For many prospective car buyers, the dream of ownership is increasingly colliding with the reality of escalating costs. Beyond the initial purchase price, the ongoing expenses associated with vehicle ownership are prompting a shift in consumer behavior, with some owners now considering selling their cars rather than maintaining them.
According to a report from Türkiye Gazetesi, the average annual cost of owning a vehicle in 2026 is projected to range from 100,000 to 200,000 Turkish Lira. This significant financial burden is particularly impacting middle-income households.
Experts note that while higher-income individuals can more easily absorb these costs, those with lower incomes are often priced out of vehicle ownership altogether. The middle class is feeling the squeeze most acutely, leading to a reevaluation of transportation options. This trend underscores the growing economic pressures facing households as vehicle ownership becomes less sustainable.
A breakdown of annual vehicle costs reveals significant expenses: fuel (42,000 – 65,000 TL), Motor Vehicle Tax (MTV) (5,000 – 15,000 TL), traffic insurance (8,000 – 20,000 TL), comprehensive insurance (10,000 – 30,000 TL), maintenance (8,000 – 20,000 TL), and parking (12,000 – 36,000 TL). When tolls, tire replacements, cleaning, and traffic fines are factored in, the total annual cost often exceeds 150,000 TL for many owners.
“USAGE ON DEMAND” MODEL
These rising costs are influencing consumer decisions, with a growing number of individuals, particularly in major cities, listing their vehicles for sale. Second cars are being quickly sold off as the “usage on demand” model gains traction. This shift is driving increased adoption of public transportation, daily car rentals, and digital transportation alternatives.
Ride-sharing services are also experiencing increased demand, while scooter and bicycle usage is becoming more prevalent for short distances. Some individuals are even opting for motorcycles as a more affordable alternative.
“THE SITUATION HAS COMPLETELY REVERSED! MORE PEOPLE ARE SELLING THEIR CARS THAN BUYING NEW ONES”
Şeyhmus Nalkıran, a car dealer in Beylikdüzü, noted a significant change in the second-hand market. “Previously, people would reach to our dealership looking to buy a new car, planning their budget and options. Now, the situation has completely reversed. Most people are considering selling their existing car rather than buying a new one. With fuel, traffic insurance, comprehensive insurance, MTV, parking, bridge and highway tolls, annual expenses are reaching 150,000 TL. This burden has become unbearable, especially for middle-income customers. As far as I can see, demand has shifted entirely to second-hand car sales, and buying a new car has taken a backseat. People are finding it more logical to use daily rentals, public transportation, and shared mobility options. For the middle class, this is often no longer a choice but a necessity. In short, there are more people selling their cars than buying new ones.”
