Need advice! 2019 Tacoma - keep it or return it....

There is no better feeling than to give.

 

OP I think this is a pretty simple math problem that doesn’t require anyone’s advice. When the lease is up, you compare the prices of similar vehicles to the buyout price. That is if you want a similar vehicle. If not then obviously this is easy and you return it after the lease.

If the price of other used vehicles is significantly less even if you take out the cost of your upgrades, then I would go in that direction.

I’m not sure why you’re even asking the question now given you could feel any number of ways when the lease is up, your circumstances leading to vehicle choice may have changed, and vehicle prices will change. It’s like asking me now to decide where I want to retire.

 

That's awesome man, we are in BS6, paid $163k off in cars and student loans. Still working on the house.

 

Yes, it is, and it won't matter squat if you turn it in, waxed or not, 13K or 30K miles. You need something meaningful in your life lol. A vehicle is an inanimate object. Use the 10/10 rule... if it looks good from 10 feet or 10 mph then its good. Right now, any spare time that I have I spend maintaining trails at a local park where I ride. It helps the community, it helps me riding the bike, it helps old folks who go out hiking. I maintain about eight miles of trails. Don't get me wrong... I take care of my truck. Wax it a few times a year with Turtle Wax, wash it every 3-4 weeks, make sure the insides are clean and touch up chips. When I was a kid, I spent all of my spare time working on my truck. Eventually I learned the 10/10 rule and never looked back lol.

 

It’s a great feeling to be debt free. Never going back to being a slave to the lender. Those gazelles can run pretty fast if they want too.

 

Currently the used market is up, my guess your truck value will be as well. Start looking for the replacement now, see if there is something you would rather drive. Me, I’d keep my taco, and drive it till it’s too expensive to maintain, to small or big for your family. Tacoma’s hold their value.

 

It seems that the most practical approach may only be determined by knowing your numbers.

What are the financial "as is" vs "to be" at the point you must make the decision.

What has been your total spend at that point, vs. what will be your additional spend.

If it is in as good condition as you say, the maintenance can be factored out.

 

Question, if you intended to keep the vehicle after the lease term, why did you decide to lease? People usually like to lease because they don't wash, maintain the car and want a new car every few years so they lease. I've never heard of anyone weekly waxing a lease vehicle....just my opinion...3 years and still owing 30k, only to finance it at used car rates is crazy talk for me.

 

I do not think we are on the same page - check my responses above.
First of all - NO truck out there will be in a condition of mine in 3 years (if I decide to keep it). Looking at other used cars at similar price range is not the same as buying the car that you were the first owner to.
If I keep it - I will be careful with how I drive and mileage so the car will have close to maybe 13k miles. On the other hand, if car goes back to the dealer - I will max out my allowable mileage and give up spending any money for cleaning, accessorizing etc. Truck become a tool only...

 

I have never had truck before and wanted to try it..... your honest opinion is greatly appreciated!

 

Thanks for another perspective and constructive approach! Some good points you made...

 

What kind of price can you put on your daughter's memories of growing up with dad and having picnics and trail runs with her dad?

And you never know, if you hang onto it long enough, she might be enough of a daddy's girl she'll want it as her first vehicle and you know it will last that long and then some.

 

Do never lease.

 

Thanks!!!!! I wish we were all so open minded with advice....and also, appreciate you reading the post before replying....

 

I really like your 4Runner!!!! How does it compare to the Taco when driving on a normal - city road? Do you like it? That is what I am seriously considering if Taco goes back to the dealer....

 

They would absolutely ask that for the Tacoma on a dealership’s lot.

 

If you enjoy the truck and find value in its ownership, then i say do what makes sense for yourself and family. Everyone here will always have a different opinion when it comes to ownership, longevity, and especially when it comes to finances

 

They would ask $35k for the condition that car is in - and I have a good feeling it would quickly sell.....I have seen several used '16 - '19 Tacos selling for MORE than new ones....this I have never understood...

 

Of course the decision is and will be up to me but I wanted to know what people think about the topic in general that could perhaps bias my approach a little...

 

Yeah the KBB comeback around 31-34k not knowing a ton about your truck. So if your going to buy it out at 30k, don’t let it go to the dealer first and buy back for an additional 5k with no guarantee you’d even get your truck like someone had mentioned.