CalcHub

Auto Loan Calculator

Calculate your monthly car payment, total loan cost, and full amortization schedule. Switch between Total Price mode (enter vehicle price → get monthly payment) and Monthly Payment mode (enter desired payment → find max vehicle price).

Auto Loan — Total Price

Enter the vehicle price to calculate your monthly payment and total loan cost.

Vehicle Price
The total sticker price of the vehicle
Down Payment
Amount paid upfront to reduce the loan
Trade-in Value
Value of your current vehicle used as credit
Sales Tax
State/local sales tax rate on the vehicle
Fees
Document, title, registration, and other fees
Interest Rate
Annual interest rate (APR) of the auto loan
Loan Term
Duration of the auto loan
Rebate
Cash rebate offered by the manufacturer

About Auto Loans

How Auto Loans Work

An auto loan is a secured loan used to purchase a vehicle. The car serves as collateral, and you repay the loan in fixed monthly installments over a term of 24–84 months. Interest is calculated on the outstanding balance each month.

Typical Loan Terms

Common loan terms are 36, 48, 60, 72, or 84 months. Shorter terms mean higher monthly payments but less total interest. Longer terms reduce monthly payments but increase the total cost of the vehicle.

Down Payment & Trade-in

A larger down payment or trade-in value reduces the loan principal, lowering both monthly payments and total interest. Aim for at least 10–20% down on a new car to avoid being "underwater" on the loan.

Dealer vs. Direct Lending

Getting pre-approved through a bank or credit union before visiting a dealership gives you negotiating leverage. Dealer financing is convenient but may carry higher rates. Compare both options before signing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most lenders approve car loans for scores of 600 or above, but the best rates (below 5%) typically require a score of 720 or higher. Scores below 580 may still qualify but at significantly higher rates (15–25% or more).