[header] How to get an open end car lease [title] Differentiate between open and closed ended leases. [step] Open and closed ended leases operate in very much the same manner throughout the life of the contract. The difference between the two lies in what happens upon the end of the agreed upon timeframe. 
Closed end leases are more common for consumers, as you can simply return the car at the completion of the contract with no additional financial responsibilities unless the vehicle requires repairs. [substeps] You are responsible for this balloon payment regardless of the actual value of the car at the end of the contract.