Owning a Vehicle
Other costs. Car washes, cleaning supplies etc. These may seem minor but
they can add up over a year.
Repairs. At some point, you will need to make repairs on your vehicle. You
can budget a small amount of money for this every month so that you can be
prepared when there is an unexpected repair.
Fuel. Fuel prices fluctuate greatly. Expect prices to continue to go up over
time.
This tool from the Canadian Automobile Association can help you figure out your
driving costs, http://caa.ca/car_costs/. It takes into account the cost of fuel and
depreciation of the vehicle. That’s right – every year the value of your vehicle
decreases.
Now that you know the costs to operate your vehicle
you will have to find one! You can purchase a used
vehicle, or if you choose to buy a new vehicle, you
have the option to lease. Not sure whether you
should lease or purchase? This tool can help you
figure out the cost difference between the two
options,
https://www.ic.gc.ca/-bc/ssc/vehicle.html?lang=eng
app/scr/oca
Photo via Visualhunt.com
Kootenay CarShare
If you would like access to a vehicle but don’t want the commitment of owning
one, why not check out the Kootenay Carshare? There is a membership fee to
join. It can give you access to a vehicle without the full expense of ownership.
One must be over the age of 16, and have three or less minor driving infractions
in the last three years on your Drivers Abstract. For more information go to the
following link: http://www.carsharecoop.ca/car-locations/revelstoke/
Did you know….?
Bringing a vehicle from another province or even another country can save you some money. But
there are also expenses, like inspections and other fees. Be informed – check out this website for
more info on importing a vehicle. http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/motorvehiclesafety/safevehicles-
importation-faq-before-import-1278.htm
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