Auto Loan Calculator
Monthly car payment from price, down payment, trade-in, sales tax, rate, and term — with total interest and the true all-in cost. Informational only, not financial advice.
| Total of 60 payments | $36,356.85 |
| Total interest | $6,116.85 |
| All-in cost (down + trade-in + payments) | $40,356.85 |
How to use this tool
- Enter the vehicle price, your down payment, and any trade-in value.
- Set your state's sales tax rate, the loan APR, and the term in months.
- Read the monthly payment, total interest, and the all-in cost of the car.
How it works
Amount financed = price − down payment − trade-in + sales tax (tax is calculated on the price less trade-in, the common treatment in most US states — some states differ). The payment then follows the standard fixed-rate loan formula on that financed amount.
Watch the total-cost line, not just the monthly payment: stretching the term lowers the payment but raises total interest, and dealers often negotiate on payment to hide cost. Assumptions: fixed APR, no fees rolled in. Informational only — not financial advice.
Frequently asked questions
What's a normal auto loan term?
36–72 months is the common range, with 60 being typical. Longer terms mean lower payments but more interest and more time underwater (owing more than the car is worth).
Is sales tax charged on the trade-in?
In most US states, no — tax applies to the price minus your trade-in, which is how this calculator treats it. A few states tax the full price; check your state's rules.
Should I finance through the dealer?
Get a pre-approval from a bank or credit union first, then let the dealer try to beat it. This calculator helps you compare any two offers by total cost rather than monthly payment.