Car Loan Calculator
Enter the price, down payment, trade-in and rate to see your monthly payment and the full cost of financing — sales tax included.
Estimates only. Excludes title, registration, dealer fees and any rebates, which vary by state and seller.
Frequently asked questions
How is sales tax handled on a car loan?
Sales tax is calculated on the taxable price, which is the sticker price minus any trade-in value (most US states do not tax the trade-in). The tax is added to the amount you finance, so it raises both your loan balance and your monthly payment unless you cover it with your down payment.
What is the difference between total loan payments and total cost?
Total loan payments is just the principal and interest you pay back to the lender (monthly payment × term). Total cost adds your down payment on top, which is the actual cash you part with to drive the car off the lot and pay it off.
Should I put more money down?
A larger down payment shrinks the loan, lowers your monthly payment and reduces total interest — and it can help you qualify for a better rate. Trade-in equity works the same way. The calculator shows exactly how each dollar of down payment changes your numbers.
Why does a longer term cost more?
Stretching the loan to 72 or 84 months lowers the monthly payment but keeps interest accruing for longer, so you pay more in total. It can also leave you “upside down” — owing more than the car is worth — for most of the loan.