Car Depreciation Calculator
Cars lose value fast. Project what a vehicle will be worth in a few years using typical depreciation — about 20% the first year, ~15% after.
Look up real resale values for your model
Learn moreThe steepest drop is early
Depreciation is front-loaded: a new car can shed ~20% in the first year and around 15% each year after, leaving many vehicles worth roughly 40% of sticker after five years. That’s why buying lightly used — letting someone else absorb year one — is often the value play.
How it’s calculated & sources
We apply the first-year rate once, then the later-year rate for each remaining year, compounding on the declining value. Real depreciation varies by make, mileage and condition.
Benchmark: typical cars lose ~20% in year one and ~15%/year after — about 60% of value gone by year five (Edmunds / CARFAX).
Results update as you type and are general estimates, not personalized financial, tax, medical or legal advice. Verify with a professional.
Worked example
A $35,000 car drops to about $14,800 after five years — a $20,200 loss, or roughly $4,000 a year.
Frequently asked questions
Which cars hold value best?
Trucks, certain SUVs and reliable brands depreciate slowest; luxury sedans and EVs with fast-improving tech often depreciate fastest.
Does mileage matter?
A lot — high annual mileage accelerates depreciation beyond these averages, while low mileage slows it.