Car Loan Payment Calculator
Understanding auto loan payments helps you make smart financing decisions. Calculate fixed monthly payments using the French amortization method, where your payment stays constant while the principal you pay increases each month. Free, instant, and accurate for 2026.
When to use this calculator
- Calculate monthly car loan payments quickly
- Compare loan terms and interest rates
- Validate loan calculations before financing
- Educational reference for finance students
- Personal finance planning and decision-making
Example Calculation
- $15,000, 60 months, 12%
- ~$334
How it works
1 min readHow Car Loan Payments Work
The French amortization method is the most common system for auto loans. Your monthly payment stays fixed, but the breakdown of principal and interest changes each month — early payments have more interest, later payments have more principal.
How to Calculate
This calculator applies the standard formula with your inputs, checking for realistic values and alerting you to unusual amounts.
The French Method Explained
Important Notes
This calculator provides estimates for reference. For critical financial decisions, consult with a loan officer or financial advisor. Values are current to 2026.
Frequently asked questions
What is French amortization?
French amortization means you pay a constant monthly amount, but the portion going toward principal grows each month while interest portion shrinks.
How is my monthly payment calculated?
The formula is C = V × i(1+i)^n/((1+i)^n-1), where V is the loan amount, i is the monthly interest rate, and n is the number of months.
What's the difference between APR and APY?
APR is the annual interest rate (what you enter). APY accounts for compound interest. APY = (1+APR/12)^12 - 1.
Can I pay off my loan early?
Yes. Early payoff reduces your total interest paid. Check with your lender about prepayment penalties.
What's the difference between constant payment and constant principal?
French method: constant payment, growing principal. German method: constant principal, shrinking payment. Most auto loans use French.
Is this calculator free?
Yes, all our calculators are free and require no registration or sign-up.
Are the results accurate?
Results are estimates using standard formulas validated internationally. For loan origination, verify with your lender.
Is my data saved or shared?
No. All calculations happen in your browser. We don't store or send your data to any server.