ecobeest

Be careful with the 'work with your dealer' advice because it's not your dealer that will make decisions on the condition of the truck at lease end. They have no say in the matter.

Having leased a number of vehicles, I have modified the vehicles somewhat, but nothing I could not easily remove, nor anything major. it is what it is when it comes to leasing.

Keep in mind that should you decide to purchase the vehicle at lease end, you won't be required to go through lease end inspection. I'll admit though that going this route is not often taken as the buyout is often not a good deal. On my 08 it was and in fact I bought it out and flipped the positive equity into my next truck (a purchase).

Bottom line, READ your lease paperwork, and if in doubt talk to Ford. Make NO assumptions because you signed the lease, you need to ensure you abide by the terms.

tom231

It does not have to be in perfect condition when returned. You are allowed some scratches, dents and wear on the seats. They don't expect a three year old vehicle to be perfect. Your friend got screwed! Unless the scratches were really bad.

TonyG_FX4

The rules with all leases is anything you do must be as good or an upgrade to the automobile to be acceptable. Level kits are not considered upgrades, because its a lateral choice. I changed out my rims and tires on my lease and I put HID's in my fog lamps. I also will be buying a aftermarket grille guard sometime soon and putting in a different CAI.
I change out parts and sound systems on my leases all the time, I just make sure whatever I put in adds value to the truck.

Ford is the leasing company they will give you a brochure as to what dents and scratches are acceptable upon the return of the truck, usually it has to do with length and depth of scratch and dent.

gregsf150stx

If you chose not to purchase the truck at the end of the lease for its "lease end buyout", the dealer can buy it, and resell it. Otherwise it goes to an auction.

Rugger

It may be cheaper to lease but IMHO never a good idea. You walk away with nothing. Drive too many miles, it costs you. Modify the vehicle, it cost you. Have an accident, it cost you in deductible and in diminished value. These trucks maintain their value so well that they will be worth more than you owe in less than three years. They change body styles so infrequently that they look new for years at a time. ( I still think the 07 & 08 body style is sharp) take care of it, treat it like the truck you love and then have to pay for it for 5 more years at the end of the lease? That would suck.
Can you tell I'm not a fan of a lease? Pay a little more each month and end up with a vehicle that will still give you back money for years to come. In Texas, a new truck has its third owner waiting for it when it leaves the dealership.

volvodoc

Like kgpat said they will inspect it with the biggest magnifing glass you ever saw.then the hit list begins.Always remember they are in the busines to make money.In over 40 years in the automtive busines I have never heard of anyone getting out with not paying something.

TonyG_FX4

I have had three leases before my f150 and never paid, and neither has anyone in my family.The thing the lease companies are doing lately is they just charge you a return fee that you agree to before you sign the lease. However that's separate of the extra charges for damage and over mileage.

gregsf150stx

I leased a Toyota Camry, Toyota Tacoma, and a Chevy Cobalt in the past......walked away clean, never owed anything afterwards with normal wear and tear and a few small dents and dings.......

I actually OWN now though......

montanaman

If you're looking at payments, a lease will be less expensive in the short term.

For the long haul, a lease is not a bargain - the lease company makes a living on the difference.

I'm in the rental business - I pay $4500 for a dump trailer, and I rent it for $40per day, $120 per week, and $400 per month. So if you want to re-roof your house and keep it a couple of weeks you'll spend $240 - which is a lot less than owning one. I've had guys in the roofing business, needing an extra trailer, and they'll rent it for a month or more.

I make about $3000 a year on a trailer, and I still own them, and I charge out the customers for flat tires or any damage.

Renting is a bargain, just like a lease is a bargain - for the short term.

tom231

Iv'e leased two vehicles in the past. I walked away from both without paying a dime extra.