CanadianQtip

I finally took the next step in purchasing the S4 by test driving the car and talking over the numbers with the sales rep.

I was surprised to hear that there aren't many ways of getting around the Security Deposit. The only way that the sales rep mentioned was to raise the lease rate (no thanks, it's already at 6.4%!).

Based on my experience, the Security Deposit should be waived when you add the Safe Lease (i.e. Wear Care) option.

Anyone know whether this is true? Do I still need to pay the Security Deposit even with the Safe Lease option?

DrGP

I leased mine without a security deposit. I also ordered mine without putting down any money at the time the car was ordered. I assume, since I had leased and financed a few previous cars with AFS, that I had already established a credit rating with AFS. When I went to lease my previous BMW, they did require a security deposit, But had I then leased a second BMW, I was told a security deposit would not be necessary. BTW, I have been leasing for close to 20 yrs and have never heard of a "Safe Lease Option"

CanadianQtip

Ya, I think that's how it works for repeat customers. They'll waive your security deposit.

The S4 will be my first lease through Audi Financial.

Safe Lease is similar to Wear Care offered by other manufacturers. It will cover up to $5,000 of damage when the car is returned after lease without you paying anything out of pocket (other than the $1000 needed to purchase Safe Lease).

Sandy S

Words like "Safe Lease option" make me want to grab my wallet to make sure it's still there. :-)

bimmers2

0 deposit 0 down lease on B8S4 after having purchased B8A4. Also 0 deposit if lease X5 after purchased 2 bmws.

S5nirvana

Not sure there's much you can do if it's your first lease through AFS.

asm777

Not sure if AFS is the same in the US and Canada. Was not required to put down a security deposit. Only paid first month + license/fees and also got base rate AFS MF and residual.

Second Audi but first lease through AFS. First Audi was purchased.

Hope that helps!

bateman

I was first time AFS. 0 security deposit. Was told that I had to put half first month on my order, but they just took my credit card number and never charged it. The finance guy showed me the slip he had when I picked up the car, and he just tore it up.

big windy

I also did not pay a security deposit. I think it also depends on your credit score.

CanadianQtip

Seems like there is no "policy" on the matter unless if there is a different between AFS US and Canada.

I'll press my sales guy some more. It doesn't make any sense to put a security deposit down when the "Safe Lease" covers $5000 of damages to begin with.