How Is the Car Lease Payment Calculated?
Car leasing is a popular financing method that allows you to use a vehicle by paying a monthly payment without purchasing it immediately. This calculator simulates the monthly payment, total cost, and applicable tax deductibility.
Components of a Car Lease
- Down payment: the initial payment, expressed as a percentage of the vehicle price. Typically 5-30%. A higher down payment reduces the monthly payment but requires more upfront cash.
- Monthly payment: the periodic installment calculated based on the financed amount, duration, and interest rate.
- Residual value (buyout): the amount to pay at end of lease to become the owner. Usually 1-20% of the original price.
- APR: the Annual Percentage Rate that determines the interest cost on the financed capital.
The Calculation Formula
The monthly payment is calculated using the financial formula of a deferred annuity with residual value (balloon payment). The financed amount (price minus down payment) is distributed over the monthly payments accounting for interest and the residual value to be paid at maturity.
APR vs Effective Annual Rate
The APR represents the nominal interest rate applied to the lease. The effective annual rate includes compound interest effects and gives a more complete picture of the true cost. Always compare the effective rate when evaluating different lease offers.