The Auto Loan APR Trap: Payment Shopping vs Total Cost

Payment is a dial, not a price

Lengthening term lowers payment and often raises total interest. Backend products financed into the note do the same.

Use FeeFriction’s auto loan true-cost calculator to rebuild the deal from price, tax, fees, down payment, APR, and term.

Negotiate the car and the money separately

Mixing “payment goals” with vehicle price obscures both negotiations. Lock the out-the-door price first when you can, then finance math.