By Catherine Powell
There’s nothing like owning a new car. If you're considering buying one soon, you really owe it to yourself to understand the total cost the vehicle will represent during its lifetime. With an average cost of $45,031 in 2021, the first time in history the price has exceeded $45,000, the sticker shock of ownership isn't something for the faint of heart these days. But this is only the tip of the iceberg in what to many folks is the second-highest monthly expense they'll pay after rent or mortgage. If you don't want your next ride to take you for a ride, there are a few things you need to know before you drive off the dealer lot.
