Total Cost of Car Ownership Calculator
Calculate the true 5-year cost of owning a car: depreciation, financing, fuel, insurance, maintenance, and fees combined.
Quick Take
This calculator gives you real-time estimates based on standard financial formulas. Modify any input and results update instantly — no calculate button needed.
Primary Result
Total Depreciation
What This Calculator Does
Calculate the true 5-year cost of owning a car: depreciation, financing, fuel, insurance, maintenance, and fees combined.
How the Calculation Works
Who Should Use This Tool
This calculator is designed for anyone looking to understand the financial implications of fuel & operating decisions. Whether you're a first-time buyer, comparing options, or planning for the future, these estimates help you make informed choices.
Important Considerations
Remember that actual terms, rates, and costs will vary by lender, your credit score, and current market conditions. These calculators provide educational estimates only and do not constitute professional financial advice. Always compare multiple offers and consult a financial professional before making decisions.
How the math works
Total cost of ownership sums depreciation, fuel, insurance, maintenance, and fees. AAA's 'Your Driving Costs' study publishes real per-mile ownership averages by vehicle type; depreciation figures come from used-car market data.
How to use this calculator
- Enter purchase price and expected years of ownership.
- Enter real local figures: fuel economy, insurance quote, maintenance, and registration fees.
- Read 5-year and per-mile cost; compare two vehicles before buying.
Sources & authoritative references
The definitions, formulas, and benchmarks behind this tool are drawn from the public, primary sources listed below. We do not cite figures we cannot verify.
- AAA — Your Driving Costs — American Automobile Association
- Kelley Blue Book — Vehicle Values & Pricing — Kelley Blue Book
- fueleconomy.gov — Official U.S. Government Fuel Economy Site — U.S. Department of Energy & EPA
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the true cost of owning a car?+
What's the biggest ownership cost?+
How much does a car cost per mile?+
When is the cheapest time to own a car?+
Does buying used save money?+
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