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Car Finance Calculator
Work out exactly what your car will cost you every month. Enter your details below and get a full repayment breakdown including total interest paid.
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This calculator provides an estimate only. Actual repayments may vary depending on your lender, credit profile, initiation fees, and monthly admin fees. Always confirm with your bank or dealer before signing.
How Car Finance Works in South Africa
When you finance a car in South Africa, the bank pays the dealer and you repay the bank in monthly instalments over an agreed term — usually between 48 and 72 months. The amount you repay each month depends on the loan amount, the interest rate, and the term.
A larger deposit reduces the amount you need to finance, which lowers your monthly repayment and the total interest you pay. A balloon payment defers a lump sum to the end of the term, which reduces monthly payments but means you'll owe a large amount when the term ends.
Tips to Reduce Your Car Finance Costs
- Put down the biggest deposit you can afford — it significantly reduces your total interest.
- Choose the shortest term you can comfortably afford — longer terms mean more interest overall.
- Be cautious with balloon payments — you'll still owe that lump sum at the end.
- Shop around for interest rates — different banks offer different rates based on your credit score.
- Negotiate the car price before discussing finance — every rand off the price saves you interest too.