Leasing Unveiled: The Inside Scoop

Debunking Common Myths About Leasing a Car

Many folks shy away from leasing, believing they'll end up in a financial maze. Perhaps they think they rack up too many miles, assume leasing is more expensive in the long run, fear they're stuck with the contract, or dread hefty down payments. We're here to set the record straight.

Leasing a car is easier than you think. Here are the tricks.

Money Factor Magic

Ever wondered about that "money factor"? Well, to turn it into something you can grasp – an APR – it's as easy as math gets. Multiply the money factor by 2400, and voilà, you've got your APR. Simple, right?

Lease vs. Purchase Showdown

Leasing

No Down Payment

  • Capitalized Cost (MSRP): $30,000
  • Residual Value (50% of MSRP): $15,000
  • Lease Term: 36 months
  • Money Factor: .00125
  • Acquisition Fee: $695

  • Monthly Lease Payment: $492.26
  • Total Lease Payments (36 months × $492.26) = $17,721.36
  • Residual Value = $15,000

  • Total Cost = Total Lease Payments + Residual Value = $17,721.36 + $15,000 = $32,721.36

Buying

60 month loan at 7% APR with no down payment

  • Selling Price (MSRP): $30,000
  • Loan Amount: $30,000 (No Down Payment)
  • Loan Term: 60 months
  • Interest Rate (APR): 7%

  • Monthly Loan Payment: $594.86

  • Total Loan Payments (60 months × $594.86) = $35,691.60
Walser Automotive Group , .