Car Loan Calculator
Estimate your monthly car payment including down payment, trade-in and sales tax — and the total cost of financing.
Your numbers
Monthly payment
$650
Amount financed
$32,450
Total interest
$6,564
Total cost (with down)
$44,014
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See refinance ratesThis car loan calculator shows the monthly payment on an auto loan after your down payment and trade-in, with sales tax rolled into the amount financed. Adjust the price, term and APR to see how the payment and total interest change.
Dealerships like to negotiate on the monthly payment — but a low monthly payment can hide a long term and thousands in extra interest. Focus on the amount financed and the total interest, not just the number per month.
- In most US states, sales tax is charged on the price minus your trade-in — which is why a trade-in can lower your tax, too.
- Longer auto terms (72–84 months) shrink the payment but you can end up owing more than the car is worth.
- A bigger down payment lowers both the loan and the interest you pay.
? Questions fréquentes
Is sales tax included in the car payment?
Yes. This calculator adds sales tax (on the price minus trade-in, as most US states apply it) to the amount financed, then computes the monthly payment on that total.
How does a trade-in affect the payment?
Your trade-in value reduces both the amount you finance and, in most states, the taxable amount — so it lowers the payment and the sales tax.
What term should I choose?
Shorter terms cost more per month but far less in total interest and reduce the risk of negative equity. Compare the total interest across terms, not just the monthly payment.
CostTrek provides general information, not financial advice. Results are estimates based on the figures you enter; your actual rate, taxes and insurance will vary. Confirm details with a qualified lender or advisor.