If you want to drive newer, safer, more reliable vehicles, prefer not commit to a sizeable down payment every few years, and also don’t drive an exorbitant amount every year, then a new car lease could be right for you. Leasing is designed for those who prefer to bypass the hassle of buying and selling each time they want to drive a new car or truck.
On the other hand, if you prefer long term relationships with a higher sense of commitment and ownership, then buying might be what’s better for you. Car-buying is typically best for shoppers who do not mind driving the same vehicle for over five years or even until it is no longer suited for the freeway.
Knowing the pros, cons, and overall benefits of leasing vs buying a car or truck is imperative. Be sure to examine factors like vehicle ownership, monthly payments, repair costs, and potential savings when considering the best new vehicle financing type for you.
When weighing the value of vehicle financing, new car or truck ownership absolutely comes along with many well-known advantages, most associated with outright ownership of the car. You may not be aware, however, there are also a few nice advantages to leasing, as well. It’s important to consider all financial aspects including down payment, monthly payments, term length, buyout payments, interest rate, depreciation, and maintenance & repair costs, before making a decision. A meticulous audit of your current financial situation, future needs, and your preference for commitment, will likely ensure that you make the ideal choice between leasing and buying a new car or truck.
Car lease payments are often times less expensive when compared to auto loan and car financing payments as the typical lease deal is pretty much renting with the option to buy out at the end of your lease term. Keep in mind when leasing that you will need a higher credit score, and will be required to carry collision and comprehensive insurance, though the same can be said for the lower rate auto loans. Although it can likely increase your monthly payments, it is also better to choose a model with the features you want or need, as personal satisfaction is often priceless.
Auto leases often include regular vehicle maintenance & repair. It’s important to remember this when projecting monthly costs of ownership vs leasing. No matter what make and model you select, mechanic bills are an uncertain cost that can rapidly add up. And for those of us who are not certified auto mechanics with a full toolset and hydraulic jack in the garage, leasing might be the best option for peace of mind.
In general, a new car, truck, or SUV lease saves money in the short term with lower monthly payments, while buying earns you a long term investment, meaning outright ownership of the value of the car at the time it is traded, sold, or paid-off. For best value on a lease, avoid lease return fees for terminating the vehicle lease early, going over mileage, or putting on excessive wear and tear. For your best investment on a purchased/financed vehicle, you can pay it off quickly and also avoid excessive wear and mileage.
Lease | Buy | |
Maintenance & Repair Costs | Typically Included | Not Included |
Down Payment | Smaller Down Payment | Larger Down Payment |
Monthly Payment | Smaller Monthly Payments | Larger Monthly Payments |
Ownership | No Ownership | Pride of Ownership |
APR % | Credit-Based | Credit-Based |
Finance Term | Approx. 2-4 Years | Approx. 3-6 Years |
Savings/Investment | Short Term Savings | Long Term Investment |
Vehicle Customization | Not Available | Available |
Pre-Owned Vehicles | Not Available | Available |
Poor Credit Financing | Not Available | Available |
New Vehicles | Available | Available |
Finnegan Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram knows that choosing the right Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram car and financing option is never easy. Our team of experienced Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram lease and finance specialist are on hand to help you make the right choice. Visit us online, by phone, or in-person at our dealership location in Rosenberg, TX. We look forward to serving you.