Great Lease Deals on Used Wheels

Are you struggling with the decision whether to buy or lease a new car? You many not realize that leasing a used car is another option that's available to you. Leasing a used vehicle is an attractive option for drivers who want an affordable alternative to driving a luxury sedan or truck.



As with new car leasing, you need to do some research to help secure the best deal. First and foremost is price research.

Your price research should be focused on the vehicle's key figures: the initial market value, and the estimated residual value. It's a little harder to determine these figures on used cars, because there are no factory-set sticker prices and the residual percentages are determined by subjective current retail value. For this reason, it's important to find several estimates and then determine a median value. You can find the information you need online at sites like cars.com and edmunds.com, and you can visit local dealerships.

Comparing the used car lease with a lease on a new car of the same make and model is another way to pin down a good estimate. This tactic provides an overview of the differences between new and used car leases. Similar to leasing a new car, a used car lease is naturally more attractive when the residual value depreciates the least. It's easier to find a leasing bargain with a high-end luxury vehicle that holds its value.

Next, you should verify the accumulated mileage and assess the overall condition of the vehicle. The maximum mileage on the used vehicle you choose should not have exceeded 12,000 miles a year. For example, if the car is three years old with 50,000 miles on the odometer, it's probably not your best choice for a used vehicle lease.

In addition to actual mileage, check for signs of excessive use, like worn seat fabric and damaged interior elements, worn pedal pads and a dirty engine, which can indicate poor maintenance or even an odometer roll-back. Even if the car is being marketed as certified, it's in your best interest to have it thoroughly inspected by a qualified mechanic you know and trust.

Gap coverage is a type of insurance offered on a new car lease that protects the driver against vehicle loss, damage or theft. This type of coverage is not usually offered on a used car lease. Automobile insurance policies will typically only cover what your car is worth at the time of loss, rather than what's owed on the lease. The difference can run into thousands of dollars.

For your own peace of mind, arrange your own gap coverage before entering into a used car lease. You can make these arrangements directly with the dealer, or through an automobile insurance company.

If you've been dreaming of driving a high end car, but can't manage the high monthly payments, a used car lease can be just what you need to cruise in high style.

Source : http://www.goarticles.com