Lease Transfer
Also known as: Lease Assumption, Lease Swap, Lease Takeover
A lease transfer is the process of transferring your lease obligation to another person, who assumes all remaining payments and terms. Most manufacturers allow lease transfers for a fee of $300-$500.
How Lease Transfer Works
If you need to get out of a lease early, transferring it to another qualified buyer is typically the cheapest option. The new person takes over your remaining payments, mileage allowance, and lease terms. The process involves: (1) finding a buyer (Swapalease, LeaseTrader, or forums), (2) the buyer applying for credit approval from the leasing company, (3) paying the transfer fee ($300-$500), and (4) completing the paperwork. Important: some manufacturers (BMW, Mercedes) keep the original lessee partially liable even after transfer. Others (Honda, Toyota) fully release you. Check your contract for "assignability" terms. Not all leases are transferable — some manufacturers prohibit it entirely.
Example
You have 18 months left on a lease at $400/month. Early termination would cost $7,500+. Instead, you list it on Swapalease, find a buyer, and transfer for a $350 fee. Total cost: $350 vs. $7,500+.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I transfer my car lease to someone else?
List your lease on sites like Swapalease or LeaseTrader to find a buyer. The buyer applies for credit approval through the leasing company. Once approved, you both complete the transfer paperwork and pay the transfer fee ($300-$500). The process typically takes 2-4 weeks.
Am I still liable after transferring a lease?
It depends on the manufacturer. Some (Honda, Toyota, Hyundai) fully release the original lessee after transfer. Others (BMW, Mercedes-Benz) keep you secondarily liable — meaning if the new lessee defaults, you could be responsible. Always check your lease contract for the assignability clause.
Which manufacturers allow lease transfers?
Most major manufacturers allow lease transfers, including Toyota, Honda, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Ford, and Hyundai. Some may limit transfers to once per lease term. A few manufacturers or specific programs prohibit transfers entirely. Contact your leasing company to confirm before listing your lease.
Related Lease Terms
Early lease termination is the act of ending a car lease before the contracted term expires.
Lease AssumptionA lease assumption is the process of taking over someone else's existing car lease, inheriting their remaining payments, mileage allowance, and lease terms.
Excess Mileage ChargeAn excess mileage charge is a per-mile fee ($0.
See Real Lease Deals
Compare verified lease payments from real buyers. Know what a good deal looks like before you sign.