Education
Want to be a smart customer? Before you begin the car-buying process, we highly recommend spending some time with "Understanding Vehicle Financing." This pamphlet from NADA, the National Automobile Dealers Association, helps you evaluate your financial situation before financing or leasing a new or pre-owned vehicle.
As you consider your purchase, here are some terms you might encounter when discussing finance packages with your Sewell business manager:
Balloon Financing - This financing option combines the benefits of leasing and owning. You pay only the anticipated depreciation of the vehicle, plus any finance charges and taxes. A couple of different options are available, depending on the mileage you expect to drive. Your Sewell business manager will help you arrange financing for a 24-, 36- or 48-month term. At the end of the term, you can either make a final balloon payment to buy the car outright or turn in the vehicle to the dealership.
Leasing - A lease can be a good way to have a more affordable payment than when buying a car. Your lease payment covers only the vehicle depreciated value (plus the lessor's monthly finance charges), not the entire purchase value. Most vehicles are leased for 24 to 48 months, then returned to the lease company. We don't recommend leasing a vehicle for longer than its general warranty. For people who drive an average number of miles and take good care of their vehicles, leasing is a good financing alternative. Note: If the vehicle incurs excessive wear and tear or mileage during the lease period, a fee will be assessed when the vehicle is turned in.
Traditional Financing - Traditional financing is an installment transaction over a period of time. You agree to pay the amount financed, plus an agreed-upon finance charge. Traditional financing is probably right for you if you like the idea of owning a vehicle or you plan to keep the car for more than a few years. Sewell works with many different lenders to offer you competitive rates.