Tesla Model Y: Should You Lease or Finance?

Hey everyone, DennisCW here! Today, we're diving into a hot topic for anyone considering a Tesla Model Y: should you lease or finance? I've crunched the numbers and broken down the pros and cons of each option to help you decide which path is the best for your lifestyle and financial goals. Whether you're someone who keeps their car until the wheels fall off or loves upgrading to the latest tech every few years, this analysis is for you. Let's get into it!

Understanding Your Ownership Style

Before we look at the numbers, it's important to ask yourself: what kind of car owner are you?

• Long-Term Owner: Do you plan to keep your Tesla for 5, 10, or even 15 years—essentially until the warranty runs out or beyond? If so, financing or paying cash might be your best bet.
• Tech Enthusiast: Are you someone who likes to stay on the cutting edge of technology, upgrading your car every few years just like you do with your iPhone or Android? With Tesla's rapid advancements—think Hardware 3, 4, and now AI 5 on the horizon—leasing could be the smarter move to avoid being stuck with outdated tech, especially as Full Self-Driving (FSD) capabilities evolve.

The potential for FSD to reach its full unsupervised capacity on newer hardware like AI 5 means that if you're leasing, you can easily switch to a newer model in a few years without the hassle of reselling. So, let's break down the financials for the Tesla Model Y Long Range All-Wheel Drive (AWD), arguably the best deal right now, to see how leasing and financing stack up.

Leasing the Tesla Model Y: The Numbers

Here's the current lease offer for the Model Y Long Range AWD:

• Monthly Payment: $499
• Term: 36 months
• Mileage Limit: 10,000 miles per year
• Total Cost Over 3 Years: Approximately $21,000 (before state taxes and fees)
• Residual Value (Buyout Option at End of Lease): $33,000

Pros of Leasing

• Fixed Loss: With leasing, your financial commitment is set. You're paying $21,000 (plus taxes and fees) over three years, and that's it. If the car's value depreciates more than expected or you get into an accident (knock on wood), it's not your problem. You return the car to Tesla, and they handle the resale.
• Flexibility: Leasing is ideal if you want to upgrade to a new model every few years, especially with Tesla's fast-evolving tech like FSD.

Cons of Leasing

• Mileage Restrictions: You're limited to 10,000 miles per year, which might not work for everyone.
• No Ownership Equity: At the end of the lease, you don’t own the car unless you buy it out at the residual value, which might not be a great deal depending on market conditions.

Note: State taxes and fees vary widely, so make sure to factor those into your calculations for a more accurate cost.

Financing the Tesla Model Y: The Numbers

Now, let’s look at the financing option for the same Model Y Long Range AWD at Tesla's current promotional rate:

• Monthly Payment: $574
• Interest Rate: 1.99%
• Total Cost Over 3 Years: Approximately $24,000–$25,000 (before taxes and fees)
• Remaining Balance After 3 Years: Around $22,000

Pros of Financing

• Ownership: After paying off the loan (or over the long term), you own the car outright. If you plan to keep it for 5–10 years, this is the most cost-effective option.
• No Mileage Limits: Unlike leasing, you can drive as much as you want without worrying about penalties.
• Low Interest Rate: At 1.99%, financing is currently very attractive compared to typical auto loan rates.

Cons of Financing

• Depreciation Risk: If you plan to sell the car after a few years, you’ll need to consider whether the Model Y will retain enough value to cover the remaining balance. In three years, will it be worth at least $22,000? That’s the gamble.
• Higher Short-Term Cost: Over the initial three years, financing costs more than leasing ($24K–$25K vs. $21K).

Which Option Is Right for You?

Here’s a quick summary to help you decide:

• Choose Financing If: You’re in it for the long haul. If you plan to keep your Model Y for many years, financing at a low interest rate (or paying cash) is the way to go. You’ll avoid mileage restrictions and won’t have to worry about leasing fees or returning the car.
• Choose Leasing If: You love staying current with the latest tech and want the flexibility to upgrade every three years. Leasing also protects you from potential depreciation risks since Tesla handles the resale.

Future Predictions for Tesla Leasing Deals

I predict that leasing offers for the Model Y will get even better in the near future. Just look at the favorable lease payments currently available for the Model 3. With an increasing number of Model Y Long Range AWD units in stock just a month or two after release, I wouldn’t be surprised to see lease payments drop to around $349–$399 per month by Q3 or Q4. Essentially, whatever great deals you see on the Model 3 now, expect similar offers to roll out for the Model Y soon. Keep an eye out!

Bonus Tip: Protect Your Tesla with 3W Liner Floor Mats

One quick note before we wrap up: if you’re buying a new Tesla, it doesn’t come with all-weather floor mats. After testing various options like 3D Maxpider, Tesmanian, and several Amazon brands, my favorite by far is the set from 3W Liners. I’ve got them in my Model X, Model 3, Model Y, and even my Cybertruck. They offer fantastic protection and fit perfectly.

Good news! You can save 25% on a set (bringing the price under $100) by using our promo code in the description below. Not only will you get a great deal, but you’ll also support the channel. Check out 3W Liner floor mats via the link below and let me know what you think!

Let’s Hear From You!

So, what’s your plan? Are you leaning toward leasing or financing your Tesla Model Y? Do you think the leasing deals will improve as I’ve predicted? Drop your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you. And if you found this breakdown helpful, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit that notification bell for more Tesla tips and updates.

Until next time, this is DennisCW signing off. Drive safe and stay electric!

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Disclaimer: The costs and offers mentioned are based on current Tesla promotions and may vary by region or change over time. Always do your own math and consult with a financial advisor before making a decision.