Down Payment Decision Calculator

See how much to put down vs. keep invested — for your specific loan

Vehicle

Enter the final negotiated price — after any discounts, rebates, or add-ons.

Trade-In (optional)

Loan Terms

Down Payment

0%
$0 — Finance all —

Investment Assumptions

The cash you don't put down is assumed to be invested. Adjust these to match your situation.

Historical U.S. stock market avg: ~10%/yr. Conservative 70/30 portfolio: ~7%/yr. High-yield savings/CDs: ~4–5%. Past performance doesn't guarantee future results.
Long-term gains (held 1+ yr): 0% under ~$47k income, 15% for most people, 20% for high earners. Use 0% for tax-advantaged accounts (401k, IRA).

Ownership Costs

These are estimates. Adjust them to match the vehicle you're considering.

Broad averages: 65% at 2 yrs, 57% at 3, 49% at 4, 41% at 5, 34% at 6, 28% at 7. Trucks/luxury hold value better; economy sedans and EVs depreciate faster. Check Edmunds or KBB.

Estimates based on AAA and Consumer Reports averages for a typical new vehicle. Covers oil changes, tires, brakes, and routine repairs — not insurance or fuel.

Your Results

Enter a purchase price above to see your estimate

  • Purchase price should be your final negotiated number — after rebates, dealer discounts, and any add-ons.
  • Tax rate based on ZIP code (Illinois only). Verify at tax.illinois.gov
  • Fees assumed: Doc ($377), ERT ($35), Title ($165), Registration ($151). Verify with dealer.
  • Investment return is projected — not guaranteed. Past market performance does not predict future results.
  • Residual value defaults are broad averages. Actual resale value depends on make, model, condition, and market.
  • Maintenance estimates are averages for a new vehicle (AAA/Consumer Reports). EVs, luxury, and high-mileage vehicles vary significantly.
  • Net Financial Position = ending assets (resale + investment) minus total cash out (down payment + payments + maintenance). Negative does not mean the decision was wrong — cars are a necessity, not just a financial asset.
  • This is an estimate only. Consult a financial advisor for personalized advice.