Auto Loan Formula:
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An auto loan from dealers is financing provided directly by the car dealership or through their lending partners. The loan amount is calculated by subtracting your down payment from the Out-the-Door (OTD) price of the vehicle.
The calculator uses the simple formula:
Where:
Explanation: This calculation determines the principal amount you'll need to finance through the dealer's loan program.
Details: Calculating your exact loan amount helps in budgeting, comparing financing options, and negotiating better terms with the dealer.
Tips: Enter the vehicle's OTD price (including all fees) and your planned down payment in USD. Both values must be positive numbers.
Q1: What's included in OTD price?
A: OTD price includes the vehicle price, sales tax, title fees, registration fees, documentation fees, and any other mandatory charges.
Q2: How much down payment should I make?
A: Typically 10-20% of the vehicle price is recommended, but more down payment means lower monthly payments.
Q3: Are dealer loans better than bank loans?
A: Dealer loans may offer convenience and promotions, but always compare rates with banks/credit unions for the best deal.
Q4: What affects my loan approval?
A: Credit score, income, debt-to-income ratio, and loan-to-value ratio are key factors dealers consider.
Q5: Can I negotiate the loan terms?
A: Yes, interest rates and loan terms are often negotiable just like the vehicle price.