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New and used car prices have skyrocketed, forcing consumers to settle for higher monthly payments. Many are also digging deep into their savings accounts to make large down payments. But exactly how much money will you need to put down to secure an auto loan?
Many financial experts suggest 10 to 20 percent. However, it’s vital that you assess your financial situation to come up with a figure that works for your budget.
In the first quarter of 2022, the average down payment on a new vehicle was just over $6,000, according to Edmunds. This is a steep increase of 27 percent from just a year ago and is the highest it has ever been.
The average down payment on used vehicles was lower at $3,574 during the same period. Still, this figure is 7 percent higher than it was a year ago.
Given current market conditions, elevated down payments aren’t surprising. New and used vehicle prices also hit record highs in the first quarter of 2022. Average auto loan amounts were $39,340 and $30,830 for new and used cars, respectively, compared to $35,040 and $23,958 in the fourth quarter of 2021.
Financial experts recommend a down payment of at least 20 percent when financing a new or used vehicle. This amount is a bit steep for many, especially when coupled with the recent spike in new and used car prices. For example, a 20 percent down payment on a $35,000 vehicle is $7,000.
Still, there are benefits to putting such a large amount down. You could boost your approval odds and qualify for more competitive interest rates. Plus, your monthly payments will be lower, and you’ll pay less in interest over the life of the loan.
If you have a hefty amount saved, putting this amount down may not be an issue. Otherwise, it’s not worth emptying your savings account to make a down payment.
You can also trade your current vehicle to get closer to the suggested 20 percent down payment. If not, aim for 10 percent, as this amount is still acceptable to most lenders. Negotiate a fair purchase price and only put down what you can afford.
Some dealers will approve you for financing with little to no down payment, depending on your credit profile — but these loans typically come with a higher interest.
If you’re lucky enough to qualify for a 0 percent APR auto loan without putting money down, it may not be a bad idea. You could invest the funds to grow your money instead of applying it to a down payment. These loans typically require excellent credit.
Still, there’s a significant risk to keep in mind. If your car is totaled and you don’t have gap insurance, you may have to pay to settle the difference between what the insurance company is willing to pay your lender and what you owe.
Bankrate’s down payment calculator can help you estimate potential cost savings by putting cash down or trading your current vehicle. You’ll need the purchase price, loan term, interest rate, tax rates (federal and state) and the minimum and maximum down payment amounts to get started.
To illustrate, assume you’re approved for a four-year, $25,000 auto loan at 6 percent and can afford to put between $2,500 (or 10 percent) and $4,000 (or 16 percent) down. Here’s how you’d use the calculator:
Based on these inputs, the monthly payment with a $2,500 down payment would be $528.41, compared to $493.41 with a $4,000 down payment. By putting more down, you’d save $109.86 per month or $3,773.28 over the life of the loan.
Beyond significant cost savings and lower monthly payments, here are some additional reasons why down payments on car purchases are essential:
Although the average car loan down payment is climbing, you’re not entirely out of luck if you don’t have much cash. Aim for a down payment of at least 10 percent, or work with a lender willing to accept less if you don’t have this amount.
Try to bring something to the table. Even a small down payment may help you secure an auto loan with fair terms and minimize the chances of owing more than your car is worth early in the loan term.
Use our down payment calculator before car shopping to determine price points that work with your desired down payment amount.
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How much is the average down payment on a car? – Bankrate.com
