

(Enlarge photo)
As you drive your leased vehicle, keep your eye on the miles and make sure you have all the scheduled maintenance performed. (Photo courtesy of Mazda North American Operation)
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Leasing Tips
10 Steps to Leasing a New Car
Step 10: Successfully managing your leased vehicle.
By Philip Reed, Senior Consumer Advice Editor Email
As you drive your leased vehicle, you need to remember that the car will have
to be returned in good condition. Have all the scheduled maintenance performed
at an authorized dealer and keep your eye on the odometer to avoid exceeding the
mileage limit.
When the time approaches to end the lease, you will have several
alternatives. You can turn it back in and lease a new vehicle. You can buy
the car for the residual amount stated in your contract and continue driving it.
In some cases, you can even extend your lease term on a month-to-month basis while
you decide what your best course of action will be. Whatever you decide to do,
take the time to consider each avenue carefully. Check current market values of
the cars that interest you (using Edmunds.com True Market Value prices) and shop for lease deals from manufacturers.
You've reached the end of the final step. Now, it's time to go out and put your
knowledge into action. Just remember, the time you take to research your leasing
decision will pay dividends over the years. You'll not only be driving a car that
suits your needs, but you'll be saving money in the process. That's a big payoff
for a little bit of work.
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