Hidden Costs in Car Leases Most People Miss

Car leases in the U.S. have hidden costs most people miss: acquisition fee, disposition fee, mileage overages, excess wear and tear, and sometimes gap or other products. Here's what's hidden and how to see true cost.

TL;DR Hidden lease costs: (1) acquisition fee; (2) disposition fee (if you don't buy); (3) mileage overages; (4) excess wear and tear; (5) gap or other add-ons. Add these to payment × term for true cost. Use autopremo.com lease calculator and lease vs buy. Use autopremo.com.

Acquisition and Disposition Fees

Acquisition fee (often $500–$1,000) is due at signing or rolled in. Disposition fee (if you return the car) is due at end. Both add to true cost. Use autopremo.com lease calculator to model lease cost. Get lease at autopremo.com.

Mileage Overages

Going over the lease mileage (e.g., 12K/year) triggers per-mile fees (e.g., $0.15–$0.25/mile). A few thousand extra miles can add hundreds or more. Use autopremo.com to compare lease vs buy if you drive a lot. See lease vs buy at autopremo.com.

Excess Wear and Tear

Dings, scratches, tire wear beyond lease specs can be charged at turn-in. Read the lease contract and factor in possible charges. Use autopremo.com lease vs buy calculator to compare total cost. Check at autopremo.com.

Bottom Line

Hidden lease costs: acquisition, disposition, mileage overages, wear and tear. Add them to see true cost. Use autopremo.com for lease and lease vs buy so you don't miss hidden costs.