On the Dash
- Regulators continue to scrutinize lease-end transactions, pricing disclosures and dealer-added fees.
- The settlement underscores the importance of transparent documentation and compliance in lease buyout transactions.
- Consumers financed through Nissan Motor Acceptance Company will also receive reimbursement for excess loan interest tied to inflated vehicle prices.
New York Attorney General Letitia James announced a settlement requiring Nissan Motor Acceptance Company (NMAC) to provide statewide refunds to consumers overcharged during lease buyout transactions, expanding restitution beyond previously settled cases.
State investigators launched the probe after receiving consumer complaints during the COVID-19 pandemic. They found that dealerships failed to honor predetermined lease-end purchase prices, instead adding administrative charges, dealership fees and altered invoices to inflate final costs.
Previous enforcement actions against 15 Nissan dealerships generated more than $4.5 million in consumer restitution and $1 million in penalties, with more than 3,100 consumers already receiving refunds. The new agreement with NMAC extends that relief to consumers affected at remaining Nissan dealerships throughout the state.
Eligible consumers will receive full refunds covering all overcharges. Buyers who financed their buyouts through NMAC will also receive reimbursement for additional loan interest tied to inflated vehicle prices. Consumers do not need to take any action to receive payment.
NMAC will distribute refunds by mail on a rolling basis throughout 2026 as it completes a statewide audit of dealership transactions. The settlement also requires the company to modify lease terms and business practices to prevent future disputes.
James said the agreement ensures consumers receive the lease-end pricing promised in their original contracts.
