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What Is the Total Cost of Owning a Car?
The average cost of owning a car is $11,577 annually or $965 monthly. Use our calculator to see how much you're spending.
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NerdWallet's writers and editors offer clear answers about car financing — from auto loans to leasing and refinancing — so you can make smart, cost-saving choices and get the best deal.
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Best Extended Car Warranty Companies of 2026
We shopped and compared extended car warranty companies, and only a few rose to the top. Here’s what we learned about customer experience, coverage and costs.
How to Cancel an Extended Car Warranty in 2026
How to Sell Your Car When You Still Have a Loan
To sell your car and transfer ownership, you must first pay off your car loan. Here are the steps to take.
Are Car Prices Going Up or Down?
The average new car price continues to hover around $50,000. Here’s what to know about today's car market and buying a car.
Car Lease Calculator
Estimate your monthly car lease payment and use it as a benchmark when shopping for a good deal.
Buying a New vs. Used Car: Which Is Better?
When deciding whether to buy a new or used car, knowing the pros and cons of each can help with your decision.
How Much Should My Car Payment Be?
Aim to spend no more than 10% of your monthly take-home pay on a car payment, but you may have flexibility.
Refinancing a Car Loan in 6 Steps
Refinancing a car loan doesn’t take long from application to approval. Here's how to refinance a car and possibly save money.
Should You Pay Off a Car Loan Early?
Weigh the pros and cons of paying off your auto loan early and consider your financial situation.
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With hundreds of articles and 30+ years of combined expertise, our team helps you make confident financial choices. Discover more from NerdWallet's writers and strategists.
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Latest articles
Premier Auto Protect 2026 Review: Lowest-Cost Extended Car Warranty for Older Vehicles
Premier Auto Protect offers 24/7/365 claim filing, but plan options can be vague.
CARCHEX 2026 Review: A Mid-Range Extended Car Warranty
CARCHEX offers low-priced coverage for newer vehicles, but it’s not accredited and customer reviews are concerning.
CarShield 2026 Review: Low-Cost Extended Car Warranty for Newer Cars
CarShield offers vehicle service contracts at competitive prices for lower-mileage cars, but actual coverage can be unclear.
Olive 2026 Review: Convenient Extended Car Warranty Option
Olive is a broker, not a direct administrator, but consumer-friendly terms like no waiting period make it a top choice.
Endurance 2026 Review: Our Top Extended Car Warranty Pick
Endurance’s plans are on the pricey side, but its transparency and comprehensive coverage makes it our winner.
Extended Warranties in California: Different Rules Apply
Vehicle service contracts are strictly regulated in California, with special safeguards for consumers.
What Voids a Car Warranty or Claim and How to Prevent It
Federal law prevents your factory warranty from being voided in most cases, but extended warranties don’t have the same protections.
How Extended Warranties Work for Electric Cars (EVs)
If your EV’s tech breaks down after the factory warranty expires, an extended warranty may help pay for repairs.
4 Steps to File a Car Warranty Claim – And Wrap It Up
There’s no guarantee your repair will be covered, but there are ways to improve your odds.
Car Warranty vs. Car Insurance: What’s the Difference?
Car insurance covers external damage, while a car warranty covers internal failures.
Auto Warranty vs. Vehicle Service Contract (Extended Warranty)
Vehicle service contracts are an optional way to cover repairs after your car’s factory warranty runs out.
Extended Warranty Scams: What Car Owners Need to Know
Not all extended car warranties are a scam, but it’s important to know how to spot red flags.
How to Shop For An Extended Car Warranty
Compare your options carefully, and don’t let high-pressure dealers lock you into a contract that’s too good to be true.
Best Extended Car Warranty Companies for Used Cars in 2026
We shopped extended car warranty companies to compare coverage for used cars. Here’s what we learned about customer experience, coverage, costs and more.
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Best Extended Car Warranty Companies of 2026
We shopped and compared extended car warranty companies, and only a few rose to the top. Here’s what we learned about customer experience, coverage and costs.
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8 Top Car-Buying Apps
Buying a car can be complicated. These apps offer unique features and helpful tools that can simplify the process.
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Types of Cars: Which Is the Best for You?
From sedans to SUVs to pickups, each vehicle type offers unique trade-offs in space, performance and cost. This guide breaks them all down to help you choose the right fit for your needs and budget.
No Tax on Car Loan Interest: How to Claim This Deduction
How to qualify for and claim the new auto loan interest tax deduction of up to $10,000 annually.
How Does a Pre-Purchase Inspection for Cars Work?
Buying a used car can save money, but it comes with risks. A pre-purchase inspection can help avoid those risks.
Do Lemon Laws Apply to Used Vehicles?
Lemon laws usually apply to new cars, but some states have lemon laws that apply to used cars, too.
