Young people aren’t paying their car loans. We can help.

What It Covers

Former FDIC Chair Sheila Bair, author of *How Not to Lose a Million Dollars*, advises young adults on car buying decisions through a call-in format, addressing two real callers aged 21 and 23 facing different financial situations.

Key Questions Answered

• •True cost of car ownership: Monthly expenses for a financed vehicle extend well beyond the loan payment. A $30,000 loan at 6% over four years, plus insurance, gas, taxes, maintenance, and parking, totals roughly $1,000 per month for a new midsize SUV.
• •Delay purchase until employment is settled: Before committing to a car, confirm your job location and commute requirements first. Buying prematurely locks in major fixed costs before knowing whether the vehicle is even necessary, as alternatives like biking or transit may remain viable.
• •Used cars over new for financial leverage: A reliable used compact SUV can be purchased outright for under $20,000, eliminating loan interest entirely. Redirecting the $34,000 difference in cost and interest from a new car purchase into a retirement account compounds to roughly $1.47 million over 40 years.
• •New cars depreciate faster than used: New vehicles lose value rapidly after purchase, while used cars retain value comparatively better. Combined with higher loan costs and insurance premiums for new models, used cars deliver stronger long-term financial outcomes for young buyers with limited income history.