Buying vs. Leasing
Buying vs. Leasing
Buying
Ownership
You own the vehicle and get to keep it as long as you want
Up-Front Costs
They include the cash price or a down payment, taxes, registration and other fees.
Monthly Payments
Loan payments are usually higher than lease payments because you're paying off the entire purchase price of the vehicle, plus interest and other finance charges, taxes, and fees.
Early Termination
You can sell or trade your vehicle at any time. If necessary, money from the sale can be used to pay off any loan balance.
Vehicle Return
You'll have to deal with selling or trading in your car when you decide you want a different one.
Future Value
The vehicle will depreciate but its cash value is yours to use as you like.
Mileage
You're free to dive as many miles as you want. (But higher mileage lowers the vehicle's trade-in or resale value.)
Excessive Wear and Tear
You don't have to worry about wear and tear, but it could lower the vehicle's trade-in or resale value.
End of Term
At the end of the loan term (typically four to five years), you have no further payments and you have built equity to help pay for your next vehicle.
The vehicle is yours to modify or customize as you like.
Leasing
Ownership
You don't own the vehicle. You get to use the vehicle, but you must return it at the end of the lease unless you decide to buy it.
Up-Front Costs
They typically include the first month's payment, a refundable security deposit, a down payment, taxes, registration, and other fees.
Monthly Payments
Lease payments are almost always lower than loan payments because you're paying only for the vehicle's depreciation during the lease term, plus interest charges (called rent charges), taxes and fees.
Early Termination
If you end the lease early, early termination charges can be almost as costly as sticking with the contract.
Vehicle Return
You can return the vehicle at lease-end, pay any end-of-lease cost, and walk away.
Future Value
On the plus side, its future value doesn't affect you financially. On the negative side, you don't have any equity in the vehicle.
Mileage
Most leases limit the number of miles you may drive, often 12,000 to 15,000 miles per year. (You can negotiate a higher mileage limit.)You'll have to pay charges for exceeding your limits.
Excessive Wear and Tear
Most leases hold you responsible. You'll have to pay extra charges for exceeding what is considered normal wear and tear.
At the end of the lease (typically two to four years), you'll have to finance the purchase of the car or lease or buy another.
Because the lessor wants the vehicle returned in sell able condition, any modifications or custom parts you add will need to be removed before you return the vehicle. If there is any residual damage, you'll have to pay to have it fixed.