Yes, you can sublease a car, but it is a complex process that is often prohibited or heavily restricted by the original leasing contract. The feasibility depends entirely on the policies of the finance company that holds the lease. The single most critical step is to contact your lessor directly for written permission before making any arrangements.
Most major leasing companies, including those for brands like Honda, Toyota, and Ford, explicitly forbid subleasing in their standard agreements. They do this to mitigate their financial risk. When you lease a car, the lender has approved your specific credit profile. A sublessee is a complete unknown, and if they default on payments or damage the vehicle, you, the original lessee, are legally and financially responsible.
If your lessor does allow it, you must treat the sublease like a formal rental agreement.
- Vet the Sublessee: Conduct a credit check and verify their driver's license and insurance. You need to be confident in their ability to pay and drive responsibly.
- Create a Formal Contract: The agreement should outline the sublease term, monthly payment, mileage limits (adhering to your original lease's cap), maintenance responsibilities, and procedures for early termination.
- Insurance is Critical: The sublessee must have their own insurance policy that meets or exceeds the coverage requirements of your lease. You should contact your own insurance agent to confirm that you remain adequately protected.
Proceeding without lessor approval is a serious breach of contract. The lessor could demand immediate, full repayment of the lease, repossess the vehicle, and sue for damages. The potential financial and legal headaches make subleasing a car a high-risk endeavor that is generally not recommended.
