Costo reale di possedere un'auto: TCO completo
The true cost of car ownership extends far beyond the monthly payment. According to AAA, the average cost to own and operate a new vehicle is approximately $10,700 per year or $0.72 per mile. The largest expense is depreciation — a new car loses 20% of its value in the first year and approximately 50% over 5 years. Financing costs depend on credit score, loan term, and down payment. A 60-month loan at 6.5% on a $30,000 car (after $5,000 down) results in roughly $4,800 in total interest. Insurance averages $1,500-$2,000/year. Fuel costs depend on efficiency and driving habits — at $0.15/mile and 12,000 miles/year, that is $1,800 annually. Maintenance and repairs average $800-$1,200/year, increasing as the car ages. The key insight is that total 5-year ownership often equals 1.5-2x the purchase price.