18 lease quote traps, and what to say back
Spot quote changes, unclear fees and missing trade equity, with questions you can take to the dealer.
Plain-English guides
Learn about car leasing
Start with the basics, check a quote or plan for lease end. These guides explain the numbers and give you questions to ask before you decide.
Shop and compare quotes
Dealer fees: read the whole lease quote
Sort government charges, lessor fees and optional products before comparing the cost of a lease.
How to negotiate a lease, one number at a time
Request written quotes, compare the full cost and check the contract before you sign.
Using a leasing broker: compare the service and the deal
Ask who represents you, who pays the broker, what the fee covers and which dealer and lessor will complete the lease.
Find a quick answer
Car lease glossary: the words behind the worksheet
Look up the words on a lease worksheet, from acquisition fee to excess wear.
Car leasing FAQ: straight answers before and after signing
Find answers about shopping, payments, mileage, lease end, moving and shipping a leased car.
Plan for lease end
Ending a lease early: compare your options
Request written exit figures, check transfer and purchase restrictions, and keep old debt visible before changing cars.
Lease end: return it, buy it or use its equity
Compare returning or buying the car, check possible equity and prepare for the final handoff.
Moving with a leased car: plan before you book
Check lessor permission, registration, insurance and transport arrangements before moving a leased vehicle to another state.
Start with the numbers
EV or gasoline lease in 2026: compare the full cost
Separate current manufacturer lease cash from ended federal vehicle credits, then compare charging, fuel and lease costs.
Lease or buy? Compare the years, not just the payment
Compare leasing and buying over the same period, including upfront costs, loan balance and resale value.
Lease tax: what to confirm before signing
Understand why lease tax varies with the transaction, and ask for the tax base, rate, timing and jurisdiction in writing.
Leasing 101: understand the deal before you sign
Learn how a lease payment works and what you may owe at signing and lease end.
Money factor: understand the rent charge
Learn how the money factor affects a common lease calculation and what to ask before comparing financing terms.