Buying vs Leasing
Buying vs. Leasing: Which is right for you?
It's important to know what you want to do when it comes time to invest in a new vehicle! We strive to keep our customers as informed as possible, especially when it comes to such a big decision like whether or not to buy or lease your next vehicle, so we've outlined the differences between the two! As always, give us a call with any questions you may have: (518) 762-7222
| Buying | Leasing | |
| Ownership | You can keep the vehicle for as long as you want! This is a benefit for those who drive a lot of miles or have kids or pets that may dirty or damage the interior. | You don't own the vehicle, but you get to use it as you please and return it at the end of the lease. You may also buy it out at the end of the lease. |
| Up-Front Costs | Includes: down payment, taxes, registration and other fees. | Typically include: first month's payment, refundable security deposit, down payment, taxes, registration and other fees. |
| Monthly Payments | Loan payments are usually higher than lease payments because you're paying off the entire purchase price of the vehicle, plus interest and other finance charges, taxes, and fees. However, as you make payments, you are gaining equity in the vehicle. Once you're done paying off the loan, the car is yours. Ultimately down the road, saving money since you won't have a car payment! | Lease payments are almost always lower than loan payments because you're paying only for the vehicle's depreciation during the lease term, plus interest charges, taxes, and fees. Once you're done with your lease, you have the option to get newer vehicles more often. |
| Early Termination | You can sell or trade in your vehicle any time you want. If necessary, money from the sale can be used to pay off any loan balance. | We advise all customers to ride out their lease term. However, if you must end it early, you might be charged with early-termination charges, which can be almost as costly as sticking out the rest of your lease term. |
| Vehicle Return | When you want to get a new vehicle, you'll have to sell or trade in your vehicle. | When your lease is up, all you do is pay any end of lease costs and walk away. You have the option to buy the vehicle outright, start a new lease in a different vehicle, extend your current lease, or just turn it in and walk away! |
| Future Value | Vehicles will depreciate, however, you'll have equity and its cash value is yours to use as you like. | Depreciation doesn't affect you financially so there's no risk, and you've still built credit, but on the downside, you don't have any equity in the vehicle. |
| Mileage | Your'e free to drive as many miles as you please! | Most leases limit the number of miles you may drive. You'll have to pay charges for exceeding the limits on your lease. |
| Excessive Wear & Tear | You don't have to worry about wear and tear, but it could lower the vehicle's trade-in value or resale value. | Most leases hold you responsible for any excess wear and tear. You'll have to pay charges for exceeding what is considered normal wear and tear. You will also have factory warranty coverage. |
| End of Term | At the end of the loan term (typically 4-5 years,) you have no further payments and you have built equity to help pay for your next vehicle. | At the end of the lease (typically 2-4 years,) you'll have to finance the purchase of the car or lease, or buy another. |
| Customization | The vehicle is yours to customize as you please. | The lessor wants the vehicle returned in sellable condition. Any modifications made will have to be removed before you return the vehicle. |
Still Deciding Between Buying vs Leasing Your Next Toyota?
If you’re in or around Yorkville, Utica, or Oneida County, NY, Steet Toyota is here to help you make the smart choice. Whether you're looking for financing a new Toyota sedan, SUV, hybrid, or truck or exploring lease specials, our team will walk you through all the costs, long-term value, and what fits your lifestyle and driving habits.
- ✅ Transparent Costs: We break down down payments, monthly payments (or lease-payments), taxes, registration, and other fees up front so there are no surprises.
- ✅ Mileage & Use Considerations: Drive a lot for work, family, or road trips? Buying may make more sense. If you like changing vehicles every few years, leasing might save you cash.
- ✅ Resale & End-of-Term Options: Own it, trade it, or return it; we’ll show you the full spectrum of what happens at the end of a loan or lease.
- ✅ Warranty, Maintenance & Care: From ToyotaCare to regular service, we’ll explain what’s covered under leasing vs owning, especially for hybrids and EV models.
If you want personalized guidance tailored to your budget, credit, or preferred Toyota model, call Steet Toyota at (315) 736-8241, stop in at 4991 Commercial Drive, Yorkville, NY, or view our current new & lease specials online.