How to Calculate Car Payment
What is Car Payment?
Calculates monthly loan payment from purchase price, interest rate, and loan term. Helps evaluate affordability and financing options.
Formula
Loan amount = purchase price - down payment
Step-by-Step Guide
- 1Loan amount = purchase price - down payment
- 2Monthly rate = annual rate ÷ 12
- 3Formula: payment = P × (r × (1+r)^n) ÷ ((1+r)^n - 1)
- 4Add taxes, insurance, registration
Worked Examples
Input
$25k, 60mo, 5%
Result
$472/mo
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✕Only looking at monthly payment, ignoring total interest paid
- ✕Not including insurance and maintenance in affordability analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
What down payment percentage is standard?
Typically 10-20%; 20% avoids PMI; more down payment reduces monthly cost.
How does interest rate affect payment?
Each 1% rate increase adds $15-20/month per $10k borrowed; rate critical to total cost.
Ready to calculate? Try the free Car Payment Calculator
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