Ownership Calculator
Estimate the complete monthly and yearly cost of owning a gas, hybrid, or electric vehicle.
Using a public or shared computer? Press this button when you are finished to remove your saved vehicle details, loan, insurance, fuel or charging, and maintenance information so the next person cannot see it.
01
The car & the deal
Include the fees and taxes that dealers add to the advertised price.
Estimated amount financed $27,390
02
Financing
Longer loans lower the payment but often cost more in interest.
Total loan interest $5,151
03
Gas & driving
Your miles and fuel efficiency matter more than the tank size.
Estimated fuel each month $127
04
Insurance, upkeep & extras
The small recurring costs are what most first-time buyers forget.
Gas vs. hybrid vs. electric
Based on your 12,000 annual miles, your gas price, and your charging rates.
Energy comparison only. Actual savings depend on each vehicle’s price, insurance, financing, maintenance, and available charging.
First-car buying checklist
Shop the out-the-door price
Ask for the full price with taxes, fees, add-ons, and trade-in numbers before agreeing to a monthly payment.
Get your insurance quote first
Insurance can vary a lot between cars, and younger drivers often pay more than expected.
Check the loan—not just the payment
A longer term can look affordable every month while adding thousands in interest.
Read the add-ons carefully
GAP, protection plans, warranties, tracking devices, and appearance packages can increase your loan.
EV? Know where you will charge
Compare your home electricity rate, public charger prices, installation costs, and everyday driving range.
Plan for the surprise expenses
Tires, repairs, parking, registration renewals, and rising insurance rates deserve room in your budget.
YOUR COMPLETE VEHICLE & DRIVER TOOLKIT
Explore all 17 vehicle tools.
Compare loans, insurance, charging, maintenance, trade-ins, license preparation, depreciation, and the true cost of ownership.
Inspired by a father preparing his daughters for adulthood.
LifeHelper was inspired by a California father whose teenage daughters were approaching adulthood. He wanted them—and every young person—to have simple, practical tools for the real-life skills that are not always taught in school.
A QUICK NOTE BEFORE YOU GO
Helpful guidance, not professional advice.
LifeHelper.tips provides free educational tools and general information. Results are estimates and should not be considered financial, legal, employment, or professional advice. Always verify important decisions with a qualified professional.
Using a shared computer? Your tool entries are saved on your device. Clear your entries when you are finished so the next person cannot see them.