Practical guide

What does a car really cost to run?

Fuel, insurance, maintenance, tax, MOT and depreciation.

Fuel is only one part

Insurance, servicing, MOT, tax and depreciation can materially change the cost per mile.

Annualise then divide

Cost per mile = total annual car cost ÷ annual mileage

Use your own figures

Two owners of the same model can have very different insurance, mileage and maintenance costs.

Open cost-per-mile calculator →


Last reviewed: 31 August 2026. See also methodology and sources.