Car Loan Calculator

Use this Auto Loan Calculator to estimate monthly payments, total interest, and loan affordability based on your vehicle price, down payment, loan term, and interest rate. Whether you’re looking to buy a car or refinance an existing auto loan, this tool is tailored for U.S. car buyers and refinancers.

Note: This calculator is primarily for vehicle purchases and car loan refinancing within the United States. International users may still use it but should adjust inputs according to their local tax, insurance, and finance regulations.

🔄 Refinance Car Loan with Confidence

Refinancing a car loan can lead to lower monthly payments, reduced interest costs, or better repayment terms. Use our car loan refinance calculator to:

  • Estimate your new monthly payment

  • Compare current and refinanced interest rates

  • Understand savings over the life of your loan

🟩 Popular refinance scenarios:

  • You have improved your credit score

  • Your original auto loan has a high APR

  • You want to extend or shorten your loan term

💳 Auto Loans in the U.S.

Auto loans are secured loans used to finance car purchases. Borrowers repay the loan principal plus interest, typically over 36 to 84 months. If payments aren’t made, lenders may repossess the car.

🏦 Dealership Financing vs. Direct Lending

When financing your car, you have two major options:

  • Direct Lending: Borrow from a bank or credit union, then shop at dealerships.

  • Dealership Financing: Finance directly through the dealer, usually with a manufacturer’s captive lender.

📊 Tip: Use direct lending to pre-qualify and gain leverage for lower interest rates at the dealership.

🚘 New vs. Used Auto Loan Considerations

  • New car loans may come with 0% APR offers or rebates.

  • Used car loans usually have higher interest rates but lower principal amounts.

  • Consider total ownership cost, including depreciation, insurance, and maintenance.

📉 Vehicle Rebates & Trade-In Adjustments

Our auto loan calculator supports:

  • Cash rebates from manufacturers

  • Trade-in value adjustments

  • Sales tax deductions (based on your U.S. state)

🧮 Example: Trade-in value and state sales tax affect your out-of-pocket cost. The calculator automatically adjusts for these inputs.

🧾 Car Loan Fees & Extra Costs

Fees that can be included in the loan:

  • Sales Tax (varies by state)

  • Registration & Title Fees

  • Destination Fee

  • Documentation Fee

  • Optional: Include or exclude these in the calculator

💼 Auto Loan Strategies

  • Get pre-approved for better bargaining power

  • Compare offers from banks, credit unions, and online lenders

  • Check credit reports to improve your credit score

  • Use refinance to reduce interest or change your term

⚖️ Cash vs. Finance vs. Lease

OptionProsCons
Cash PurchaseNo interest, no monthly paymentsTies up capital
Auto LoanBuild credit, preserve cash flowPays interest
LeaseLower upfront costNo equity, mileage limits

Use our Cash vs. Loan Calculator to compare options.

🚀 Why Use Our Car Loan Calculator?

Refinance Ready — Built-in functions to compare current and refinanced loans
Tax Smart — Adjusts sales tax based on U.S. state
Trade-In & Rebate — Real-world cost insights
Mobile-Friendly — Use it on-the-go from your phone or tablet

📌 How to Refinance a Car Loan (Step-by-Step)

  1. Check your current loan balance and APR

  2. Use this calculator to estimate new payments

  3. Compare lender offers based on your credit

  4. Apply and finalize your new auto loan terms

Try the Calculator Now

Plug in your:

  • Vehicle price

  • Down payment

  • Interest rate

  • Loan term

  • Trade-in value & rebates

And get instant results on your monthly payment, total loan cost, and interest paid.