You can assign the contract to someone else. This practice is called an "assignment" or, in common parlance, a "lease transfer." An assignment releases you from any liability.
You can also sublease the vehicle. If you choose to do so, you remain liable for the vehicle.
How to transfer a lease or sublease a vehicle
You must obtain the merchant's consent and provide the name and address of the person to whom you want to assign the contract or sublease the vehicle.
If the merchant has not advised you of their refusal within 15 days following the receipt of the notice of assignment or sublease, it means the transfer has been accepted.
If the merchant refuses, you can dispute their decision in court. It will be the merchant's responsibility to explain the reasons for the refusal.
When the contract prohibits assignments or subleases
Some merchants use long-term leasing contracts that prohibit assignments or subleases. Others ask for unreasonable fees to carry out an assignment or a sublease.
These conditions can be considered unfair, especially if they force you to return your vehicle to the merchant and to pay prohibitive cancellation fees as damages. If you have a problem with a merchant regarding this matter, only the courts can settle it.
Last update : November 24, 2017
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The information contained on this page is presented in simple terms to make it easier to understand. It does not replace the texts of the laws and regulations.
