Own or Lease
Leasing can reduce repair risk, but it can also produce surprise charges at turn‑in. This section explains the economics and the fine print in plain English. U.S.-focused; rules and programs vary by lender and state.
Lease vs Buy
A plain-English comparison beyond the monthly payment.
Lease Return Fees & Charges
The big “surprise bill” categories and how to control them.
Wear-and-Tear Charges
What counts as excess wear and how inspections work.
Lease-End Inspection Checklist
Photos, tires, keys, records—avoid surprise bills.
Disposition Fee
What it is, when it applies, when it’s waived.
Maintenance & Records
Do you need dealer service? How to keep proof.
Excess Mileage Fees
How they work and how to estimate the cost.
Normal vs Excess Wear
How condition guides draw the line.
Early Termination Fees
Why ending early is usually expensive.
Insurance Requirements
Why leases often require higher coverage.
Mileage Fee Calculator
Estimate excess mileage charges (miles + km).
Lease vs Buy Calculator
Compare totals over a shared time horizon.