Should I Lease or Buy a Car?
Should I Lease or Buy a Car?
I'm in my early 20's and I know NOTHING about cars and I don't really have anyone in my circle of friends, family, or acquaintances that I can really trust when it comes to maintaining and repairing a car. I've been raised to own your own house, your car, etc. But, I'm starting to question that owning a car , in particular, is the right thing for me.
I've always had used cars, because I can pay cash for them and be done, but it seems that after I buy the car, I'm constantly putting money in it to repair it; then I have so many different mechanics telling me different things; there seems to be no definitive answers, and everyone just seems to be just “trying their luck” with my cars. Since 2008, I have had 3 different cars —- two 1999 Jeep Cherokees and one 2001 Mercury Sable. Nothing but problems, and I've been going from mechanic to mechanic with no significant success. It makes me feel frustrated and very alone.
So, I've decided that next month, I'm going to buy a newer car, like no older than a 2008. But, I got to thinking — if I BUY another car, rather than lease or finance it, then once I bring that baby home, it's all on MY shoulders again to fix it if/when something goes wrong with it. I'm tired of going from mechanic to mechanic, and trying to decipher if they're cheating me, if they know what they're talking about, etc. etc. I'm just burnt out.
So, I was thinking of Leasing a car, so at least if it ever needs repairs/maintenance, I won't have to worry about a thing; I'll just take it in and let them deal with it. It makes me feel more secure. It's just like having a rental car, you know — it's like “okay, the engine light is on, this is THEIR problem”. Now, I know that I'll be shelling out lots of money for Leasing a car; I know the mileage limitations and the fact that I'll be paying hundreds of dollars each month just to turn the car back in at the end of the Lease term and nothing to show for it. But, at least I'll have peace of mind. I'm just tired of spending my weekends at the repair shops, only to leave and the problem still persists OR another one arises. I'M TIRED.
So, what do you suggest? Should I lease or buy a vehicle next month??
Remember, I'm a female in my early 20's, who doesn't know a thing about cars, and I don't have anyone in my corner who knows about cars.
Thank you.
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