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Car Budget Health Check

Today is Sunday 11th January 2026

Car Budget Health Check

Are you "Car Poor"? Check if your vehicle is eating too much of your income.

Checking...

Monthly Car Outgoings
Total monthly cost of fuel, insurance, finance, tax, MOT, and servicing.
£0
Monthly Income %
The percentage of your monthly take-home pay spent on all car costs.
0%
Finance Ratio
Your monthly car finance or lease payment as a percentage of your monthly take-home pay. If you own your car outright this result will be zero (0)
0%
Approx Annual Cost
Estimated total amount spent on your car over a full year.
£0

Disclaimer: This Monthly Car Budget Health Check provides an illustrative assessment based on the information you provide, assumptions, and industry averages. It is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice, budgeting advice, or a recommendation to take any action. Results are estimates and may not reflect your actual financial circumstances. ChangeCar.com accepts no responsibility for decisions made or financial losses incurred as a result of using this tool. You must carry out your own independent research and, where appropriate, seek advice from a qualified financial professional before making budgeting, financing, or vehicle-related decisions.

Understanding Your Car Budget Health

In the UK, car costs are often the second-largest household expense after housing. Our Health Check tool helps you visualize whether your vehicle is a sustainable asset or a financial burden.

What does "Car Poor" mean?

Being "Car Poor" occurs when your vehicle's total running costs—finance, insurance, fuel, and maintenance—consume such a large portion of your take-home pay that you struggle to meet other financial goals or savings targets.

Healthy (<10%)

You have significant financial breathing room for repairs and life.

Strained (15-20%)

One major repair or a rise in fuel prices could cause financial stress.

Critical (20%+)

You are likely 'Car Poor' and should consider downsizing or refinancing.

The True Cost of Ownership

When using the calculator above, remember to include the "invisible" costs that many UK drivers overlook:

  • The Maintenance Sinking Fund: Even if your car is running well today, you should set aside £30–£50 a month for future MOTs, tyres, and servicing.
  • Insurance Creep: UK premiums have seen sharp increases recently; ensure your "Health Check" uses your most recent renewal figure.
  • Finance vs. Equity: If more than 15% of your income goes purely to finance (PCP/HP), you are highly exposed to market fluctuations in car values.