Ben Chuanlong Du's Blog

It is never too late to learn.

Tips on Purchasing or Leasing a Car

Things on this page are fragmentary and immature notes/thoughts of the author. Please read with your own judgement!

Must-have Featuers

  • AWD
  • TPMS (tire pressure monitoring system)
  • surround camera
  • Lane keep warning
  • mirror blind spot
  • day night mirror
  • 6-seater configuration if 3-row

For EVs

  • able to switch between E-pedal and gas mode?
  • Is level I charing supported?

SUV

  • side steps

For Leasing

  1. Check for general good deals at Leasehackr .

  2. Ask what free services come with the lease. Generally speaking, there are pre-paid maintenance services come with a lease.

  3. Ask about disposal fee at the end of the lease.

  4. Ask what MF (APR / 2400) is for the lease.

Rivian Specific

Return a Leased Car

  1. schedule your pre-return vehicle inspection
  2. decide if you want to make repairs
  3. make a vehicle-return appointment with the dealer
  4. complete a federal odometer/lease termination statement at the dealer
  5. satisy any lease liability fees/charges

End-of-lease Checklist

  • vehicle inspection report
  • replace original equipment that many have been removed from the vehicle after lease inception
  • all sets of keys present
  • owner's manual in glove box
  • spare tire (if any) in vehicle
  • SD navigation card in place

Vehicle Return Checklist

  • remove toll/EZ tags
  • remove all personal items, e.g., auxilary cords, glasses, etc
  • license plates
  • delete information from the vehicle
  • cancel all electronic payments

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