection shortly before the contract ends. The assessment will review several areas, including:
- Exterior and Interior Condition: The inspector will check for damages beyond normal usage, like large body dings or torn upholstery.
- Mileage: Has the vehicle been driven within the mileage allotment agreed to in the lease contract? Or will there be fees for extra miles?
- Tires and Wheels: In addition to checking for wheel damage, the inspection will assess the condition of the tires. If the tires are well-worn or unsafe, you’ll be responsible for paying for a new set (or have the opportunity to replace them yourself).
- Modifications: The vehicle review will also look for modifications, including the ones we covered earlier. Changes can reduce a car’s resale value which is not in the leasing company’s interest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will I void the warranty if I customize my leased car?
Yes. Any customization or mods that you install in a vehicle, whether leased or purchased, could potentially void the warranty. If the dealership determines that mods caused an issue that requires repair, they will likely void your warranty on the spot, leaving you to foot the bill.
Q: Can you wrap a leased car?
Yes. Car wraps are considered easily reversible modifications and won’t harm the factory paint. Unlike, let’s say, an engine modification, any mechanical issues won’t be traced back to a car wrap. Also, a car wrap won’t void your warranty. However, you must remember that car wraps can be expensive, and you’ll have to remove them by the end of the lease.
Q: Is it worth it to modify a leased car?
No. If you’re adamant about customizing a vehicle, it’s always better to buy. No matter how you look at it, you’re burning time and money by installing mods on a leased car. Even if you customize a leased car with the appropriate mods, you will have to remove them if you want to return it or trade it in.
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