Should You Lease or Buy Your Wheel Alignment Equipment?

Deciding the Best Way to Invest in Wheel Alignment Tools

When opening or upgrading an auto repair shop, one key decision is whether to lease or buy a wheel alignment machine for sale. According to Coats Company, this choice depends on the shop’s current finances, future growth plans, and how often the equipment will be used. Both options have their advantages, and understanding them can help you make a smart investment.

What Does a Wheel Alignment Machine Do?

Purpose of the Equipment

A wheel alignment machine measures the angles of a vehicle’s wheels and compares them to the manufacturer’s recommended settings. If needed, the machine helps technicians adjust these angles to improve handling, fuel efficiency, and tire life.

Key Features

Modern alignment machines, like those offered by Coats Company, often include:

• Real-time digital measurements

• High-resolution cameras or sensors

• Software for diagnostics and reporting

• Easy-to-follow guidance for technicians

Buying a Wheel Alignment Machine

Pros of Buying

• Full Ownership: Once purchased, the machine belongs to your shop and can be used as often as needed.

• Long-Term Savings: Buying may cost more upfront but often saves money over time compared to leasing.

• Asset Building: The equipment becomes part of your business assets and may help increase the value of your shop.

Cons of Buying

• Higher Initial Cost: Buying a machine requires a large upfront payment, which can be difficult for smaller or newer businesses.

• Maintenance Responsibility: As the owner, you're responsible for any repairs and regular upkeep.

• Outdated Equipment: Technology changes quickly, and owning means you may end up with an older model in a few years.

Leasing a Wheel Alignment Machine

Pros of Leasing

• Lower Upfront Costs: Leasing requires a smaller initial payment, making it easier for shops with limited budgets.

• Access to Latest Technology: Leasing often allows for easy upgrades, so you can always use the latest models.

• Maintenance Included: Many lease agreements include maintenance, reducing your shop’s workload and unexpected repair costs.

Cons of Leasing

• No Ownership: At the end of the lease, you do not own the machine unless a buyout option is included.

• Ongoing Payments: Over time, leasing may end up costing more than buying outright.

• Limited Use Terms: Some leases come with usage limits or strict contract rules that can be hard to manage.

Questions to Ask Before Choosing

How Often Will You Use the Machine?

If your shop performs wheel alignments daily, buying may make more sense. For occasional use, leasing might be more cost-effective.

What Is Your Current Budget?

Consider how much you can spend without affecting other parts of your business. Leasing offers flexibility if cash flow is tight.

Do You Want to Own the Equipment?

Owning may be better for long-term growth. Leasing offers more flexibility for short-term needs or uncertain shop sizes.

Are You Prepared for Maintenance?

With buying, you handle all maintenance. Leasing may include service support from the provider, like Coats Company.

How Coats Company Supports Both Buyers and Leasers

Wide Range of Machines

Coats Company offers different models to meet the needs of various shops, whether large or small.

Flexible Financing Options

They help shops buy or lease alignment machines with terms that match their business goals and cash flow.

Training and Support

All Coats machines come with setup help, technician training, and ongoing customer support.

Upgrade Programs

For shops that want the latest features, Coats Company also provides upgrade paths for leased or older equipment.

Case Study: A Small Garage’s Leasing Experience

The Challenge

A small startup auto garage needed a wheel alignment machine but couldn’t afford the full purchase price.

The Solution

They leased a Coats wheel alignment machine with monthly payments and maintenance included.

The Result

The shop was able to offer wheel alignment services from day one, helping it grow faster without putting pressure on the budget.

Case Study: A High-Volume Shop Chooses to Buy

The Challenge

A busy urban repair shop needed to upgrade from older equipment to improve accuracy and speed.

The Solution

They purchased a new Coats wheel alignment machine with long-term value in mind.

The Result

The investment paid off quickly due to frequent use, and the shop became known for reliable and accurate alignments.

Comparing Costs Over Time

Initial Costs

• Buying: High one-time cost

• Leasing: Lower upfront cost

Monthly Expenses

• Buying: No monthly payments after purchase

• Leasing: Monthly payments continue for the term of the lease

Ownership Value

• Buying: You own the equipment

• Leasing: Equipment must be returned unless purchased

Maintenance

• Buying: Paid by the shop

• Leasing: Often included

Making the Smart Choice

Short-Term Use

Leasing is ideal for shops starting out, trying new services, or unsure of future demand.

Long-Term Commitment

Buying is better for shops that plan to use the machine frequently and want full control of their tools.

Business Goals

Your growth plan should guide your decision. If you're expanding or need to impress customers with advanced tools, buying may be the best fit.

Final Thoughts

Deciding whether to lease or buy a wheel alignment machine for sale depends on your shop’s size, budget, and long-term goals. Both options offer benefits, and Coats Company supports shops at every stage with high-quality machines, flexible plans, and expert service. Choosing the right option helps your shop stay competitive and offer top-level service.

Here, you can read more Blogs!