The average car running costs in the UK depend on factors such as fuel prices, annual mileage, vehicle type, servicing, repairs and depreciation. Excluding insurance, finance, parking and road tax, many drivers can expect to spend several thousand pounds per year to run a car.
In this guide, we break down the typical costs of running a car in the UK and show how you can estimate your own running costs using real data.
Average Car Running Costs Per Month (UK)
Below is an example of monthly running costs for a UK driver covering around 10,000 miles per year. This is higher than typical average annual mileage, but useful for showing how fuel, depreciation and maintenance can build up:
| Cost Type |
Monthly Cost |
Annual Cost |
| Fuel |
£120 - £250 |
£1,400 - £3,000 |
| Depreciation |
£150 - £300 |
£1,800 - £3,600 |
| Maintenance & Repairs |
£50 - £100 |
£600 - £1,200 |
| Total |
£320 - £650 |
£3,800 - £7,800 |
What Affects Car Running Costs?
Several key factors influence how much it costs to run a car in the UK:
- Fuel consumption (MPG) – more efficient cars cost less to run
- Fuel price – petrol and diesel prices fluctuate significantly
- Depreciation – often the largest cost over time
- Annual mileage – higher mileage increases fuel and maintenance costs
- Vehicle type – electric, hybrid and petrol cars all differ
Average Cost Per Mile (PPM)
In the UK, the average cost per mile (pence per mile or PPM) for a car typically ranges between:
30p to 70p per mile
This includes fuel, depreciation and maintenance costs. Lower-cost vehicles and electric cars may fall below this range, while larger or premium vehicles may exceed it.
How to Calculate Your Own Car Running Costs
The averages above are useful, but your actual costs will depend on your car, mileage and driving habits.
To get a more accurate estimate, you can use our calculator:
Use the Car Running Costs Calculator
Compare Running Costs for Different Cars
If you're choosing between vehicles, it's important to compare running costs side-by-side. This helps you understand which cars are cheaper to run over time.
Compare Car Running Costs
Summary
The average car running cost in the UK is influenced by fuel, depreciation and maintenance. Most drivers spend several thousand pounds per year, with cost per mile typically between 30p and 70p.
Using a running costs calculator is the best way to get a personalised estimate based on your own vehicle and driving habits.