Pros and Cons of Leasing a Car

For some drivers, the benefits of leasing a car include lower monthly payments and easier access to newer vehicles. For others, buying may make more sense. The right choice depends on how long you plan to keep the car and how much flexibility you want.

Quick take: If you like driving a newer car every few years and don’t put a lot of miles on it, leasing may be worth a closer look. If long-term cost and ownership matter more, buying may be the better fit.

If you’re still comparing vehicle choices, you may also find “Buying a Used Car” and “Guide for the First-Time Car Buyer” helpful.

Pros of leasing a car

Lower monthly payments

A monthly lease payment may be less than a loan payment on the same car. A lease payment accounts for the depreciation value of the car, rather than the total value of the car when it’s purchased.

Fewer costly repairs

Generally, leased cars are newer and in better condition. Cars in their prime years are less likely to need costly repairs. Typically, leased cars are covered by the manufacturer’s warranty and include free oil changes and other, covered repairs.

A safer vehicle

Leasing a car may allow you to drive a newer vehicle than you could comfortably buy outright or finance. As a result, you may get a vehicle with updated safety features.

Tax advantages

Self-employed? You may be eligible for tax benefits on a leased car. But if you also use the vehicle for personal reasons, you may need to prorate the deduction based on a percentage of use.

Easy returns

When your lease ends, you return the car to the dealership. You don’t have to worry about finding out the car’s trade-in value or finding a buyer.

Cons of leasing a car

Higher overall costs

Over time, leasing a car costs more than buying one, especially if you lease multiple cars in a row and have monthly payments for years. In contrast, if you take out a loan to buy a car, you’ll eventually pay it off.

Wear-and-tear fees

It’s important to return a leased car in pristine condition — or you may get stuck with a costly wear-and-tear fee. Kids, pets or just a few dings from parking lots can rack up wear-and-tear fees.

Limited mileage

Most lease contracts limit the number of miles you’re allowed to drive, typically 12,000 per year. Be aware of “low mileage” leases, which only allow 10,000 miles per year. If you go over, fees can range from 10 to 20 cents per mile.

Early termination fees

Many car leases have early termination fees or other penalties if you need to cancel early. Sometimes, these charges can cost as much as the entire lease.

Costly parts

You’ll still have to pay for some maintenance, like new tires. Depending on your vehicle, this may be expensive, especially if it’s a nicer vehicle that has high-end wheels.

Is leasing a car worth it?

Many drivers ask whether leasing a car is worth it. In general, leasing may make sense if you prefer newer vehicles, want predictable monthly payments and don’t drive far each year. Buying may be a stronger option if you want to build long-term value, customize your vehicle or avoid ongoing lease cycles.

If you’re asking, “Why should I lease a car?” the answer usually comes down to lifestyle. Leasing can be appealing if you want to change vehicles more often, stay within warranty periods and avoid some of the hassle of selling a car later.

Steps to leasing a car

Learn about leasing

Research leasing online to decide if it's right for you.

Think long term

Consider keeping the car up to three years so you have it while the manufacturer’s warranty protects the car.

Estimate monthly payments

Look for a car lease calculator online to estimate a monthly payment for your area. Make sure leasing a car fits into your budget.

Look for vehicle deals

It’s time to shop around. Look online or visit local dealerships to find a car that suits your needs.

Test-drive

Visit dealerships to test-drive vehicles in person. See the car up close, ask questions and get a feel for how it drives.

Negotiate a lease

Once you find a vehicle you like, discuss a lease’s terms with a salesperson. Ask questions and see if you can negotiate a lower price.

Sign the paperwork

When you’ve settled on the right vehicle and contract, sign your lease and drive. Make sure to read all of the paperwork and keep copies for your records.

Cost of leasing vs. buying

Here’s a breakdown of the average total out-of-pocket costs over six years, which can help when comparing the advantages of leasing a car with buying:

• Leasing a car: $38,880*
• Buying a new car: $40,184
• Buying a used car: $27,167

* An average lease lasts three years. To accurately compare to the average six-year loan/ownership of a vehicle, this lease estimate includes a second three-year lease.

What to do when your lease ends

At the end of your lease’s term, you have three options:

Option 1: Lease another car

If leasing is still a good option for you, return your car to the dealership and lease another model. You’ll still go through the inspection, pay a disposition fee (a fee at the end of the lease to prepare the car for the next buyer that can cost between $300 and $400) and wear-and-tear fees, but the dealership may offer incentives to lease again.

Option 2: Return the car without a replacement

You can return a leased car without getting a new one. Maybe you want to take some time before buying a new car. Or maybe it was a second car, and you’ve decided to downsize. You’ll still go through the inspection and pay any necessary fees.

Option 3: Buy your leased car

If you prefer to buy your leased car, check your lease agreement for the residual value – the price you can purchase it for at the end of the term. Your lease should state the value of the car when it’s time to return it, called “residual value.” Note: The actual value may be less than the residual value, so shop around first.

Steps to return a leased car

• Prepare for an inspection. If you see minor dents or paint chips that you can repair on your own, now’s the time. Do anything possible to prevent additional wear-and-tear fees.
• Get a second inspection. If you get an initial inspection and then decide to make repairs, it’s OK to get a second inspection. It may help you save in fees.
• Pick a dealership. Usually, you can return a leased car to any dealership that’s the same brand. But you may have the easiest experience returning it to the same dealership where you initially leased the car.
• Give back everything. Clean out your car to ensure you have all your belongings. Gather all the leased items, including a second set of keys, floor mats or spare tires. Otherwise, you may get charged for keeping these items.

How leasing impacts auto insurance

Whether you lease or buy a vehicle, you’re likely legally required to purchase auto insurance. If you lease a car, though, you may need more coverage than you would otherwise choose. Leasing companies often want their vehicles more fully protected, which can mean requiring additional insurance. Discuss your car insurance requirements when negotiating your lease.

You can also contact your insurer to understand your policy details, coverage options and any requirements tied to a leased vehicle. If you’re comparing costs, it may also help to review “Car Insurance for Electric Cars” or “How Much Car Insurance Do I Need?”