How much does it really cost to maintain a car in 2026?

Maintaining a car in Rome in 2026 has become increasingly expensive.
Between fuel, insurance, maintenance, and parking, the real cost is often much higher than you think.

👉 But how much do you really spend each month?
When it comes to car maintenance, you need to consider all expenses, not just fuel.

🚗 Main costs:

• fuel (petrol/diesel)
• car insurance
• stamp
• ordinary maintenance (coupons)
• extraordinary maintenance
• tires
• parking and fines

👉 In Rome, between traffic and daily use, these expenses can significantly impact your monthly budget.

Average monthly cost of gasoline for a car

Let's see a realistic estimate for average city use:

• fuel: €150 – €250
• insurance: €80 – €120
• maintenance: €50 – €100
• stamp duty + other costs: €30 – €50

👉 Total: approximately €300 – €500 per month

👉 without considering unforeseen events or breakdowns

Average cost of an electric car

Electric cars allow you to reduce some expenses:

• recharge: €80 – €150
• insurance: €70 – €120
• maintenance: €30 – €60

👉 Total: approximately €180 – €330 per month

👉 much lower than traditional engines

🔌To better understand the charging costs you can read the complete guide on
electric car charging in Rome

The hidden cost: devaluation

Many forget a fundamental voice:

👉 the loss of value of the car

A new car can lose:

• up to 20-30% already in the first year
• beyond the 50% in a few years

👉 this is a real cost, even if not immediate