Vehicle Cost of Ownership in Allentown, PA

When purchasing a new or used vehicle, it’s easy to focus on just one number: the sale price. But let’s be honest – owning a vehicle is not just about the purchase price or loan payment. At Scott Family of Dealerships in Allentown, PA, we’re committed to making sure you leave informed and confident about your purchase. That’s why our dedicated team of experts will lay out everything that goes into the total cost of vehicle ownership so you can establish an educated budget that fits your lifestyle.

Let’s talk dollars, cents, and the things you may not think about when budgeting for vehicle ownership.

Start with the Purchase Price

This one’s obvious, but it’s more than just MSRP. You’ll want to factor in:

• Sales Tax (Pennsylvania is currently 6%)
• Title, Registration, and Documentation Fees
• Optional Warranties or Protection Plans
• Down Payment or Trade-In Value

The total amount you pay upfront will depend on whether you are financing, leasing, or paying cash for your vehicle. The finance team at Scott Family of Dealerships can guide you on your options and budget accordingly.

Consider Depreciation

Depreciation is defined as the decrease in your vehicle’s value over time. It is the largest ownership cost, but the hardest to see.

Vehicles lose around 20–30 percent of their value in the first year, and up to 60 percent in five years, depending on the make and model of the vehicle. Some manufacturers, like Toyota, Subaru, and Honda, retain their value better than others.

Pro Tip: Buying a slightly used or certified pre-owned vehicle will likely avoid the deepest part of depreciation.

Factor in Maintenance & Repairs

Make sure to budget for:

• Oil Changes
• Tire Rotations
• Brake Service
• Battery Replacements
• Unexpected Repairs (especially after warranty expiration)

At Scott Family of Dealerships, we offer certified service centers for each brand we carry – plus maintenance plans that help you save on routine care.

Insurance Costs

Your insurance rate depends on your vehicle, driving record, age, and even your ZIP code. Generally, newer vehicles with more advanced safety features tend to have lower premiums, while sports vehicles or luxury vehicles can increase them.

Get a few insurance quotes before you buy so you’re not caught off guard.

Fuel or Charging Costs

Fuel efficiency – or electric range – plays a big role in ownership costs. Look at:

• Miles per gallon (MPG) for gas vehicles.
• Miles per gallon equivalent (MPGe) or kilowatt hours per 100 miles (kWh/100 mi) for EVs.
• Your average weekly mileage.

Looking to save at the pump? Ask us about hybrid and electric vehicles available across our brands.

Financing & Interest

If you’re financing, your interest rate will affect your total cost of ownership. A lower APR can save you thousands over the life of your loan. Your rate will depend on:

• Credit Score
• Loan Term
• Down Payment

Your rate will also depend on whether you finance through the dealership or a bank.

We work with trusted lenders across Pennsylvania to find the most competitive rates – even if your credit is still a work in progress.

Real-Life Example: What It Looks Like

Let’s say you’re eyeing a new SUV with a purchase price of $35,000. Here’s what your five-year cost of ownership could look like:

• Depreciation: $14,000
• Fuel: $7,500
• Maintenance: $2,500
• Insurance: $6,000
• Taxes/Fees: $2,000
• Interest (loan): $3,000

Total Ownership Cost: ~$65,000

Let's Crunch the Numbers Together at Scott Family of Dealerships

At Scott Family of Dealerships in Allentown, we are not just going to sell you a vehicle – we are going to help you with a smart long-term decision. Whether you are shopping for new, pre-owned, or certified, one of our staff members will walk you through real-world costs, answer your questions, and get you driving confidently.

Come visit, call us, or initiate your shopping online. We will help you calculate what's best for your lifestyle and your budget.

Disclaimer: This content was drafted with AI assistance for initial drafting, reviewed by a subject-matter expert for accuracy, and edited by our team of writers and editors.