US auto finance
US auto loan calculator: compare payment, APR, and total cost
Learn how to compare a US auto loan by amount financed, APR, term, monthly payment, and total interest.
Updated August 27, 2026 · 5 min read
Start with the amount you will actually finance
The vehicle price is only the starting point. Sales tax, government fees, dealer fees, and optional add-ons can increase the amount financed, while a down payment and trade-in can reduce it.
Enter the figures from the written offer so your estimated payment reflects the deal you are considering rather than an advertised base price.
A lower payment can still cost more
A longer loan term often lowers the monthly payment but increases the total interest paid. Compare the APR, length of the loan, amount financed, monthly payment, and total loan payments together.
Use two or more scenarios for the same vehicle. This shows whether a payment is lower because the offer is better or because repayment is spread over more months.
Check the finance disclosures and ownership costs
The lender's disclosures should show the amount financed, finance charge, APR, and payment schedule. Check these figures against your calculator result before signing.
Insurance, fuel, maintenance, repairs, registration, and add-ons are not part of the loan payment estimate. Include them when deciding what vehicle cost fits your budget.
Put this guide into practice
Use the related calculators
Put the steps in this guide into practice with a focused calculator, then return here to check an assumption or compare another scenario.
Sources and further reading
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau: Compare auto loan offers
Official guidance to compare APR, interest rate, loan length, amount financed, monthly payment, and total cost.
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau: Auto loan guide
Official worksheet and explanation of amount financed, finance charges, add-ons, and total loan cost.