Car Buying Guides
Browse 5 guides about Car Buying on Numeraty.
How Car Trade-In Values Work (and How to Get More)
A trade-in offer is your car's wholesale value minus reconditioning costs and dealer margin, typically 10-25% under retail. Most states then tax only the difference on your next purchase -- a $12,000 trade against a $32,000 car saves $840 at a 7% rate.
EV vs Gas Car in 2026: True Cost of Ownership Compared
The average EV costs $12,000 more upfront than a comparable gas vehicle in 2026, but fuel and maintenance savings of $2,000-$3,500 per year mean most EV buyers break even in 4-6 years -- before accounting for the $7,500 federal tax credit.
How Much Car Can I Afford? The 20/4/10 Rule Explained
The 20/4/10 rule says: 20% down, finance for no more than 4 years, and keep total car costs under 10% of gross income. On a $75,000 salary, that limits you to roughly a $28,000 vehicle.
Is Gap Insurance Worth It? Run the Numbers
Finance a $35,000 car with $3,000 down and tax rolled in, and one year later you owe about $2,000 more than the car is worth. Gap insurance bridges that hole for $50-$150 a year from your insurer, or $400-$800 once at the dealer. Three numbers decide whether you need it at all.
Lease vs Buy a Car in 2026: The Complete Math
On a $42,000 sedan, leasing runs about $520/month while financing runs $780/month -- but after 5 years you own nothing with a lease. The math depends on how you use a car, not just the monthly payment.