US Auto Loan Calculator

Calculate your car loan repayments with US-specific features

How to Use How It Works

US Auto Loan Calculator

Vehicle Information

What this is: The total price you're paying for the vehicle (after dealer discounts, before rebates, trade-in, or down payment).

How much to put down: Typically 10-20% of vehicle price. More down = lower monthly payments and less interest. Use savings or trade-in equity.

Fees & Taxes

Where to find: Check your state DMV, dealer paperwork, or online for local sales tax rates. Some states have city/county add-ons.

What it covers: Dealer's cost for paperwork, processing, and compliance. Ask your dealer for the exact amount.

Where to find: State DMV, dealer paperwork, or online. Varies by state and vehicle type.

Loan Terms

How to get your rate: Check with your bank, credit union, or online lenders. APR includes interest and fees as required by TILA.

How to choose: Shorter terms = higher payments but less total interest. Longer terms = lower payments but more total interest. Consider your budget and goals.

Extra Payments (Optional)

How to choose: Select how often you want to make extra payments. More frequent payments reduce total interest paid.

How it helps: Additional amount you plan to pay each month. Reduces loan term and total interest. Example: $50 extra/month can save hundreds in interest.

When to use: Single additional payment (bonus, tax refund, etc.) applied to first payment. Immediately reduces principal balance and total interest.

US Auto Loan Features

  • TILA Compliant: Truth in Lending Act compliance
  • APR Calculation: Includes all fees and interest
  • State Tax Rates: Pre-loaded sales tax rates
  • Dealer Fees: Processing and documentation fees
  • Trade-in Value: Reduce your loan amount
  • Extra Payments: See payoff acceleration
  • Amortization: Complete payment schedule

Important US Regulations

  • APR must be disclosed under TILA
  • Dealer fees vary by state
  • Sales tax rates differ by location
  • Prepayment penalties may apply
  • Credit score affects APR
Important Information: Disclaimer: This calculator is provided for general information only and does not consider your personal circumstances, credit history, or financial situation. It is not financial advice. You should review your lender's Truth in Lending disclosure and seek independent professional advice before making any decisions.
* We are not a lender, credit provider, or financial advisor. This calculator is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Rates, fees, and charges are subject to change. APR and fees vary by lender and state—check with your lender for current rates.
Important: All figures are estimates based on information you provide. Actual loan terms, rates, and fees will vary by lender and individual credit profile.

US Auto Loan Calculator: Your Complete Guide to Car Financing

Understanding Auto Loans in the United States

When purchasing a vehicle in the United States, understanding your auto loan options is crucial for making informed financial decisions. Our US Auto Loan Calculator provides comprehensive calculations that comply with the Truth in Lending Act (TILA), ensuring you have accurate information about your car financing.

Key Components of Your Auto Loan

  • Vehicle Purchase Price: The total cost of your vehicle before any trade-in or down payment
  • Down Payment: The initial amount you pay upfront, typically 10-20% of the vehicle price
  • APR (Annual Percentage Rate): The total cost of borrowing, including interest and fees
  • Loan Term: The length of your loan, usually 36-84 months
  • Sales Tax: State and local taxes that vary by location
  • Dealer Fees: Processing and documentation fees charged by the dealership

How to Use This Auto Loan Calculator

Our calculator helps you estimate monthly payments, total interest costs, and the complete cost of your auto loan. Simply enter your vehicle price, down payment, APR, and loan term to get instant results. The calculator also accounts for trade-in values, sales tax, and dealer fees to provide a comprehensive financial picture.

Benefits of Using Our Auto Loan Calculator

  • Accurate Calculations: TILA-compliant calculations with all fees included
  • State-Specific Tax Rates: Pre-loaded sales tax rates for all US states
  • Trade-in Integration: Factor in your current vehicle's value and payoff
  • Extra Payment Planning: See how additional payments affect your loan term
  • Complete Amortization Schedule: Detailed payment breakdown for the entire loan

Auto Loan Tips for US Buyers

Before applying for an auto loan, consider these important factors:

  • Check your credit score and work to improve it before applying
  • Shop around for the best APR from multiple lenders
  • Consider making a larger down payment to reduce monthly payments
  • Factor in additional costs like insurance, maintenance, and fuel
  • Understand the difference between dealer financing and bank loans

Understanding APR and TILA Compliance

The Annual Percentage Rate (APR) is a crucial metric that includes both interest and fees, making it easier to compare loan offers. Under the Truth in Lending Act, lenders must disclose the APR, helping consumers make informed decisions about their auto financing.