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Why Leasing Is More Expensive Than It Looks

Why leasing is more expensive than it looks in the US—fees, mileage, and total cost so you see true lease cost.

AutoPremo Team
January 31, 2026
2 min read

Leasing in the U.S. often looks cheaper than it is because low monthly payments hide due-at-signing, fees, mileage overages, and wear-and-tear charges. Here's why leasing is more expensive than it looks.

TL;DR Leasing looks cheap because payment is low—but due at signing, acquisition fee, disposition fee, mileage overages, and wear-and-tear add up. Total cost over term can exceed what you expect. Use autopremo.com lease calculator and lease vs buy to see true cost. Use autopremo.com.

Due at Signing and Fees

Due at signing (first payment, security deposit, etc.) and acquisition fee are often overlooked. Disposition fee at end (if you don't buy) adds more. Add these to monthly payment × term for true cost. Use autopremo.com lease calculator. Get lease cost at autopremo.com.

Mileage Overages

Lease mileage (e.g., 10K–15K/year) seems enough until you go over. Overage fees (e.g., $0.15–$0.25/mile) add up fast. If you drive a lot, leasing gets expensive. Use autopremo.com to compare lease vs buy. See lease vs buy at autopremo.com.

Wear and Tear

Excess wear and tear at turn-in can trigger charges. Dings, scratches, tire wear beyond spec—all can cost you. Factor that in when comparing. Use autopremo.com lease vs buy calculator to compare total cost. Check at autopremo.com.

Bottom Line

Leasing is more expensive than it looks when you add due at signing, fees, mileage overages, and wear-and-tear. Use autopremo.com lease calculator and lease vs buy to see true cost so you don't overpay.

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