$4,900 for a Taillight? Lucid's Absurd Lease Fees Are Detering Potential Buyers | Carscoops

      After a Lucid Air owner was hit with a $7,400 bill at the end of their lease, growing frustration led the automaker to reconsider its inspection procedures.

      A lessee of a Lucid Air received charges amounting to thousands for minor cosmetic damage, with the most expensive item being a replacement for the right taillight due to a small crack. Bank of America is reported to utilize third-party inspectors for lease returns.

      Lucid seems to continually face issues regarding end-of-lease fees. Initial complaints have evolved into a consistent expression of dissatisfaction, as more customers recount their experiences online regarding unexpectedly high bills at the end of their leases.

      The most recent case could be the most severe yet, causing some customers to reconsider leasing a Lucid altogether.

      Increasing Complaints About Leases

      In several recent situations, the primary charge encountered by this customer was for a replacement of the front bumper. An inspector’s report indicated that when the Air was returned, 10 small rock chips, a one-inch crack, and a one-inch scratch were deemed sufficient to warrant completely replacing the bumper, resulting in a $2,400 bill.

      However, this isn't the most outrageous charge. The owner pointed out that the right taillight had a tiny hairline crack along a glue line, which is nearly imperceptible and doesn't allow for water to enter. Nonetheless, they were billed $4,900 for a replacement.

      Additionally, a $100 charge was applied for minor damage to the left taillight, which seems inconsistent since the entire unit was said to need replacement, something that cannot reasonably be done for that price. Another $200 charge was added for a seven-inch scrape on the left front wheel.

      Lucid Financial Services, the automaker's leasing division, collaborates with Bank of America, which is believed to hire independent inspection firms to examine vehicles when leases end.

      Growing Backlash

      Reports like this are harming Lucid's reputation. One user on Reddit mentioned their intention to switch from Rivian to Lucid at the end of their lease but changed their mind after witnessing how these charges are managed. They stated they would only reconsider if Lucid improves its processes.

      Another individual said they canceled their Gravity order entirely due to the excessive end-of-lease fees.

      What Lucid Has Stated

      Lucid appears to recognize the increasing discontent among customers. In a recent email sent to a leasing client and shared with Carscoops, the automaker acknowledged the problems and clarified what constitutes appropriate end-of-lease charges:

      “At Lucid Motors, we aim to provide an exceptional experience throughout ownership, including at the end of your lease. We recognize that some customers have experienced concerns or confusion during the lease-return procedure, and we want to address those experiences directly,” the letter states.

      “We sincerely apologize for any frustration or inconvenience you may have faced. Your feedback indicates that our communication, inspection, and billing processes have, in some instances, failed to meet our standards for transparency and fairness.

      “Lucid is currently reassessing all recent charges at lease-end to ensure their accuracy, appropriateness, and alignment with our published policies. We are also collaborating closely with our finance and inspection partners to enhance clarity in inspections, billing, and the overall return experience.

      “Additionally, please note that scratches on underbody plates and those less than 3.5 inches on the vehicle's body will not incur charges. We have also removed fees for wheel scrapes under 3.5 inches, and reduced charges for wheel scrapes between 3.5 to 12 inches to $200. There will also be no charges for interior stains smaller than 3.5 inches.

      “If you believe a charge you've received may be incorrect or wish to request a review, please reach out to Lucid Financial Services at 1-833-423-0369.

      “Thank you for being part of the Lucid community and allowing us the opportunity to address this. Your trust and satisfaction are extremely important to us.”

      While Lucid’s acknowledgment and policy changes seem to indicate a desire to restore trust, the lasting impact will largely depend on whether future lease customers observe real changes instead of just more apologies.