BrianFerguson

Interesting perspective, especially looking back over that many years. My approach is pretty similar now—I'd rather keep a reliable vehicle longer than chase a new one every few years. Depreciation hits hardest at the beginning, so if the vehicle is dependable and still meets your needs, it's usually the cheaper option. I also try to avoid rolling negative equity into the next loan. It can make upgrading feel easier in the short term, but it often means paying for a vehicle you no longer own. If financing makes sense because of a genuinely low interest rate, that's one thing, but otherwise I'd rather put money toward maintenance and drive the current vehicle longer. It tends to work out better financially over time.