Be Car Conscious.

Cars are convenient little buggers. They sit in the driveway ready to get us where we need to go. And they don’t cost that much, right? Well, they kind of do.

The truth is, most Vermonters don’t have a sense of how much it really costs to own and drive a car. That’s why we’ve put together this easy calculator to help you be more conscious of your true driving costs. Ready to get started?

Your Guess

How much do you think it costs to operate your primary vehicle for one year?

About your car

Step 2 of 4

What kind of car do you drive? Did you buy it new or used? new used How many years have you owned your car? How much did you pay for it?

Ownership Expenses

Step 3 of 4

If you have one, how much is your monthly car payment?

I don't have one

What is your monthly insurance payment?

Use Vermont average

Do you have AAA or another roadside service? yes no

What is your annual membership fee?

Do you pay for parking at home or at work? yes no

What is your total monthly parking fee?

Note: We’ll include registration and inspections automatically for you.

Operating Expenses

Step 4 of 4

How many miles did you drive last year?

Use Vermont average

About how much do you spend on gas each month?

Use Vermont average

What routine maintenance do you perform on your car? (check all that apply) Oil change at recommended intervals
Seasonal tire changeover
Car wash

How many times per year?

Interior detail

How many times per year?

How much did you spend on repairs or replacements last year? Some common expenses include new tires, wiper replacement, a new battery, brake work, and exhaust work.

Use Vermont average

You're about to be more car conscious.

Your Results:

Your guess:

Your out-of-pocket cost per year:

National average cost per year: Based on AAA research

And, don't forget about depreciation

You bought your car for:

If you sold your vehicle today it would be worth:

Your loss in value since you purchased your car is:

Learn more about depreciation

Depreciation is one of the most significant, yet most over-looked, costs of car ownership. A new car loses 18% of its value the first year you own it, and 11% every year thereafter. That means in just five short years, your shiny new car will be worth nearly 50% less then what you paid for it! That’s real money out of your pocket if you ever decide to sell or replace it. And used cars don’t fare much better. Whomever you bought it from took the biggest hit, but you can still expect to lose 11% per year in value as long as you own it. Who knew?!

Were you surprised by these numbers? Share your thoughts:

Thanks for calculating your car cost and sharing your thoughts!