Cost of Vehicle Ownership

What Should I Budget for Vehicle Ownership?

Q: How much will registration and inspection cost each year?

When you buy from Drive Casa , we handle your initial state inspection and registration. But after that, you’ll be responsible for renewing it annually. In Texas, the “Two Steps, One Sticker” program means you’ll get your inspection first (costing roughly $25–40), and then complete registration (typically $50.75 for most cars and light trucks). The good news? It’s a predictable yearly cost you can easily work into your budget.

Buying a car is a big step—and one that goes beyond just your down payment or monthly car note. At Drive Casa , we want to make sure you’re happy not just on day one, but every day after. That means helping you understand the total cost of owning a vehicle. From gas and insurance to registration and maintenance, we encourage every customer to create a realistic monthly budget before buying. Planning ahead helps you protect your finances, avoid surprises, and feel confident about your purchase.

What Ongoing Costs Should I Expect as a Vehicle Owner?

How much will registration and inspection cost each year?

When you buy from Drive Casa , we handle your initial state inspection and registration. But after that, you’ll be responsible for renewing it annually. In Texas, the “Two Steps, One Sticker” program means you’ll get your inspection first (costing roughly $25–40), and then complete registration (typically $50.75 for most cars and light trucks). The good news? It’s a predictable yearly cost you can easily work into your budget.

What’s a realistic fuel budget for my car?

Fuel costs can add up quickly depending on your commute, driving habits, and vehicle type. Take time to review the estimated miles per gallon (MPG) your car gets and how far you typically drive. For example, if you drive 50 miles a day in a car that gets 27 MPG and gas is $2.25/gallon, you’re spending around $134/month on gas. That number can shift with fuel prices, so plan conservatively.

Gas, tags, and state-required services aren’t optional, so include them in your monthly planning. Drive Casa helps by covering your first registration and inspection—giving you a head start on ownership.

What Other Expenses Should I Plan For?

What kind of maintenance should I budget for?

Even with a well-maintained vehicle, you’ll need to account for wear-and-tear items like tires, brakes, alignments, and suspension parts. The good news? When you buy from Drive Casa, your first year of oil changes is completely free, as long as you stay within average mileage limits. If you drive more than 1,000 miles per month, budget for an occasional oil change outside the program.

What about insurance and other recurring costs?

Auto insurance is legally required and varies depending on the vehicle, your driving history, and other factors. Because newer vehicles can sometimes mean higher premiums, check with your insurance agent before purchase. At Drive Casa, we require proof of coverage at the time of sale. Also, remember to budget for any set monthly expenses like rent, utilities, credit cards, and childcare—so you have a full picture of your financial obligations.

The more realistic your budget is, the more confident you’ll feel about your car purchase. Our team is happy to help you walk through expected costs and create a plan that sets you up for long-term success.