The real costs of owning a car

[Javaman]

http://money.cnn.com/2012/05/03/autos/cars-owner-costs.moneymag/index.htm

(MONEY Magazine) -- When buying a car, think beyond the purchase price. To understand a car's real cost, take into account how much you'll be spending on it over time.

For example, a new Honda CR-V EX and Kia Sorento LX both cost about $25,000, but the numbers look very different after five years of ownership.

Depreciation: Use the comparison tool at Intellichoice.com to get an estimate for what you'll pay now versus what the car will be worth by the time you trade it in.

"Look carefully at how well the car holds its value, especially if you're taking out a long loan," says Kris de la Cuesta of Intellichoice.

more at link...

[Scuba]

1. As with anything, it's the Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) that matters....

That's why buying online to save $1 on an item's purchase isn't a good deal if you then must pay $7 to get it shipped when a local purchase would not have required shipping.


There's lots of factors. The article gives good examples for cars. Thanks for posting.

[Sherman A1]

2. Good points

certainly worth considering.

[liberal N proud]

3. I would not buy a car from this dealer

The minute they set that clipboard on the hood of the car, the sale would be off.

If they don't care what the car looks like any more than that, then I don't think I want one of their cars.

I am in the process of replacing my 12 year old Chrysler. I think I have gotten every dimes worth out of it. The are has been the most reliable thing I have ever owned, it seems it just will not quit.

It is showing it's age and needing some repairs that are far more than what is left in value. It's one of those things that if I start fixing things now, it will be an ongoing maintenance and the cost of a car payment.

[Sinistrous]

4. I just drove a Chrysler product for a few days last week.

It was a Dodge Avenger. I almost hated to turn it in to the rental agency. It was a wonderful experience that greatly improved my opinion of Chrysler cars.

[RebelOne]

5. Also, factor in the cost of the car insurance. n/t