4 things to know before renting or leasing a car

One of the most popular queries on the internet today is to determine if renting a car is better than leasing it. Well, there’s no simple answer. The best choice varies from person to person, depending on how long one needs the car for, how quickly one needs it, and how much flexibility the individual desires. Here are a few key things to know before renting or leasing an automobile.

Costs involved
Individuals must incur several expenses when leasing a car, such as office documentation fees, interest, and taxes. Furthermore, the paperwork may include one-time costs like vehicle registration, a down payment, and a security deposit. Someone who leases a car must also consider other associated costs of daily usage, such as maintenance and repairs, gas, and auto insurance premiums. Lastly, when the lease ends, the driver might be subject to additional charges for wear and tear, exceeding the yearly mileage limit, and costs associated with auctioning the vehicle.

When one rents a car, the list of expenses might seem significantly shorter. These typically include rental payments, a small security deposit, gas, sales tax, and additional services or products the driver requests, such as e-tolls or satellite radio. Rental companies usually handle more considerable expenses, such as auto insurance, maintenance, and vehicle registration. The rental company might offer a decent deal to renters who take the car for more than a few days.

Requirements
Whether leasing or renting a car, individuals are subject to specific requirements. To lease a car, one will require the following:

A good credit score: The dealer checks if the driver has a history of making full and timely payments.
A current driver’s license: It helps verify the driver’s identity and determine if they are authorized to drive.
Auto insurance: It determines if the car is protected in the event of a mishap during the lease.
Proof of income: This document ensures the driver has a source of income to cover payments.

One must possess the following to rent a car:

A valid driver’s license
A credit or debit card to make a deposit at the time of the rental and cover estimated charges
A clean driving record

Contract term
The contract term of a rental differs from that of a lease. A lease might go on for two to four years. On the other hand, a rental may last a couple of days to several months, depending on how long one needs the vehicle. Moreover, individuals usually visit a car dealership for leasing and a rental company for renting.

Similarities between leasing and renting
There are several similarities between leasing and renting, which one should be aware of before choosing either option. Here are a few examples:

Both leasing and renting are short-term commitments compared to purchasing a new car.
Another individual, such as the lender, owns the car.
The driver cannot make alterations or personalize the vehicle.
There is usually a limit on the mileage.
One can drive a new model for less than it would cost to buy it.