Vehicle affordability calculator
How much car can you afford?
Aside from buying a home or paying for a college education, buying a car is likely one your most expensive purchases. That car payment can be a big part of your monthly budget, which is why it’s so important to know how much you can afford. How much should you spend on a vehicle? We’ve got some tips—and a free auto calculator—to help find the right vehicle budget for you.
How to use our vehicle affordability calculator
Our handy car affordability calculator helps you get a feel for how much to spend based on your ideal monthly payment, down payment and other factors.
Here’s how to get the most out of the calculator:
- Step 1: First, you’ll want to figure out how much money you can realistically put toward a car payment each month. If you’re not sure, a free Dupaco Money Makeover could help you with that!
- Step 2: Enter how much you can pay upfront for your vehicle (your down payment).
- Step 3: Think about how long you’re willing to spend paying off your auto loan and select your ideal loan term.
- Step 4: Enter the interest rate you think you’ll qualify for.
| Loan Program | Term | Annual Percentage Rate (As Low As) 1 |
|---|---|---|
| 2023-25 Model Year | 60 Months | 5.94% APR |
| 2023-25 Model Year | 66 Months | 5.94% APR |
| 2023-25 Model Year | 72 Months | 5.94% APR |
| 2023-25 Model Year | 78 Months | 6.14% APR |
| 2023-25 Model Year | 84 Months | 6.14% APR |
| 2020-22 Model Year | 60 Months | 6.34% APR |
| 2020-22 Model Year | 66 Months | 6.39% APR |
| 2020-22 Model Year | 72 Months | 6.49% APR |
| 2020-22 Model Year | 84 Months | 6.74% APR |
| 2018-19 Model Year | 48 Months | 6.84% APR |
| 2018-19 Model Year | 60 Months | 6.89% APR |
| 2018-19 Model Year | 72 Months | 7.04% APR |
| 2016-17 Model Year | 36 Months | 7.34% APR |
| 2016-17 Model Year | 48 Months | 7.39% APR |
| 2016-17 Model Year | 60 Months | 7.44% APR |
| 2015 Model Year (and older) | 36 Months | 9.84% APR |
| 2015 Model Year (and older) | 48 Months | 9.94% APR |
| Rates are effective as of 1/1/2025. All loans are subject to approval. Rates, terms, and conditions are subject to change. Auto loan payment example for illustrative purposes only: If you borrow $30,000 at a 5.94% annual percentage rate (APR) with a 60-month term, your minimum monthly payment obligation would be $579.08. Over the life of the loan, you will pay $4744.66 in interest. 1 Auto Loan Rates: Loan annual percentage rates (APR) based on member credit qualification and total loan amount. Mini-Max Loans: Add 1% to conventional rates. |
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To get a more detailed estimate, you can also enter how much sales tax you’ll pay based on where you live. And, if you’re trading in a vehicle, you can include the trade-in value. (Hint: You can use a source like Kelley Blue Book to get an idea of how much it’s worth.) Feel free to adjust the parameters to see how different choices impact your vehicle budget!
For more information or to receive assistance with your loan application, give our Consumer Loans department a call at 800-373-7600, ext. 306.
Don't forget this important step
Using an auto calculator to get a feel for what you can afford is a helpful first step. But before you start shopping for a car, it’s a good idea to get pre-approved for your auto loan. This takes your car shopping to the next level. You’ll get one-on-one guidance so you know how much car you can afford.
Once you’re pre-approved, it helps you narrow your choices, saving you time as you shop. Plus, it eliminates any uncertainty of loan approval, so you can focus on finding the right car for you. Once you apply at Dupaco, we’ll connect you with a lender to discuss your budget and financing options.
Don't forget these car costs
Car ownership involves more than just your monthly payment. You’ll want to consider ongoing expenses, like:
- Fueling your adventures: Gas prices can fluctuate, so you’ll want to consider your estimated fuel usage based on your driving habits.
- Staying protected: Car insurance premiums can vary depending on your vehicle, driving record and location.
Get an insurance quote > - Keeping it running: Regular maintenance is key to keeping your car in top shape.
