Auto Loan Calculator
Estimate your monthly car payment, total interest and financed amount using the vehicle price, down payment, trade-in, taxes, fees, rate and loan term.
Your details
Estimated car payment
How to use this auto loan calculator
- 1
Enter the vehicle price, down payment and trade-in value.
- 2
Add your local sales tax, estimated fees, APR and loan term.
- 3
Review the monthly payment, total interest and payment-by-payment amortization schedule.
Understanding your auto loan estimate
The amount financed starts with the vehicle price, sales tax and fees, then subtracts your down payment and trade-in. A longer term usually lowers the monthly payment but increases total interest, while a larger down payment reduces both. Compare a general borrowing scenario with the loan calculator, or use the savings calculator to plan a larger down payment.
| Payment | Starting balance | Interest | Principal | Ending balance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $30,250 | $164 | $428 | $29,822 |
| 2 | $29,822 | $162 | $430 | $29,392 |
| 3 | $29,392 | $159 | $433 | $28,959 |
| 4 | $28,959 | $157 | $435 | $28,524 |
| 5 | $28,524 | $155 | $437 | $28,087 |
What affects your car payment
Purchase price
A lower negotiated vehicle price reduces the financed balance before interest is applied.
APR and term
A lower APR or shorter term reduces total interest, although a shorter term raises the monthly payment.
Upfront equity
Cash down and trade-in value reduce the amount you need to finance.
Worked examples
Typical new car
$35,000 price, $5,000 down, $3,000 trade-in, 7% tax and $800 fees at 6.5% for 5 years
About $592 per month before lender-specific charges
Shorter term
The same balance paid over 3 years
Higher monthly payment but substantially less total interest
Frequently asked questions
How is the amount financed calculated?
We add sales tax and fees to the vehicle price, then subtract your down payment and trade-in value. The financed amount never goes below zero.
Does a trade-in reduce sales tax?
Rules vary by location. This estimate applies tax to the full vehicle price, so confirm your local trade-in tax treatment with the dealer or tax authority.
Is a longer auto loan term cheaper?
It can lower the monthly payment, but you usually pay more interest over the life of the loan and may owe more than the car is worth for longer.
Does this include insurance or fuel?
No. The result estimates loan payments only. Add insurance, fuel, maintenance and registration separately when building your car budget.
Is this calculator a lender quote?
No. It is a planning estimate. Your lender determines the final APR, taxes, fees and approved terms.
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Disclaimer
CalcPilot's calculations are estimates for planning purposes only. They are not financial, legal, or tax advice. Consult a qualified professional before acting on any result. Review our calculation methodology and full disclaimer.