Use a realistic APR
A promotional rate shown in an ad may not be the rate you receive. A preapproval gives you a stronger input.
CAR-AFFORDABILITY CALCULATOR
Set the ceiling before the test drive.
Choose a firm payment limit. DealProof works backward through the loan, tax, fees, down payment, and trade equity to estimate a maximum vehicle price.
02
LIVEEstimated ceiling
Maximum estimated vehicle price$0
- Maximum amount financed
- $0
- Total deal budget after cash/trade
- $0
- Estimated total interest
- $0
- Total of loan payments
- $0
- Vehicle price with 10% cushion
- $0
USE A CUSHION
Estimate assumes fixed-rate financing and tax applied to the vehicle price. Trade tax credits, taxable fees, lender charges, and local rules can change the result.
Turn the estimate into a shopping rule
Keep a cushion
Treat the maximum as a ceiling, not a goal. The built-in 10% cushion leaves room for changing fees and life expenses.
Price ownership too
Get an insurance quote and estimate fuel, tires, service, parking, and repairs before committing.
Common questions
Does the maximum vehicle price include tax and fees?
The calculator starts with the total amount the selected payment can support, adds cash and trade equity, then backs out estimated tax and fixed fees to produce the vehicle-price ceiling.
What if I owe more than my trade is worth?
Enter the trade equity as a negative number. That shortfall reduces the price of the next vehicle that fits the same payment ceiling.
Does this include insurance and maintenance?
No. Insurance, fuel, maintenance, repairs, parking, and future registration costs must be budgeted separately.
Consumer reference: the FTC's financing guide advises buyers to consider the down payment, monthly payment, financing period, APR, add-ons, and total cost.