Owning a car has become a necessity in today’s society. If you want to get around town or go out for a ride, you’ll need a vehicle. And if you don’t have one, you might be wondering how much it costs to own one.
There are several types of vehicles, from luxury cars to minivans. The price of each type varies depending on the model, size, features, and options.
There are two main ways to finance a vehicle purchase: leasing and buying. Leasing is similar to renting, where you pay a fixed amount per month for a certain period. Buying, however, means paying off the entire cost at once.
The following information will help you determine what it costs to buy a vehicle and whether financing makes sense for your needs.
Buying vs. Financing
Many people ask themselves, “Should I buy or lease?” To answer this question, you have to consider monthly payments, interest rates, depreciation, and other important aspects of owning a vehicle.
Most financial experts agree that if you plan to drive the same vehicle for 10 years or more, purchasing a new (or used) vehicle would make the most sense. The additional money spent on a vehicle is worth more than an equivalent amount paid over a longer period.
A good rule of thumb when deciding between these two decisions is to compare the total cost of ownership. For example, let’s say you decide to buy a five-year-old Toyota Corolla. Your monthly payment would likely range from $150-$300. You’d also need to consider maintenance, fuel, and insurance costs as well as possible repairs. In contrast, the yearly amount for leasing a Corolla could run anywhere from $1,600-$3,200. These figures do not include taxes and fees.
If you’re considering leasing instead of purchasing a vehicle, there are some things you should be aware of:
• Annual operating expenses – Maintenance, gas, oil changes, etc.
• Interest expense – Monthly loan payments
• Depreciation – Most leased vehicles depreciate faster than their purchased counterparts.
• Capitalized Cost Reduction – A reduction in capital expenditures results from leased vehicles. Typically, this occurs due to lower average age and higher safety ratings.
Lease terms vary by automaker, so comparing different offers can help you choose which company best suits your budget and requirements.
How Much Does It Cost to Own a Car?
Knowing exactly how many miles per year your vehicle will travel can provide valuable insight into how much you’ll spend on operating and maintaining it. But first, it’s important to know what kind of vehicle you want. While all makes and models share basic components, they differ wildly based on trim level, equipment, and accessories. The average yearly cost of owning a vehicle is $8,558. It can range from $4,500 to $11,250.
The decision between leasing and buying a vehicle has many variables, including the length of time you expect to own the car and how much it will cost each month.
