Thinking about trading in your car for one with better gas mileage? Before you make that decision, it’s crucial to understand your true cost-per-mile. You might be surprised to learn that your current car could be more cost-effective to drive than a new vehicle—especially when factoring in all the associated expenses like maintenance, insurance, and depreciation.
The cost-per-mile calculation takes into account more than just fuel efficiency. It includes how much you’re spending on regular maintenance, repairs, insurance, and other vehicle-related costs. In some cases, even a car that isn't the most fuel-efficient can end up being cheaper to own and operate than a newer model with better gas mileage.
By calculating the true cost of ownership, you’ll have a clearer picture of whether trading in your vehicle for a more fuel-efficient option is truly worth it. This will also help you make a smarter financial decision, considering not only the cost of gas but all the factors that affect your car's overall expenses.
To get started, simply input the required information into the yellow-highlighted boxes below. You can easily move between fields using the Tab key for a smooth, hassle-free experience.
Find out what your true cost-per-mile is before you trade in your car for something with better gas mileage. You might be surprised to learn that your current car actually costs less to drive than a replacement.
Please input information into the yellow highlighted boxes below. You may use the tab key to move between boxes.
Thinking about trading in your car for one with better gas mileage? Before you make that decision, it’s important to understand your true cost-per-mile. Your current car may be more cost-effective than a new vehicle once you factor in payments, repairs, insurance, registration, fuel, and other costs.
Enter your information into the yellow boxes below, then click Calculate.
ATRA member shops can help diagnose transmission issues, improve vehicle performance, and help you get the most out of your current vehicle.
Find an ATRA ShopThere are several ways we can help improve the gas mileage of your current vehicle. Things like:
Checking your transmission for excessive slip and proper converter clutch operation.
Checking tire pressures, checking the battery and electrical systems for excessive draw, and checking for dragging brakes.
Checking the computer system for diagnostic trouble codes and updated reprogramming.
Checking the engine oil, servicing the fuel system, checking for induction and exhaust-related problems.
These items are often overlooked and over time can reduce your gas mileage. As an ATRA Repair Center, we do more than repair transmissions, our goal is to help you with your transportation needs and help you get the most out of your car.
ATRA staff are available Monday - Friday to help with membership, technical, and warranty questions.
Since 1954, ATRA has been the benchmark for quality, ethics, and education in the transmission industry. When you see the ATRA seal, you know what it stands for.
Members pass technical proficiency exams to earn the ATRA seal — your guarantee of skill.
Every ATRA shop commits to honest diagnostics, fair pricing, and transparent repairs.
Over 1,800 member shops across North America — with 900 locations backed by the Golden Rule Warranty.
Members stay current on every new platform, from CVTs to 10-speeds and EV transaxles.
Every recommendation is tailored to your unique goals, risk profile, and investment horizon.
Our proprietary analytics engine processes thousands of data points to deliver actionable insights.
We work as an extension of your team, ensuring alignment at every stage of the engagement.
We hold ourselves to the highest standards of integrity, accuracy, and professionalism.
Whether you drive, fix, or supply — ATRA is built to get you exactly where you need to go.
