Calculate Your Car Loan Payment Budget
Buying a car can be a daunting task no matter how good your credit score is, and if you're a first time buyer, have a short credit history, or maybe even a few credit challenges, it can be downright stressful. Here are a few financing tips to make your car-buying experience as easy as possible.
FINANCING TIPDetermine your car payment according to your monthly income
Smart Financing Tips
- Choose a car that fits needs and your budget.
Your Sales Consultant can help you fill out a guest sheet to determine what vehicles will work best for you. You can also get an average car payment estimate with our online financing calculators.
- Maximize your down payment.
Increasing your down payment lowers your monthly payment, lowers the total interest you will pay, and can improve your offer and chance of approval.
- Estimate your trade.
Know how much equity you have in your current vehicle, if you’re planning on trading it in, to get a better understanding of your total purchase. If you're not sure, Go Auto can give you a free appraisal of your current vehicle, and even contact your current financing company to help you determine your total equity. To get an idea for the approximate value of your trade, use the Value my trade tool. Go Auto is able to offer top value for your trade because we have a massive distribution network with over 14 dealerships in Edmonton targeted across 25 manufacturers. We can get your used vehicle in front of highly qualified buyers.
- Be accurate.
Provide accurate and thorough information on your application.
Affordability Suggestions for your Car Loan
Most customers use some form of car financing to complete their vehicle purchase. The following information can help you determine what car payment you can afford each month, and how to use that to help with your vehicle selection.
The rule of thumb from most financial institutions is to spend no more than 15% of your gross monthly income (GMI) on your car payment. For example, if you make $2,000 a month you should spend no more than $300 on your car payment, and if you make $4000 your payment should be $600 or less per month. Monthly payments normally range from $20 - $25 per $1,000 financed.