What Is the Cheapest Month to Lease a Car? 7 Insider Tips (2025) 🚗


Video: Don't Get SCREWED on a Car Lease | 3 GOLDEN RULES to Negotiate a Car Lease.







Ever wondered why some months seem to magically offer jaw-dropping car lease deals while others leave you paying full price? Spoiler alert: it’s not just luck! At Car Leases™, we’ve cracked the code on the best times to lease a car—and trust us, timing can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars. From year-end blowouts to quarterly sales sprints, the calendar is packed with golden opportunities if you know where to look.

But here’s the kicker: December usually steals the show with the deepest discounts, thanks to dealerships racing to clear out old inventory before the new models arrive. Yet, don’t blink—because March, June, and September also bring their own lease deal magic. Plus, we’ll reveal how your credit score, negotiation skills, and even the type of car you want can tip the scales in your favor. Ready to become a lease deal ninja? Let’s dive in!

Key Takeaways

  • December is the cheapest month to lease a car due to year-end clearances and manufacturer incentives.
  • Quarter-end months (March, June, September) offer strong lease deals as dealerships push to meet sales quotas.
  • Holiday sales events like Black Friday and Memorial Day often feature special lease promotions.
  • Your credit score and negotiation skills are just as important as timing to secure the best money factor and terms.
  • Different vehicle types (sedans, SUVs, trucks, luxury cars) have unique lease deal cycles—knowing when to strike is key.
  • Avoid common pitfalls like excessive down payments, mileage overages, and hidden fees by reading the fine print carefully.

Ready to shop smart? Check out the latest lease deals on popular brands:

Unlock the secrets to leasing like a pro and drive away with a deal that feels like a steal!

Table of Contents

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts

  • End-of-Year Bonanza: December is often the cheapest month to lease due to dealerships clearing out the old model year inventory. 🎅
  • Quarterly Pushes: Look for deals at the end of each quarter (March, June, September) as dealerships try to meet sales quotas. 🎯
  • Holiday Sales Events: Major holidays like Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Black Friday can bring special lease offers. 🛍️
  • New Model Arrivals: When new models hit the showroom, lease deals on the outgoing models tend to get sweeter. 🍬
  • Credit Matters: A good credit score is crucial for securing the best lease rates. 💯 Check out our guide on Credit Score and Car Leasing for more info.
  • Negotiate Everything: Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price, mileage, and other lease terms. 🗣️
  • Zero Down Isn’t Always Best: While tempting, zero down leases can mean higher monthly payments. Consider the long-term cost. 🤔 Learn more about Best Lease Terms and Best zero down car lease deals at https://www.carleases.org/best-zero-down-car-lease-deals/ .

🕰️ The Lease Lifecycle: Understanding When Deals Bloom

Ever wondered why some months are just bursting with incredible car lease deals while others are… well, a bit of a desert? 🤔 It’s not random! The automotive industry operates on a predictable cycle, and understanding this cycle is your secret weapon to snagging the best possible lease.

Think of it like this: dealerships are under constant pressure to meet sales targets. These targets are often set on a monthly, quarterly, and yearly basis. When deadlines loom, and they’re still short of their goals, they’re much more likely to offer aggressive discounts and incentives to move metal. 🚗💨

But it’s not just about sales quotas. Factors like the arrival of new models, manufacturer incentives, and even the overall economic climate can play a significant role in lease pricing. We, at Car Leases™, have seen it all! We’ve witnessed firsthand how these factors converge to create the perfect storm of savings for savvy lessees.

🗓️ Decoding the Calendar: The Absolute Best Months to Lease a Car


Video: How To Lease A Car In 2025 (Step By Step).








Alright, let’s get down to brass tacks. When are the absolute best times to lease a car and maximize your savings? Here’s the inside scoop:

1. Why December Reigns Supreme: Year-End Clearances 🎄

December is often considered the holy grail of car leasing. Why? Because dealerships are desperate to clear out their inventory of the current model year to make room for the new models arriving in January. This means they’re willing to offer deep discounts and incentives to move those cars off the lot.

