Leasing FAQs: Most Common Questions

Leasing is a way to drive a new vehicle for a set period, usually two to four years, without purchasing it outright. Instead of paying for the full purchase price, you pay for the portion of the vehicle's value you use during the lease term, plus interest and fees.

At the end of the lease, you return the vehicle, purchase it, or move into a new lease on a different model. This makes leasing a flexible option for drivers who like changing vehicles more often or want a lower monthly payment while driving a new vehicle.

When you lease a vehicle, the dealership and the manufacturer's financial arm determine the vehicle's expected value at the end of the lease term. Your monthly payment is based on the difference between the vehicle's starting price and that expected end value, spread out over the length of the lease.

Leases also include a mileage allowance and specific terms around condition. Our finance team walks through these details with every customer so there are no surprises when the lease ends. This applies whether you are leasing a Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, or Cadillac model.

Leasing and financing both get you behind the wheel, but they work differently. Financing means you are working toward ownership. You pay off the full price of the vehicle over time, and once the loan is paid, the vehicle is yours to keep or sell.

Leasing typically means a lower monthly payment and the chance to drive a newer vehicle more often, since you are only paying for the vehicle's depreciation during the lease term. It usually comes with mileage limits and wear and tear guidelines that financing does not.

If you drive a predictable number of miles each year and like having a new vehicle every few years, or want a lower monthly payment, leasing may be a good fit. If you plan to keep your vehicle longer than four years or drive high mileage, financing may make more sense. Our sales and finance teams can walk through both options so you can make the choice that fits your budget and driving habits.

A lease payment generally includes the vehicle's depreciation, interest charges, and applicable taxes and fees. Most leases also include the manufacturer's new vehicle warranty for the length of the lease, which can help keep maintenance costs predictable.

Leases come with an annual mileage allowance, commonly ranging from 10,000 to 15,000 miles per year depending on the agreement. Driving beyond that allowance can result in additional charges at the end of the lease, so it is worth discussing expected mileage with our team before you sign. Normal wear and tear is expected, but excessive damage may also result in additional charges.

When your lease term ends, you have a few straightforward options. You can return the vehicle and walk away, purchase the vehicle at its predetermined price, or lease or finance a new Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, or Cadillac model.

Many of our lease customers choose to move into a new lease so they can continue enjoying the latest new model features and technology. Our team can walk you through your end-of-lease options, so the transition is simple.

Cable Dahmer of Topeka brings Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, and Cadillac together under one roof, giving Topeka, Lawrence, and Manhattan area shoppers a full range of leasing options in one convenient location. Our finance department can explain leasing terms clearly, answer your questions, and help you find a lease that fits your budget.

If you are ready to see what is available, shop our current lease offers to find a Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, or Cadillac lease deal that works for you.