Leasing a car offers flexibility, and as leases end, many consider buying their vehicles. A common question arises during this transition: “Are Car Lease Maintenance Programs Worth It?”. Dealers often pitch these plans, especially as you transition from leasing to owning. Let’s analyze if these programs offer genuine value or if your money is better spent elsewhere.
Dealers presented the following maintenance options:
- Scheduled Maintenance (+2 years, 75K miles): $2000
- Full Maintenance (+1 year, 50k miles): $3100
- Full Maintenance (+2 years, 75k miles): $4550
- Full Maintenance (+3 years, 100k miles): $6000
- Full Maintenance (+4 years, 125k miles): $7100
For a low-mileage driver, like the one in our example with only 12,000 miles on a 2018 car, these long-term, mileage-based plans might not be the most economical choice. Car maintenance is often time-based as much as mileage-based. Essential services like oil changes are typically annual, regardless of how few miles you drive. Cabin air filters also degrade over time and environmental exposure.
Instead of locking into a potentially overpriced maintenance program, consider a pay-as-you-go approach. An annual oil change, a cabin air filter every few years, intake filters, and spark plugs at longer intervals might be significantly cheaper when done at an independent mechanic or even DIY. For instance, over three years, basic maintenance could cost around $1200 at an independent shop, a considerable saving compared to dealer plans, especially if you handle simple tasks like air filter replacements yourself.
In conclusion, while dealer maintenance programs offer convenience, they may not be financially worthwhile, particularly for low-mileage drivers. Exploring time-based maintenance at independent shops or performing basic maintenance yourself can be a more cost-effective strategy after a lease buyout.
