π Auto & Vehicle Calculator Hub
Everything you need to make smart car decisions. From calculating fuel costs to comparing EV savings and figuring out what you can afford.
Gas Mileage Calculator
Track your fuel efficiency by calculating miles per gallon. See how your driving habits affect your MPG.
Calculate MPG βTrip Fuel Cost
Plan your road trip budget. Enter distance, MPG, and gas price to estimate total fuel costs.
Plan Trip βCar Loan Calculator
Calculate monthly auto loan payments, total interest, and see how different terms affect your costs.
Calculate Payment βCar Lease Calculator
Estimate monthly lease payments including money factor, residual value, and fees.
Estimate Lease βEV Savings Calculator
Compare the total cost of owning an electric vehicle vs. a gas car over time. See your potential savings.
Compare EV vs Gas βCar Depreciation Calculator
See how your car's value drops over time. Understand the true cost of ownership beyond the sticker price.
Check Depreciation βTire Size Calculator
Compare tire sizes and see how different sizes affect speedometer accuracy and ground clearance.
Compare Tires βCar Affordability
Find out how much car you can afford based on your income, expenses, and down payment.
Check Budget βπ Smart Car Buying Guide
Follow these steps to get the best deal on your next vehicle.
Set Your Budget
Use our car affordability calculator. Keep total car costs (payment, insurance, gas, maintenance) under 15-20% of take-home pay.
Get Pre-Approved
Check rates at your bank or credit union before the dealership. This gives you negotiating power.
Research Your Options
Compare new vs. used. A 2-3 year old certified pre-owned car avoids the steepest depreciation.
Consider Total Cost of Ownership
Don't just look at the sticker price. Factor in insurance, fuel, maintenance, and depreciation.
Lease vs. Buy Decision
Leasing = lower payments, always new car. Buying = higher payments, but you own it and build equity.
Negotiate the Price
Focus on the total out-the-door price, not just the monthly payment. Get quotes from multiple dealers.
π‘ Quick Facts for Car Buyers
The 20/4/10 Rule
Put at least 20% down, finance for no more than 4 years, and keep total transportation costs under 10% of gross income. This keeps you from being "upside down" on your loan.
Depreciation Facts
- Year 1: Cars lose 20-25% of value
- Year 3: Lost about 40% of value
- Year 5: Worth about half the original price
- Best value: Buy 2-3 years old
EV vs Gas Comparison
- EVs cost ~$0.04/mile in electricity
- Gas cars cost ~$0.12-0.16/mile in fuel
- EVs save $800-1,200/year on fuel
- EV maintenance is 30-40% cheaper
- Federal tax credit up to $7,500 for EVs
Hidden Costs to Budget
- Insurance ($1,200-2,400/year)
- Maintenance ($500-1,000/year)
- Registration and taxes
- Fuel ($1,500-3,000/year)
- Parking and tolls
π Key Auto Terms to Know
Ready to Start?
Begin with our car affordability calculator to see what fits your budget.