10 Hidden Car Costs

Once you have haggled and agreed on a price for buying a car, keep in mind that other costs await you. These are the so-called hidden costs that can make your $25,000 car cost $30,000. Some of these aren't all that "hidden," but they're certainly not included in the price you're quoted for the vehicle itself.

Below are 10 costs beyond the inevitable gas and repairs. The first four are the realities of car ownership. The last several are costs to be aware of and ones you should avoid.

1. Registration and emission fees. These will typically run somewhere between $50 and $500, depending on the state and the vehicle.

2. State sales tax. This is usually added to the cost of the car, and also depends on the state.

3. Insurance. Collision, comprehensive, and liability insurance will vary, depending on a variety of factors, including your choice of insurance carrier, the car you drive, your city and state, your driving history, and the age and driving history of all licensed drivers in your family. You may opt not to carry collision insurance once the car is more than seven or eight years old.