How to total your car costs
Bring the running costs and depreciation into one yearly figure.
Enter annual mileage
Use a full year of driving, not a single month extrapolated from a quiet period.
Add fixed costs
Include insurance, servicing, tyres, registration and inspection fees.
Estimate depreciation
Use the value lost over a year, or about 15% of the car value in the early years.
What does this tool do?
The sticker price is only the start: fuel, insurance, servicing and depreciation all add to the cost of keeping a car on the road. This calculator combines those running costs into a yearly total and a cost per mile.
The Formula
Annual cost = (miles ÷ mpg) × fuel price + insurance and maintenance + depreciationFrequently Asked Questions
Should depreciation be included?
Yes if you want the true cost of ownership. Depreciation is often the largest single cost in the first years, even though it is not paid monthly.
How can I reduce running costs?
Smooth driving, correct tyre pressure and timely servicing help fuel economy. Comparing insurance every year and choosing a model with strong resale value reduces the other big lines.