Great website. I have a lease that is ending in a couple months and just got in an accident that wasn't my fault and other drivers' insurance will pay for to get fixed. I've been trying to run through a few scenarios to see what I should do. I have received the check from the insurance company for the estimate of damage at about $1800 (seems to be all cosmetic stuff).

Should I get the car fixed before letting the Dealer give me the price for damages (the car also needs new tires and is under the mileage) and not tell them about the accident? Do they ask about any accidents when giving the price for turning it in?

Should I let the dealer look at it with the damage and see what they will charge me to turn it in and use the $1800 from the insurance to pay that amount?

The car is a Nissan Altima and I would probably buy or lease another Altima. Will they give me a "break" on the amount owed if I purchase another vehicle? I was hoping that they would charge me less than the $1800 in damages and I would have a little money left over. Think that is possible?

If none of that works out, then I'm going to get it fixed and purchase the car. Thanks.

I like your question, and will play ball with this one knowing how to deal with lease returns. " don't invest a dime in vehicle " let's first see how the report fare compared to your $1800.

First the dealer will except the lease return as they got nothing to do with the final inspection, and you know nothing about any accidents should you be asked. and area easy to solve.

You will get a report in the mail, let's deal with that when the time comes through this forum or email to keep it private, your choice

Did you mean I should let the dealer look at the car first or have the company that tells you the damage/penalty amount first?
If I get the damage fixed there won't be any out of pocket for me, as it is all covered by insurance of other driver. Thanks.

It's your choice, I can only repeat what I have already said " I would deal with the matter when the time comes " I dare say no matter what you fix it's likely appraiser from Nissan will still find something, therefore I would fix nil knowing I have $1800.to bargain with. " and they will bargain if you put up a fight "

I note you may be getting another vehicle from dealer ?, in such case you negotiate for a new vehicle and then want lease return included to be dealers responsibility , the dealer can fix vehicle at a much less cost than you can.

If you want to play the game and " try to " hang on much of your Insurance money there are ways and steps to follow, it's hard to explain via e-mail, if want to consider how you may approch this angle e-mail your phone number and best time to call.