Mon May 05 2025, by Tyler Gardner

Retirement PlanningCar ExpensesFinancial LiteracyWealth ManagementExperience Over Material

3 Mistakes Retirees Make When It Comes to Cars

You might wanna hear this one.

1. Thinking You Need a Brand New Car Every Few Years

Any retirees who reward themselves with a new car every few years are making a big mistake. It's a depreciating asset, not an investment, and it destroys wealth very quickly. Most cars lose about 50% of their value within five years.

2. Paying Cash for a Car When Interest Rates Are Low

A lot of retirees think that now that they have cash, they should just use it to buy everything. But if interest rates are at 4%, keep some cash invested in the stock market growing at 7%. Come on, you know this!

3. Overspending on Cars Instead of Prioritizing Experience

I get it—cars can be part of an experience. But remember, cars are an expense! The happiest retirees I know prioritize true experiences over material possessions.

Conclusion

If any of this resonates with you, tune into my new podcast, Your Money Guide on the Side, by clicking the link in my bio.

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