The Volkswagen lease-return process may be unfamiliar to some, but we're here to clear up some of the fog and give you crystal-clear details on what to expect. Leasing is a flexible option that many drivers prefer over ownership because of its short-term nature and easy-to-follow return process. We've outlined all those details below and included a helpful visual to assist with your decision-making process.
When you're ready to have a more in-depth look at available models for lease in Atlanta, GA, our Jim Ellis Volkswagen of Chamblee location is ready to welcome you.
The Volkswagen lease-return process is straightforward. At Jim Ellis Volkswagen of Chamblee, we strive to make returning your leased vehicle as easy as possible. The steps for returning your lease are simple: You bring the leased vehicle back at the end of your agreed-upon term, we'll inspect it for excessive damage, and you'll decide on your next driving option.
Our team is here to guide you through every step of the process. From the lease-end inspection to the signing of your next lease or loan, we're here to navigate the unknowns with you.

When you return your leased vehicle, it will need to be inspected for excessive wear and tear. We have a reasonable expectation that the vehicle may have some blemishes, but anything that seems out of place or exceeds the bounds of normal "wear and tear" will likely be subject to additional charges.
The VW lease-return inspection is typically quick, taking only a few minutes to complete. While our team completes the evaluation, you are welcome to explore the showroom for your next vehicle.

There are a few options available to you at the end of your Volkswagen lease. You could walk away without a replacement vehicle; this is a great path for drivers who might be moving out of the country or have other, more pressing obligations.
However, a more popular choice is to use one of our Volkswagen lease offers to start a new lease. These offers generally lower your monthly payments, which can be appealing for younger drivers or college students who need something reliable.
Alternatively, you could purchase a new Volkswagen SUV or sedan. This method can be done using cash outright or with an auto loan.
We've included a helpful visual below to help you determine your ideal driving method.
| Lease-End Options | What It Means | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Return Your Volkswagen | Bring your vehicle back to the dealership and walk away | Drivers who are moving away or want to lower vehicle-related costs |
| Lease a New Volkswagen | Start a new lease on a different, newer model than you'd previously been leasing | Drivers who want to try something new and experience the latest technology |
| Purchase the Volkswagen You'd Been Leasing | Keep the model you'd been leasing with no return required | Drivers who have grown attached to the model they'd been driving for a few years |
| Trade Up to a New Model | Use your current vehicle's value to lower your next payment for a new one | Drivers who want something more flexible than vehicle ownership |
You may be able to return a Volkswagen lease early in some circumstances. Our dealership prefers to address every situation with a unique approach, so you won't find a one-size-fits-all answer. However, early lease termination is not uncommon for drivers moving out of state or out of the country.
You may, alternatively, use a lease buyout option to end your lease agreement and own the vehicle. You can also consider trading in another vehicle you may own before the lease ends to lower costs and make early termination easier.
You may be able to extend your lease in some cases, though these circumstances usually happen on a month-by-month basis. These temporary extension options generally help you when your lease-return window falls on a busy season of life. Circumstances in which extensions make sense include life-changing events, such as the birth of a child, a change in occupation, or moving to a new location.
If you have more questions about how lease extensions work, our specialists in Georgia would be happy to provide more details.

We know leasing might be a new experience for some drivers, and it can be challenging to have all the right information. Stop by our dealership in Atlanta, GA, to learn all about leasing details specific to the vehicles you're most interested in. Our team would be happy to offer in-depth cost analyses and projected payment information. We can also pair you with lease incentives that lower your monthly premiums and help you get behind the wheel of a higher-tier trim for less.
Usually, a lease from any authorized Volkswagen dealer can be returned at any other authorized location. We recommend calling the location first to ensure you can return your leased vehicle.
In some cases, you may be able to extend your Volkswagen lease on a month-by-month basis. However, the specific details of this extension can vary, and it's not intended to be a long-term solution. If you need more time with the vehicle, contact our team to discuss starting a new lease or applying for an auto loan.
You can generally terminate your Volkswagen lease early, but doing so typically incurs additional charges. Our specialists can help you navigate the specifics of early release from your VW lease agreement.