Car OTD Calculator FAQ
Answers about out-the-door price, down payments, trade equity, tax assumptions, loan estimates and saved scenarios.
What does out-the-door mean?
It is the complete vehicle purchase amount after the negotiated price, applicable discounts or rebates, taxes and required or selected fees. Financing interest is a later cost and is not part of the purchase total.
Why is the down payment separate?
Cash down changes how much must be financed. It does not change the underlying purchase amount charged by the dealer.
How is trade equity calculated?
Subtract the lender payoff from the trade allowance. A positive result reduces what must be financed; a negative result increases cash due or the next loan.
Does every state reduce tax for a trade?
No universal assumption is safe. Use the switch only when the written quote or official state guidance supports the treatment.
Are rebates taxed before or after the discount?
That treatment varies. The calculator offers a switch so the user can match the actual transaction rather than accepting a hidden default.
Does the Loan Lab include insurance?
No. It estimates principal and interest for a fixed-rate loan. Insurance, maintenance, fuel, registration renewals and parking belong in a separate ownership budget.
Can I save a deal?
Yes. Save Scenario stores the OTD inputs in local browser storage on the current device. It does not create an account.
How should I verify state fees?
Use the state lookup page to reach official motor-vehicle services, then compare those requirements with the dealer’s itemized buyer’s order.