Welcome,  


NAVIGATION
Introduction
Step 1: How leasing works.
Step 2: Checking incentives and special lease deals.
Step 3: How long should your lease be?
Step 4: Estimating your lease payments.
Step 5: Finding the exact car to lease.
Step 6: Test driving the car salesman
Step 7: The final test drive.
Step 8: How to negotiate a lease payment.
Step 9: Reviewing and signing the paperwork.
Step 10: Successfully managing your leased vehicle.
Checklist

PHOTOS


(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)


Leasing Tips

10 Steps to Leasing a New Car

Step 10: Successfully managing your leased vehicle.
By Philip Reed, Senior Consumer Advice Editor
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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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