  • Manufacturer Incentives: Automakers often offer special year-end bonuses and incentives to boost sales.
  • Dealer Desperation: Dealerships are eager to meet their annual sales quotas and avoid carrying over old inventory.
  • Tax Benefits: Some businesses may be looking to take advantage of year-end tax deductions by leasing a vehicle.

“We’re analyzing hundreds of lease deals to find the cheapest cars to lease,” says CarsDirect. Source

2. Quarterly Quests: March, June, September Savings 💰

Similar to December, the end of each quarter (March, June, and September) can also be a great time to lease a car. Dealerships face quarterly sales targets, and they’re often willing to offer discounts to reach those goals.

  • Sales Pressure: Dealerships are under pressure to meet quarterly sales quotas.
  • Incentive Programs: Manufacturers may offer special incentives to boost sales during these periods.
  • Increased Inventory: Dealerships may have a larger inventory of vehicles at the end of each quarter.

3. Holiday Hype: Black Friday, Memorial Day, and More! 🎉

Major holidays like Black Friday, Memorial Day, and Labor Day are prime times for special lease offers. Dealerships often run holiday-themed promotions to attract customers and boost sales.

  • Holiday Promotions: Dealerships offer special discounts and incentives during major holidays.
  • Increased Traffic: Holidays often bring more customers to dealerships.
  • Competitive Pricing: Dealerships compete with each other to offer the best deals during these periods.

4. Model Year Magic: When New Models Arrive, Old Ones Go Cheap 🔄

As new car models roll onto the scene, dealerships are keen to clear out the previous year’s versions. This is where you can swoop in and snag a fantastic lease deal on a perfectly good car.

  • Inventory Clearance: Dealerships need to make room for the new models.
  • Depreciation: The value of the outgoing model year decreases, leading to lower lease payments.
  • Incentives: Manufacturers offer incentives to help dealerships move the older models.

📊 Beyond the Calendar: Other Factors Driving Down Lease Costs


Video: The Truth About Low Money Factors in Lease Deals: Look Beyond the Numbers!








While timing is crucial, it’s not the only factor that determines the cost of your lease. Several other elements can influence the price, and understanding them can help you negotiate an even better deal.

1. Dealer Incentives & Manufacturer Rebates: The Hidden Savings 🎁

Keep an eye out for dealer incentives and manufacturer rebates. These are essentially discounts offered by the automaker or dealership to encourage sales. They can significantly reduce the cost of your lease.

  • Cash Rebates: Direct discounts on the price of the vehicle.
  • Low-Interest Financing: Reduced interest rates on the lease.
  • Bonus Cash: Additional incentives for specific models or trim levels.

“The cheapest cars to lease may include loyalty discounts and incentives for switching brands,” according to CarsDirect. Source

2. Inventory Overload: When Dealers Are Desperate to Move Metal 📦

Sometimes, dealerships find themselves with an overstock of certain models. This can happen for various reasons, such as lower-than-expected demand or a change in consumer preferences. When this occurs, they’re often willing to offer deep discounts to clear out the excess inventory.

  • High Supply: An oversupply of a particular model.
  • Reduced Demand: Lower-than-expected consumer interest.
  • Storage Costs: Dealerships want to avoid the cost of storing excess inventory.

3. Lease Returns & Used Car Market Dynamics: A Secret Source? 🤫

The used car market can also impact lease deals. When used car values are high, dealerships may be more willing to offer lower lease payments, as they anticipate a higher return when the lease ends and the car is sold.

  • High Used Car Values: Increased demand for used vehicles.
  • Strong Resale Market: Dealerships expect to sell the leased vehicle for a good price at the end of the lease term.
  • Lower Depreciation: Higher used car values can lead to lower depreciation, which reduces lease payments.

4. Your Credit Score: The Ultimate Deal Maker (or Breaker) 💳

Your credit score is a major factor in determining your lease rate. A higher credit score typically translates to a lower interest rate (also known as the money factor in leasing), which can save you a significant amount of money over the life of the lease.

  • Credit Tiers: Dealerships use credit tiers to determine interest rates.
  • Money Factor: The interest rate used in leasing.
  • Creditworthiness: A higher credit score demonstrates your ability to repay debt.

