Auto Loan Calculator
The sticker price is not what you finance. Sales tax, your down payment and your trade-in all change the loan. Enter them all to get the real amount financed, the monthly payment and the total cost of the car including interest.
Results
Formula
How to use this calculator
- Enter the vehicle price and your local sales-tax rate.
- Add the down payment and any trade-in value.
- Enter the rate and term in months, then Calculate.
Worked example
A $30,000 car, $5,000 down, no trade-in or tax, 6% for 60 months.
- Financed: 30,000 − 5,000 = $25,000.
- Payment: about $483.15 a month.
- Interest: 483.15 × 60 − 25,000 ≈ $3,989.
Result: About $483.15 a month, and the car costs roughly $33,989 all-in.
Frequently asked questions
Is sales tax calculated before or after the trade-in?
It depends on the state. Many states tax only the difference after a trade-in; others tax the full price. This calculator taxes the full price — the conservative assumption. Check your state’s rule for an exact figure.
How long a term should I choose?
Shorter terms cost more per month but far less interest overall, and they reduce the risk of owing more than the car is worth. Compare 48, 60 and 72 months here to see the trade-off.
What APR can I expect?
Rates depend on credit score, term, and whether the car is new or used. Enter the actual quote from your lender or credit union for an accurate payment.
Related calculators
Loan Calculator
Calculate the monthly payment and total interest for any loan, and see how an extra monthly payment shortens the loan and saves interest.
FinanceMortgage Calculator
Estimate your monthly mortgage payment including principal, interest, property taxes, homeowners insurance and HOA dues.
FinanceCredit Card Payoff Calculator
Find out how long it takes to pay off a credit card with a fixed monthly payment, or by paying only the minimum.
FinancePay Rate Calculator
Convert an hourly rate to weekly, monthly and annual pay — or a salary back to its hourly equivalent.