EV maker Lucid Motors is facing growing criticism from lease customers after reports emerged of unexpectedly high charges for minor wear and tear during Lucid Air lease returns—including a $1,450 fee for tiny windshield chips. Customers say the company’s lease inspection process lacks consistency, and many are questioning Lucid’s standards and transparency.


Lease Returns Spark Frustration Over Surprise Fees

The issue came to light in June when a Lucid Air lessee shared on the Lucid Owners Forum that he had been billed $1,825 after returning his lease. Of that amount, a staggering $1,450 was attributed to three small glass chips found on the windshield. These minor blemishes weren’t disclosed at the time of return, and the customer, despite having full glass insurance coverage, was given no chance to file a claim.

Other reported “damage” included a sun visor issue that forum users couldn’t even identify in the inspection photos. The billing process added insult to injury—the customer received repeated invoices via mail, was told to pay online or by phone, but couldn’t log in after his account was deactivated. Calling the number led him directly to a collections agency, and Lucid Financial Services failed to return his calls for weeks.

Lucid Air Pure – Full Specs, Features, Range & Comparison | EVDANCE


Some Customers Hit With Bills Exceeding $5,000

Additional reports followed, with one lessee receiving a $5,800 charge well after returning his vehicle—without an initial explanation. Ironically, the Lucid staff member who accepted his lease reportedly described it as “one of the cleanest returns” she’d seen. The customer didn’t request a pre-inspection because, according to Lucid’s public guidelines, his vehicle showed no signs of excessive wear.

When he finally received itemized charges, they included $585 for a paint speck described as “dirt in paint,” $1,200 for missing inner fender plastic, and $200 for worn rubber in the smartphone tray. Many forum members questioned whether these items genuinely violated Lucid’s own damage policies.


Lucid’s Wear and Tear Guidelines Raise Eyebrows

According to Lucid’s lease guidelines, charges apply to repainted body panels with debris or defects, or if paint chips exceed 11 in number. For scratches, the threshold is “larger than a credit card.” The “dirt in paint” noted on one return seems to fall well below these criteria. Inside the cabin, Lucid’s policy allows charges for “any tears, holes, or burns regardless of size”, giving inspectors wide latitude and leading many to feel the standards are overly strict—or vague by design.

View Interior Photos of the 2024 Lucid Air Pure RWD | EVDANCE


Lucid Responds but Offers Few Concrete Solutions

When The Drive reached out, Lucid acknowledged inconsistencies in how lease return charges have been handled. In a statement, the company said:

“We are aware of some instances where our lease turn-in standards have not been interpreted consistently. We are collaborating with our banking partner to resolve disputes and sincerely apologize to those who have been inconvenienced.”

However, Lucid declined to clarify what specific steps are being taken to improve oversight or realign inspection practices with published policies. Lease financing is operated by Lucid Financial Services, a trade name for Bank of America, and inspection services are handled by AutoVIN, further complicating accountability when customers seek support.

Air Pure - Lucid Motors | EVDANCE


Customers Struggle With Confusing Communication Channels

One frustrated customer summed it up:

“You get bounced around between Lucid, LFS, BoA’s collections department, and no one knows who’s responsible. Even the employees seem unsure who to contact internally.”

This fragmented process has left many lessees feeling helpless. Some say they’ve received charges months after return, with little to no explanation or way to dispute them easily.


One Small Win—But It Came With a Catch

One forum member reported success after cc’ing Lucid executives in a final appeal email. A $200 charge for a 1.5-inch wheel scuff—a size Lucid’s own documentation says is not chargeable—was eventually waived. In the reply, a Lucid Financial Services manager referred to the refund as an act of “goodwill.”

While the customer appreciated the outcome, he was unimpressed with the framing:

“It’s disappointing they treated the correction like a favor instead of simply doing what’s right.”

He added that he’s currently leasing another Lucid but won’t be renewing it.

Lucid Air Touring and Air Pure Now Ready for the Road with Market-Leading Range and Aero | EVDANCE


Uncertainty Remains as Pressure Mounts on Lucid

As customer frustration grows, Lucid now finds itself under pressure to standardize its lease inspection process, clarify responsibility across its service providers, and ensure that minor wear and tear isn't penalized unfairly. For now, EV drivers returning their Lucid Air leases may want to document every inch of their vehicle—and brace for unexpected charges.

FAQs

What is the real-world range of the Lucid Air?

The Lucid Air offers a best-in-class EPA-estimated range of up to 516 miles, depending on the model. The Grand Touring version leads with the highest range, making it ideal for long-distance EV travel.

How long does it take to charge a Lucid Air?

Using a DC fast charger, the Lucid Air can add up to 200 miles of range in about 15 minutes. Level 2 home charging typically takes 9 to 12 hours for a full charge, depending on amperage.

Does the Lucid Air support Tesla Superchargers?

Currently, Lucid vehicles use the CCS charging standard and are not natively compatible with Tesla Superchargers unless an adapter is provided. However, NACS adoption may change this in the future.

What is the price of a Lucid Air?

As of 2025, Lucid Air pricing starts at around $69,900 for the Air Pure and can exceed $139,000 for the Grand Touring or Sapphire editions. Prices vary based on trim, battery size, and optional features.

Is Lucid Motors a reliable brand?

Lucid Motors has positioned itself as a premium EV brand with strong performance, luxury materials, and cutting-edge tech. While still relatively new, customer feedback has been generally positive, though service availability is still expanding.

Where are Lucid vehicles manufactured?

Lucid Motors manufactures its vehicles in Casa Grande, Arizona, at its state-of-the-art AMP-1 facility—the first greenfield EV factory built in North America.

Does Lucid offer a lease or financing plan?

Yes, Lucid Financial Services—operated in partnership with Bank of America—offers lease and financing options. However, some customers have raised concerns about end-of-lease charges, so it's important to review lease terms closely.

What are the main differences between Lucid Air Pure, Touring, and Grand Touring?
  • Air Pure: Entry-level with RWD or AWD, and minimalist luxury
  • Air Touring: Mid-range performance with more features and AWD standard
  • Air Grand Touring: Premium range, power, and luxury features with over 500 miles of range
How does Lucid’s DreamDrive compare to Tesla Autopilot?

Lucid's DreamDrive offers advanced driver assistance features including adaptive cruise, lane centering, and highway assist. While it's not fully autonomous, it competes closely with Tesla Autopilot and GM’s Super Cruise.

Is there a Lucid app to control the car remotely?

Yes, Lucid offers a mobile app for iOS and Android that allows remote vehicle monitoring, charging control, pre-conditioning, and real-time location tracking.

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