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How to spot a good car lease deal

A great lease deal is not the lowest number on a banner. It is the lowest total cost for the car you actually want. Here is how to check.

Ask for these numbers in writing

  • Selling price (capitalized cost) of the exact car
  • Money factor and residual value
  • Every incentive as its own line
  • Total due at signing, and what it includes
  • Mileage allowance and the cost per extra mile

Compare the total, not the monthly

Add the amount due at signing to all the monthly payments. Two offers with the same monthly can differ a lot once the due at signing and fees are included.

Red flags

  • An advertised deal that needs a large amount at signing you did not expect
  • Add-ons already printed on the worksheet
  • A different trim or a car that is not in stock
  • A payment quoted without a written worksheet

How we help

We ask several franchised dealers for the same written numbers and go through every line with you. Green Light Auto Broker is an autobroker. All new cars arranged for sale are subject to price and availability from the selling franchised new car dealer.

Questions

What is a good money factor?

It depends on the brand, the month and your credit tier. The useful test is whether the dealer quotes the manufacturer's base rate for your tier, so ask for it in writing.

Is a zero down lease a good deal?

It can be. Zero down moves cost into the monthly payment, so compare the total cost over the lease rather than the monthly alone.

Where do I see current lease deals?

Our current deals are on the deals page. Programs change monthly, so ask for numbers on the exact car you want.

Related: Current lease deals, Lease vs finance, EV lease deals, Lease by brand. Text (714) 471-8775 or request a quote.

Brand and dealer names appear only to describe what a shopper may be comparing; they are trademarks of their owners. Green Light Auto Broker is an independent licensed California auto broker (CA DMV Autobroker License #72394), not a dealership.