I currently have a 2024 EX AWD that I am leasing at $551 a month (southern California). I have one payment left. I really like this car, and would like to keep it if possible, but I cannot afford an outright full buyout. I was thinking to finance it, but not sure of how to start/what to do. I am not opposed to leasing a new car if the deal was unbelievable for something like a newer hybrid, but would honestly rather own. My credit score is currently fluctuating in the mid-high 700s if that has any bearing on this all.
My deal was for 12K miles per year, and I am currently only at 22K miles, so I understand I could use that to my benefit? The only real issuer the car has had has been that the rear camera appears in black and white 90% of the time, since the first week of my lease, and they have never been able to fix it. The car has no damage except a tiny scratch about the length of a dime on the passenger door. The tire/tread depth for all tires is at the middle/yellow level. I have had three yearly maintenances done at the local dealer, the most recent being earlier this summer. Currently the car needs new wiper blades, air/engine filter, and cabin filter. Will those replacements be used against me when ending the lease? I thought of paying the dealer to get them fixed now, but with such little time remaining on my lease, I didn't know if that was smart to do now. Also, if I finance, do I still have a warranty like my lease where I can get one free yearly service, or will I then have to cover all and any maintenance issues by myself?
I would like to obviously avoid as many fees as possible during this process, so am wondering what I should do. I have read that contacting Honda Financial Services phone number is my best bet, and to just deal with them and avoid the dealer, but wanted to make sure. Apologies for the drawn out post, but any advice/info would be greatly appreciated. This is my first time dealing with an end of lease situation, so not the most knowledgable, hence why coming here for advice. Thanks!