---
id: faq-0105
title: "What does it mean to lease a car instead of buy?"
category: faq
subtopic: leasing
page_type: faq
source_url: "https://www.castlechevycars.com"
tags: ["leasing", "faq", "basics"]
questions:
  - "What's the difference between leasing and buying?"
  - "Should I lease or buy a car?"
  - "How does car leasing work?"
related: [lease-mileage, lease-wear-tear, lease-end]
dealer: Castle Chevrolet of Villa Park
---

Leasing is like a long-term car rental-you pay monthly to drive a new vehicle for a set period (typically 2-3 years), then return it. You never own it. Buying means you own the car outright or finance it until it's paid off, then keep it as long as you want.

Leasing is great if you love driving new cars with the latest tech, prefer predictable monthly costs, and don't want to worry about major repairs (they're covered under warranty). Buying works best if you plan to keep a car long-term, drive high mileage, or want to customize it.

Castle Chevrolet of Villa Park's finance team can walk you through both options and help you find what fits your lifestyle. Call **(630) 279-5200** to discuss your needs, or browse our current inventory online to see what excites you.