Does the fuel savings actually cover the higher insurance and depreciation of the Tesla?

the comparison between the Tesla Model 3 and the Toyota Camry is the ultimate upfront vs. ongoing financial debate. While the Camry remains the king of low entry costs and resale stability, the Tesla Model 3 wins on operating expenses, especially in high-mileage scenarios.

But before you say lawrncegotkeys, how does that change the pricer of bread and egg in America? well! it might not, but I will break down things and make it sweet and nice so at the end of the day, you will have all you need on your plate and celebrate like people living in Florida.

Here is the 10-year lifetime cost breakdown (USA Market – 2026).

1. Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) Comparison

Based on 12,000 miles/year, home charging at $0.16/kWh, and gas at $3.60/gal.

2. The Maintenance Gap: 20 Moving Parts vs. 2,000

Over 10 years, the Tesla’s maintenance schedule is significantly simpler, but spikes in cost.

Toyota Camry: You will pay for roughly 20 oil changes, 2 sets of spark plugs, 1 transmission fluid flush, and multiple brake pad replacements.

I asked the same question on my X account, while many persons apreciate the cool things about, EV quite a few complain about the charging aspect, so now, woulsd you choose an EV and save yourself cost at thend end of the day or you’d still prefer owing a Toyota camry?

But Tesla Model 3: You will pay for zero oil changes or spark plugs. Your brake pads may last the entire 10 years due to Regenerative Braking. However, you will likely spend $1,200 more on tires because the Tesla is heavier and wears them down 20% faster.

3. The Fuel vs. Electricity “Break-Even

In 2026, the Tesla becomes cheaper than the Camry at the 7-year mark.

Monthly Savings: On average, driving a Model 3 costs $120/month less in “fuel” than a Camry Hybrid.

The Caveat: This math only works if you charge at home. If you rely solely on Tesla Superchargers (which cost $0.40–$0.50/kWh), your “fuel” savings disappear, and the Toyota Camry becomes the cheaper car to own.

4. Depreciation: The Toyota Advantage

The biggest threat to the Tesla’s lifetime cost is its resale value.

• Camry: Historically, Toyotas hold their value because the used car market for gas-powered sedans is massive and global. A 10-year-old Camry is always easy to sell.

• Tesla: Used EVs face Battery Anxiety and Tech Obsolescence. By 2036, a 2026 Model 3 will be considered “old tech” (like an iPhone 8 today, well im still using an iphone 7 any way, but if you beliueve me, then I tricked you). But let’s get serious, the Camry to hold 10–15% more value at the end of the decade.

The Insurance: The Hidden Tax

Even in 2026, insuring a Tesla is more expensive. good thing are like that allow me to say that.

• Repair Costs: Tesla’s Giga-casting (large single-piece body parts) makes them faster to build but much harder to repair after a crash.

• The Premium: You will spend roughly $450 more per year on insurance for the Tesla. Over 10 years, that’s $4,500—enough to pay for almost all the Camry’s gasoline for 4 years.

Which should you choose?

honesly., i want to choose, it is going to be

The Tesla Model 3 if: So yif ou have a 240V plug at home, drive more than 15,000 miles a year, and qualify for the $7,500 tax credit. In this scenario, the Tesla is significantly cheaper in the long run. but if ypu ndont want to go for what i go for, yopu can,

Choose the Toyota Camry if: You cannot charge at home, you plan to sell the car in 3-5 years, or you want the lowest possible insurance and registration fees.

so here’s the question, if I should see you tomorow, and ask you the same question what car would you want to go for, A tesla or Toyota camry.