True Car Cost
Your car costs FAR more than fuel per mile
About This Calculator
Calculate the true all-in monthly and annual cost of owning your car, including depreciation, insurance, fuel, and maintenance.
Enter your actual spending below. The calculator instantly shows your monthly cost, annual cost, and 10-year total adjusted for 3% annual inflation. All calculations happen in your browser — nothing is stored or sent anywhere.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the true cost of owning a car per year?
AAA's 2024 report puts average new car ownership cost at $12,182/year ($1,015/month), including depreciation, insurance, fuel, maintenance, registration, and financing.
What is the biggest cost of owning a car?
Depreciation is typically the largest cost — a new car loses 20–30% of its value in the first year and 15–25% per year after that. On a $40,000 car, that's $6,000–$12,000 in year one alone.
Does this calculator include depreciation?
Enter your monthly loan/lease payment to approximate financing cost, or enter your estimated monthly depreciation for a cash-owned car. AAA estimates average depreciation at around $250–$450/month for new vehicles.
Disclaimer: All calculators on CostXray are for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing on this site constitutes financial, legal, or investment advice. Default values are based on US averages. Always consult a qualified financial advisor before making financial decisions.