If your car has started breaking down or is racking up repair bills, it might be time for a replacement. But how much car can you afford?
Financial expert Dave Ramsey has a straightforward answer: only buy what you can pay for in cash. This principle could save you thousands and help you avoid the trap of long-term debt.
Financing might seem easy, but it can cost significantly more in the long run. As of late 2024, the average interest rate for a new-car loan was 6.6%, while used car loans averaged 10.8%, according to Edmunds.com.
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That means financing a $30,000 car for five years at 6.6% interest would add over $5,300 in extra costs. Ramsey’s advice is simple: avoid the debt and stick to what you can pay up front.
To set your budget, start by looking at your savings.
How much can you spend without affecting your other financial priorities? If you have debt to pay off or are saving for a house, those goals should come first. If you’re trading in your current car, tools like Kelley Blue Book can help estimate its value and add that to your budget.
Ramsey also recommends a key rule: the total value of all your vehicles should not exceed half your annual income. For example, if you earn $70,000 a year, your cars’ combined value should stay under $35,000. This guideline helps prevent tying up too much of your wealth in assets that lose value over time.
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Depreciation is a big reason to think twice about buying a new car. According to a 2024 report by LeaseLoco, new cars can lose up to 20% of their value in the first year and nearly 50% within three years.
Ramsey suggests avoiding new cars unless you have a net worth of at least one million dollars. Opting for a reliable used car can save you thousands while still providing a dependable ride.
It’s also important to factor in the cost of owning a car beyond the sticker price. In 2024, AAA estimated the average annual cost of owning a vehicle – including fuel, maintenance and insurance – at $12,297.
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According to CarEdge, luxury vehicles often incur higher maintenance and repair costs than standard cars. For instance, the 10-year maintenance cost for a BMW 7 Series is approximately $14,768, whereas a standard Toyota Camry averages around $4,203 over the same period.
Even hybrids and electric vehicles may not always provide the savings you expect, given their higher up front prices.
If your current vehicle still runs, Ramsey suggests keeping it while you save for your next one. Set a goal based on the cost of the car you want and divide that amount by the months you plan to save.
For instance, saving $1,250 monthly could get you $15,000 in a year – without a single loan payment. If your car breaks down unexpectedly, repairing it or using your emergency fund may be better than rushing into a new purchase.
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This article Dave Ramsey Warns: ‘Asking How Much a Month’ Could Cost You $10,000 Extra On Your Car Purchase originally appeared on Benzinga.com
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