5. Negotiation Know-How: Mastering the Art of the Deal 🤝

Don’t be afraid to negotiate! The sticker price is rarely the final price. Research the market value of the car you want, and be prepared to walk away if the dealer isn’t willing to meet your terms.

  • Research: Know the market value of the car you want.
  • Be Prepared to Walk Away: Don’t be afraid to leave if the dealer isn’t offering a good deal.
  • Negotiate Everything: Negotiate the price, mileage, and other lease terms.

🚗 Which Cars Get the Best Lease Deals, and When?


Video: Car Leases Are BACK! How To Get The BEST LEASE Deal (2024).








Not all cars are created equal when it comes to lease deals. Some models are consistently offered with attractive lease terms, while others are rarely discounted. Here’s a breakdown of which types of cars tend to have the best lease deals, and when you’re most likely to find them:

1. Sedans & Hatchbacks: Often the First to See Discounts 📉

Sedans and hatchbacks have been losing popularity to SUVs and crossovers in recent years. As a result, dealerships often offer attractive lease deals on these models to move them off the lot.

  • Declining Popularity: Sedans and hatchbacks are less popular than SUVs and crossovers.
  • Inventory Clearance: Dealerships want to reduce their inventory of these models.
  • Competitive Pricing: Manufacturers offer incentives to make these cars more attractive to lessees.

2. SUVs & Crossovers: Seasonal Surges and Popularity Plays 📈

SUVs and crossovers are incredibly popular, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find good lease deals on them. Keep an eye out for special promotions and incentives, especially during the end of the year or when new models are released.

  • High Demand: SUVs and crossovers are in high demand.
  • Limited Discounts: Lease deals may not be as aggressive as on less popular models.
  • Seasonal Promotions: Look for special offers during the end of the year or when new models are released.

3. Trucks: End-of-Year Workhorse Deals 🚚

Trucks are often leased by businesses and individuals who need them for work. Dealerships may offer special lease deals on trucks at the end of the year to boost sales and clear out inventory.

  • Commercial Use: Trucks are often leased for business purposes.
  • Year-End Sales: Dealerships offer special deals at the end of the year.
  • Incentives: Manufacturers may offer incentives to encourage truck leases.

4. Luxury Vehicles: When Prestige Meets Price Cuts ✨

Luxury vehicles can be surprisingly affordable to lease, especially when dealerships are trying to meet sales targets or clear out old inventory. Look for deals on luxury cars at the end of the year or when new models are released.

  • High Depreciation: Luxury cars tend to depreciate quickly, which can lead to lower lease payments.
  • Incentives: Manufacturers offer incentives to make luxury cars more attractive to lessees.
  • Year-End Sales: Dealerships offer special deals at the end of the year.

❌ Lease Deal Pitfalls: What to Avoid on Your Quest for Savings


Video: If a Car Dealer DOES THIS, LEAVE IMMEDIATELY | 3 CAR LEASE Red Flags.







While the allure of a cheap lease is strong, it’s crucial to be aware of potential pitfalls that can end up costing you more in the long run. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

1. The Down Payment Dilemma: Less is Often More 📉

While a large down payment can lower your monthly payments, it’s generally not recommended when leasing. If the car is stolen or totaled, you may not get that down payment back.

  • Risk of Loss: You may not get your down payment back if the car is stolen or totaled.
  • Higher Monthly Payments: A smaller down payment will result in higher monthly payments.
  • Consider Gap Insurance: Gap insurance can protect you if the car is totaled and you owe more than its value.

2. Mileage Miscalculations: Don’t Get Dinged! 🛣️

Be realistic about your driving habits and choose a mileage allowance that accurately reflects your needs. Exceeding your mileage allowance can result in hefty per-mile charges at the end of the lease.

  • Mileage Allowance: The number of miles you’re allowed to drive per year.
  • Per-Mile Charges: The cost for each mile you drive over the allowance.
  • Track Your Mileage: Monitor your mileage to avoid exceeding the allowance.

