How to Use MoneyGeek’s Auto Loan Calculator
Taking on an auto loan is a significant financial commitment that can impact your budget for years to come. Aside from the monthly payments, you also have to consider interest rates, loan terms and other factors that can affect your overall financial wellbeing.
MoneyGeek’s auto loan calculator can help you navigate this complex landscape. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use it:
Once you've submitted all the necessary information into our auto loan calculator, it will provide a detailed breakdown of your loan. This information is invaluable for comparing different loan options and making a financially sound decision. Here's what you can expect to see:
Monthly payment
This is the amount you'll be required to pay each month over the life of the loan. Knowing your monthly payment helps you assess whether the loan is affordable given your current budget and financial commitments.
Total interest paid
This figure represents the sum of all the interest payments you'll make over the loan term. It's a crucial number to consider because it shows you the cost of borrowing money, separate from the actual price of the car.
Total cost of the loan
This is the sum of the loan amount, interest and any additional fees. It gives you a comprehensive view of the financial commitment you're making, allowing you to evaluate if the loan is truly worth it in the long run.
Amortization schedule
This table breaks down each monthly payment into principal and interest components. The schedule can be eye-opening, revealing how much of your monthly payment actually goes toward reducing the loan balance versus paying off interest.
Why Use an Auto Loan Calculator
Using an auto loan calculator is a proactive approach to understanding the financial implications of your auto loan choices. Our tool offers a range of benefits that go beyond basic number-crunching:
What Is a Good APR for an Auto Loan?
Based on Federal Reserve data, as of August 2023, the average interest rate for auto loans in the U.S. is 7.88% for a 60-month term and 8.12% for a 72-month term. You can use these average rates as a benchmark to evaluate whether you're getting a good deal or if there's room for negotiation.
Securing a good auto loan rate involves multiple factors, including your credit score, which is a key element in determining your eligibility for lower interest rates. Other factors like your loan duration and down payment also play a role. The kind of car you're buying can affect your rate as well; lenders often offer better rates for new cars than for used ones.
How to Lower Your Auto Payments
Lowering your car payments can provide much-needed financial relief, especially if you're juggling multiple financial commitments. Whether you're looking to ease your monthly budget or allocate funds to other priorities, there are several strategies you can employ to reduce your monthly car payments.
REFINANCE THE CAR LOAN
Refinancing involves taking out a new loan to pay off your existing auto loan, ideally at a lower interest rate. This strategy is particularly effective if your credit score has improved since you first took out your car loan. Just make sure to read the fine print for any fees or penalties that might apply.
EXTEND THE LOAN TERM
Lengthening the duration of your loan will spread out the payments, resulting in lower monthly amounts. It’s worth noting, however, that you’ll end up paying more in interest over the life of the loan with this approach. It's a trade-off that could make sense if you need immediate budget relief but understand the long-term implications.
MAKE A LARGE LUMP SUM PAYMENT
If you come into some extra money, like a tax refund or a bonus, consider making a large payment toward your loan principal. This will not only reduce the amount you owe but could also allow you to renegotiate for lower monthly payments. Just check with your lender first to ensure there are no prepayment penalties.
TRADE IN YOUR CAR
If your current vehicle is a high-end model with hefty payments, consider trading it in for a more affordable option. This could significantly lower your monthly payments and might even eliminate the need for a loan altogether if the trade-in value covers the cost of the cheaper car.
NEGOTIATE WITH THE LENDER
Sometimes, a simple conversation with your lender can lead to reduced payments. If you've been a reliable borrower or if market interest rates have dropped, your lender might be willing to adjust your loan terms. Prepare for this discussion by gathering evidence of your good payment history or any changes in market rates.
We answered some frequently asked questions about auto loans to help you gain valuable insight and make an informed decision.
