Ocean County Consumer Affairs officials suggest residents looking for a new car or truck get all of their questions answered before signing on the line and driving away with that newly leased vehicle.

“Leasing a vehicle certainly has its benefits, but it may not be right for everyone,” said Ocean County Freeholder Joseph H. Vicari, Chairman of the Ocean County Department of Consumer Affairs.

The Consumer Affairs department has developed a list of questions that can help the consumer determine whether leasing is best for them.

“Before entering into a lease contract, it’s important to ask questions,” Vicari said.

For example:
◦Is there a down payment required and what is the monthly rate?
◦What is the length of the lease? How many payments must be made?
◦What is the exact date when the vehicle must be turned in?
◦Will a dealership accept a trade-in vehicle as a down payment?
◦How many annual miles are included with the lease and what is the excess mileage charge?
◦Is there a charge for excess wear and tear?
◦How much is the buyout option after the lease is over?
◦Does your insurance coverage include Gap insurance in case the car is stolen? Typically, auto policies pay only the market value at the time of loss.
◦Is there a maintenance agreement? Are oil changes included in the deal?
◦What exactly is theft protection? What does it include and how will it impact insurance rates?
•Does the financing include a vehicle return fee at the end of the lease? Will the dealer charge an end-of-lease deposition fee?

Vicari said a customer should never feel pressured to sign a lease.

“Under the Consumer Protection Act you are entitled to a 24-hour cooling off period giving you time to review the contract,” Vicari said. “Feel free to take the contract home and review the details when you are not under the pressure of a salesperson.”

Consumer officials also recommend writing down questions that may arise during the review and get the answers before signing the contract.

“Get everything in writing,” said Stephen Scaturro, Director of the Ocean County Department of Consumer Affairs. “If it’s not in a printed contract it’s not binding.”

For additional information on consumer laws or other consumer inquiries contact the Ocean County Department of Consumer Affairs at 732-929-2105 or visit the department’s website at www.co.ocean.nj.us.

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