Where do end of lease cars get sold?
Quick answer: Most end-of-lease cars are sold into the trade through auctions or directly to dealer groups, then reappear on main dealer and used car forecourts, car supermarkets or occasionally go for export, rather than being sold straight to the public by the finance company.
Usually, lease cars are delivered to a car auction after they are returned. They are often taken straight there by a driver, where they sit in an area ready for inspection.
If you are near to us, then this is often Aston Barclay, better known as Chelmsford Car Auction. They hold several auctions per week, currently selling lease cars on a Monday. If you are thinking of buying an ex-lease vehicle, we suggest you visit their website and read their buyer's guide. But before doing that, read the next section on how to buy your leased car.
Written by Danny Argent. Last updated 09/12/2025 16:01