See how your car's value decreases over time. Calculate current value based on age and project future depreciation to plan your next vehicle purchase.
60-month new car loans — updated April 2026
| Lender | Rate | APR | Est. Payment | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Credit Union AutoBest Rate | 4.990% | 5.150% | $377/mo | Check Rate |
Online Auto Loans | 5.490% | 5.650% | $382/mo | Check Rate |
Auto Finance Direct | 5.990% | 6.250% | $387/mo | Check Rate |
National Bank Auto | 6.490% | 6.750% | $392/mo | Check Rate |
Dealer Finance | 6.990% | 7.250% | $397/mo | Check Rate |
Rates shown are for illustrative purposes. Actual rates may vary based on credit score, loan amount, down payment, and market conditions. Contact lenders directly for personalized rate quotes.
A new car loses approximately 20-30% of its value in the first year and about 60% after five years. Depreciation is the single largest cost of car ownership. This calculator projects your vehicle's future value so you can plan for resale or trade-in at the optimal time.
Car depreciation is the single largest cost of vehicle ownership, often exceeding fuel, insurance, and maintenance combined. A new car loses approximately 20% of its value in the first year and roughly 60% over the first five years. This calculator uses industry-standard depreciation curves to estimate your vehicle's current value based on its original purchase price and age, then projects future values so you can plan when to sell or trade in for maximum return. Understanding depreciation helps you make smarter buying decisions. Vehicles that hold their value well (Toyota, Honda, Subaru, Porsche) depreciate more slowly, meaning lower total cost of ownership. Buying a car that is 2-3 years old lets you avoid the steepest depreciation while still getting a relatively new vehicle with modern features and remaining warranty coverage. The depreciation curve flattens significantly after year five, which is why older cars lose value more slowly in percentage terms. This information is also crucial for determining whether you are underwater on your car loan (owing more than the car is worth), deciding when to sell or trade in, and calculating the true cost of ownership for budgeting purposes.
Understanding how to use financial calculators effectively requires knowing the underlying concepts. The car depreciation involves several key financial principles that affect your results.
Our calculator uses industry-standard formulas verified by certified financial professionals. The inputs you provide are processed entirely in your browser — we never store or transmit your financial data. Results update in real time as you adjust values, allowing you to explore different scenarios quickly.
For the most accurate results, use current figures from your most recent financial statements. If you are unsure about a specific input, our default values represent national averages based on data from the Federal Reserve, IRS, and Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Remember that calculator results are estimates for educational purposes. Your actual financial situation may differ based on factors like your credit score, specific lender terms, local regulations, and market conditions. We recommend consulting with a qualified financial professional before making major financial decisions.
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Results are estimates only and not financial advice. Calculator logic verified by Michael Chen, CFP®. Full disclaimer · Methodology