Auto Lease Calculator Standard Lease Lease vs. Buy Mileage Overage Lease End ...
Auto Lease Calculator
Standard Lease
Vehicle Price ($)
Down Payment ($)
Lease Term (Months)
Residual Value (%)
Money Factor
Sales Tax Rate (%)
Lease vs. Buy Comparison
Vehicle Price ($)
Lease Down Payment ($)
Loan Down Payment ($)
Lease Term (Months)
Loan Term (Months)
Interest Rate (%)
Mileage Overage Calculator
Actual Miles Driven
Allowed Miles per Year
Lease Term (Years)
Overage Fee per Mile ($)
Excess Wear & Tear Fee ($)
Lease End Options
Residual Value ($)
Market Value ($)
Remaining Lease Payments ($)
Sales Tax on Purchase (%)
Disposition Fee ($)
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Lease Cost Breakdown
Understanding Auto Lease Calculations
Leasing a vehicle offers lower monthly payments and the ability to drive a new car every few years, but it comes with unique financial considerations that differ significantly from traditional car buying.
Standard lease calculations involve complex components including depreciation, money factor (interest rate), residual value, and various fees. Lease vs. buy comparisons help determine which option provides better long-term value based on your driving habits and financial goals.
Mileage overage fees can significantly increase your total lease cost if you exceed your allotted miles, while lease end options require careful analysis of whether to purchase, return, or trade-in your vehicle based on current market values.
Use these calculators to make informed decisions that align with your budget, driving needs, and long-term automotive strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions
A: The money factor is the leasing equivalent of an interest rate. To convert it to an annual percentage rate (APR), multiply by 2,400. For example, a money factor of 0.00125 equals 3% APR (0.00125 × 2,400 = 3%). This conversion helps you compare lease financing costs with traditional auto loan rates.
A: Residual value is the estimated worth of your vehicle at the end of the lease term, expressed as a percentage of the MSRP. It's determined by the leasing company based on historical depreciation data, market trends, and vehicle reliability. Higher residual values result in lower monthly payments because you're only paying for the depreciation during your lease term.
A: Common fees due at signing include the down payment (cap cost reduction), first month's payment, security deposit, acquisition fee (typically $500-$1,000), sales tax on the down payment and monthly payments, and registration fees. Some of these fees may be rolled into your monthly payment if you prefer lower upfront costs.
A: Most leases come with mileage limits of 10,000-15,000 miles per year. Exceeding these limits results in overage charges, typically $0.15-$0.30 per extra mile. If you drive significantly more than average, consider purchasing additional miles upfront at a discounted rate or choosing a high-mileage lease option.
A: You typically have three options: (1) Return the vehicle and pay any disposition fees, (2) Purchase the vehicle at the predetermined residual value plus applicable taxes, or (3) Trade in the vehicle toward a new lease or purchase. If the market value exceeds the residual value, purchasing and immediately selling can be profitable.
A: Leasing is often better if you prefer driving new vehicles every 2-3 years, drive within mileage limits, want lower monthly payments, and don't mind not building equity. Buying is better if you drive more than 15,000 miles annually, plan to keep the vehicle long-term, or want the freedom to modify your car.
A: To minimize end-of-lease charges: (1) Stay within your mileage allowance, (2) Maintain the vehicle well to avoid excess wear and tear fees, (3) Get any required maintenance done according to the manufacturer's schedule, (4) Consider purchasing wear and tear protection insurance, and (5) Get pre-inspected by a third party before returning the vehicle.