Calculating the deterioration of a vehicle due to normal use involves assessing several factors that contribute to its decline over time. These factors include mileage, environmental conditions, driving habits, and maintenance history. For example, a vehicle driven primarily on rough roads and subjected to frequent short trips will likely experience more rapid deterioration than one used mainly for highway driving and consistently maintained.
Quantifying this degradation is crucial for various purposes, such as determining fair lease terms, evaluating the cost-effectiveness of vehicle ownership, and accurately estimating resale value. Historically, reliance was placed on subjective assessments. However, standardized methods and data analysis now enable more objective and precise estimations, allowing for more equitable transactions and financial planning related to vehicle ownership.