[stewy604]

When you say settlement, I assume you mean the buyout value or the residual value at the end of the lease? A higher residual value can be used to entice a buyer with lower monthly payments. If your plan is to turn the vehicle in and roll into another BMW, or something else, then its a win/win for you. I haven't had any experience with BMW on this, but I have with two other brands. In both cases, I was able to re-negotiate the buyout amount, threatening to take my business elsewhere. At the end of the day, the dealer/brand wants you to remain loyal (or at least they should). Correct on your last comment, regardless of market value vs. residual value, you're not entitled to pay or be credited the difference.