3. Hidden Fees & Fine Print: Read Everything! 🕵️‍♀️

Always read the lease agreement carefully and be aware of any hidden fees or charges. These can include acquisition fees, disposition fees, and early termination fees.

  • Acquisition Fee: A fee charged by the leasing company to initiate the lease.
  • Disposition Fee: A fee charged at the end of the lease to cover the cost of preparing the car for sale.
  • Early Termination Fee: A fee charged if you end the lease early.

📝 Preparing for Your Perfect Lease: A Checklist for Success


Video: How to Negotiate The LOWEST Car Lease Payment (Step by Step).








Ready to dive in and find that dream lease deal? Here’s a checklist to help you prepare and ensure a smooth and successful leasing experience:

1. Know Your Numbers: Residual Value & Money Factor Explained 🔢

Understanding the key numbers in a lease agreement is crucial. The residual value is the estimated value of the car at the end of the lease, while the money factor is the interest rate used to calculate your monthly payments.

  • Residual Value: The estimated value of the car at the end of the lease.
  • Money Factor: The interest rate used in leasing.
  • Lower Money Factor: Aim for a lower money factor to reduce your monthly payments.

2. Research, Research, Research: Tools and Resources 💻

Use online resources like Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book, and TrueCar to research lease deals and compare prices. These tools can help you get a sense of the market value of the car you want and identify potential incentives and rebates.

3. Test Drive & Compare: Don’t Settle! 🚘

Before committing to a lease, be sure to test drive the car and compare it to other models in its class. This will help you make an informed decision and ensure that you’re getting the right car for your needs.

  • Test Drive: Experience the car firsthand.
  • Compare Models: Evaluate different cars in the same class.
  • Consider Your Needs: Choose a car that meets your lifestyle and driving habits.

💡 Pro Tips from the Car Leases™ Team


Video: Ex-Car Salesman Explains – How to Turn CAR LEASE EQUITY Into Cash! (Everything Explained).








  • Be Flexible: Be open to different makes and models. Sometimes, the best deals are on cars you hadn’t even considered.
  • 👉 Shop Around: Get quotes from multiple dealerships to compare prices and negotiate the best deal.
  • Consider a Short-Term Lease: If you’re not sure how long you’ll need the car, a short-term lease may be a good option.
  • Negotiate the Money Factor: The money factor is negotiable, so don’t be afraid to ask for a lower rate.
  • Read the Fine Print: Always read the lease agreement carefully before signing.

✅ Conclusion: Timing is Everything, But So Is Strategy!

a red car sitting on top of a wooden desk

So, what’s the cheapest month to lease a car? If you’ve been hanging on the edge of your seat, here’s the scoop: December usually takes the crown, thanks to year-end clearances and manufacturer incentives. But don’t discount the power of the quarterly finish lines in March, June, and September, or the holiday sales blitzes like Black Friday and Memorial Day. These windows are golden opportunities to score a deal that makes your wallet smile. 😄

However, timing alone won’t guarantee you the best lease. You need to combine it with savvy negotiation, a solid credit score, and a keen eye for dealer incentives. Remember, leasing isn’t just about the monthly payment — it’s about the total cost, including down payments, mileage limits, and fees. We’ve seen folks get burned by ignoring the fine print or overestimating their mileage needs. Don’t be that person!

Whether you’re eyeing a sleek sedan, a rugged truck, or a luxurious SUV, knowing when and how to lease can save you hundreds or even thousands over the lease term. And if you’re curious about flexible alternatives, don’t forget to check out options like Flexcar — the month-to-month car lease that lets you swap rides and cancel anytime. Freedom on four wheels? Yes, please!

At Car Leases™, we recommend:

  • Plan your lease around year-end or quarterly sales pushes.
  • Maintain a strong credit score to unlock the best money factors.
  • Research incentives and don’t shy away from negotiation.
  • Be realistic about mileage and lease terms to avoid surprise fees.

With these tools in your arsenal, you’re ready to conquer the leasing game like a pro. Happy hunting! 🚗💨

👉 Shop Popular Brands and Models:

❓ FAQ: Your Burning Lease Questions Answered

A masked person attempts to break into a car.

What are the best car lease deals currently available?

