It's getting easier to get a good interest rate on a car loan, and many Americans are ready to start shopping for their next new car or used car. But smart car shoppers don't sign on the dotted line until they are sure it fits within their budget. That goes beyond the monthly car payment and includes the total amount to keep your car on the road each year. Many independent car information websites provide ownership costs, but these numbers are just national averages. Your actual costs to own and operate a car could be widely different since so many factors are based on the individual's situation.

To calculate your ownership costs for a specific car, you can start with the data from an independent car information website where the numbers for depreciation, repairs and maintenance can definitely be used if you are buying a new car. They also should be fine if you are buying a used car, as long as the model you are buying is of average mileage and condition.