Guides / Paying and insuring
The true cost of owning a car
The sticker price and monthly payment get all the attention, but fuel, insurance, maintenance, repairs, registration and depreciation often add up to more.
What to know
- Add up every cost
- Payment, insurance, fuel, maintenance, repairs, registration, parking and tolls.
- Depreciation is real
- A car loses value over time, quickly in the first few years. Buying a lightly used car lets the first owner absorb some of that.
- Compare cars on total cost
- A cheaper car with higher insurance and fuel costs can cost more each month than a pricier one.
- Plan for repairs
- Set aside money every month for maintenance and repairs, especially on an older car.
Questions to ask
- What would insurance cost for this specific model?
- What is the real-world fuel economy for this model?
Where to check
- Our true cost calculator
- Estimate the full monthly cost of any car in a minute.
General information for US drivers, not financial, legal or mechanical advice for your situation. Consumer protection, title and lemon laws vary by state. The Nickel Stretcher isn't paid by any dealer, lender, insurer or brand mentioned here.