The best lease deals vary by region, time of year, and credit score, but brands like Hyundai, Kia, Subaru, and Buick frequently offer some of the most affordable leases. End-of-year and quarterly sales events often feature the deepest discounts. For the most current deals, check manufacturer websites and trusted aggregators like Edmunds or TrueCar. Also, consider Flexcar if you want a flexible, no-commitment option.

Read more about “How Much Is the Monthly Payment for a Tesla Y? 10 Insider Tips (2025) ⚡”

How can I negotiate the best price for a car lease?

Negotiation is key! Start by researching the MSRP, invoice price, and residual value of the vehicle. Negotiate the capitalized cost (the price the lease is based on), not just the monthly payment. Ask for all available incentives and rebates. Don’t forget to negotiate the money factor (lease interest rate). Being informed and ready to walk away gives you leverage. Check out our Car Lease Basics for detailed negotiation tips.

Read more about “🚗 9 Best Mazda Lease Deals to Grab in 2025”

What factors affect the cost of a car lease?

Several factors influence lease costs:

  • Residual Value: Higher residual values mean lower monthly payments.
  • Money Factor: The interest rate applied to the lease.
  • Lease Term: Longer leases may have lower monthly payments but can cost more overall.
  • Mileage Allowance: Higher mileage limits increase payments.
  • Down Payment: More upfront cash lowers monthly payments but increases risk.
  • Credit Score: Better credit unlocks better money factors and incentives.

Read more about “🚙 7 Best Jeep Lease Deals to Grab in 2025 (Insider Tips!)”

Are there any discounts or incentives for leasing a car at the end of the model year?

Absolutely! When new models arrive, dealerships want to clear out the previous year’s inventory, leading to significant discounts, manufacturer rebates, and dealer incentives. These typically occur in late summer through December. Keep an eye on holiday sales events and manufacturer websites for special lease cash offers.

Read more about “12 Cheapest Lease Deals $0 Down You Can Snag in 2025 🚗”

How does my credit score impact my lease deal?

Your credit score directly affects the money factor — the lease’s interest rate. A higher score (usually above 700) qualifies you for the best rates and incentives. Lower scores can mean higher monthly payments or even lease denial. If your credit isn’t perfect, consider improving it before leasing or explore Auto Financing Options that fit your situation.

Read more about “🚗 15 Must-Know Pros & Cons of Leasing vs Buying a Car (2025)”

Can I lease an electric vehicle (EV) and are there special deals?

Yes! Leasing EVs is increasingly popular, with many manufacturers offering attractive lease deals and incentives, including federal and state tax credits. Leasing can be a smart way to drive an EV without committing to long-term ownership. Check out our Electric Vehicle Leases section for the latest offers and tips.

Read more about “🚗 Top 15 $0 Down Lease Specials in Orlando (2025) You Can’t Miss!”

Ready to start your lease journey armed with timing, tactics, and insider knowledge? Remember, the best deal is the one that fits your lifestyle and budget — and now you know exactly when and how to find it. Happy leasing! 🚘✨

Jacob
Jacob

Jacob is the Editor-in-Chief of the site Car Leases™, where he leads a team focused on clear, bias-free guidance that helps drivers negotiate smarter leases and avoid costly surprises. His editorial playbook is simple: explain money factors and residuals in plain English, show the math, and keep every article aligned with up-to-date incentives, tax rules, and real-world pricing. Under Jacob’s direction, Car Leases™ covers the full lifecycle of leasing—from negotiation and financing to lease transfers, EV leases, mileage limits, and end-of-term strategies—so readers can make confident decisions fast.

He also steers the site’s transparency standards: clear affiliate disclosures, reader-first recommendations, and an emphasis on sustainability (the site runs on carbon-neutral hosting via AccelerHosting). Those practices reflect Car Leases™’s mission to provide accurate, current information freely to readers.
Car Leases™

When he’s not untangling lease jargon, Jacob is testing calculators, pressure-testing “too good to be true” zero-down offers, and editing deep dives on high-interest topics like Tesla and other EV leases. His goal is constant: turn complicated lease terms into decisions you can trust.

Articles: 256

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