Vehicle Finance Calculator
Play with the numbers. See your monthly repayment, total interest, and how different terms or deposits change the picture — instantly.
Your deal
Adjust the sliders or type a value.
Default 12.5% (prime + small margin). Your actual rate depends on your credit profile, age of vehicle, and amount being financed.
Lump sum due at end of the term. Lowers monthly payments, increases total cost. Available for newer vehicles only.
R 1 208 added to the loan amount.
Estimated monthly repayment
Loan amount
R 406 208
Total interest
R 173 209
Total cost
R 640 184
Balloon due
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Compare your options
See how term length and deposit change your payment.
| Term | Monthly | Total interest |
|---|---|---|
| 24m | R 19 436 | R 54 991 |
| 36m | R 13 808 | R 83 001 |
| 48m | R 11 016 | R 112 048 |
| 54m | R 10 092 | R 126 958 |
| 60m | R 9 358 | R 142 122 |
| 66m | R 8 761 | R 157 540 |
| 72m selected | R 8 266 | R 173 209 |
| 84m | R 7 499 | R 205 291 |
Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates only and is not a quote or credit offer. Actual rates, fees and instalments are subject to credit assessment and finance house terms. Calculations use NCA-aligned fee caps (R 1 208 initiation, R 69/month bank service fee) plus a R 150/month admin buffer.
Vehicle finance calculator — FAQ
Straight answers about rates, deposits, balloons and fees in South Africa.
How accurate is this vehicle finance calculator?
The calculator uses standard South African amortisation with NCA-aligned fee caps (R1,207.50 initiation, R69/month bank service fee) plus a R150/month admin buffer. It gives a realistic estimate — your final instalment depends on the rate the finance house offers after credit assessment.
What interest rate should I use?
The default of 12.5% is a typical prime-linked starting point for South African vehicle finance in 2026. Your actual rate depends on your credit profile, the age of the vehicle, the amount financed, and the finance house. Applicants with strong credit can qualify below prime; higher-risk profiles may pay prime + 3% or more.
Should I take a balloon payment?
A balloon (residual) payment lowers your monthly instalment but leaves a lump sum owing at the end of the term. It's only available on newer vehicles. Balloons work well if you plan to trade the car in before the term ends — but you pay more interest overall and need a plan for the final lump sum.
How much deposit should I put down on a car in South Africa?
There is no legal minimum, but 10–20% is a healthy target. A bigger deposit lowers your monthly instalment, reduces total interest paid, and improves your chances of approval — especially on older vehicles or higher amounts.
What is the maximum term for vehicle finance in South Africa?
Most South African finance houses offer terms up to 72 months (6 years). Longer terms mean lower monthly instalments but significantly more interest paid over the life of the loan.
What fees are included in my monthly instalment?
The instalment shown includes the loan repayment, the R69/month bank service fee (NCA-capped), and a R150/month admin buffer. The R1,207.50 once-off initiation fee is optionally added to the principal. Not included: comprehensive insurance, tracking, or optional extras like warranty products.
Can I apply for vehicle finance through Virtual 5 after using the calculator?
Yes. Virtual 5 has 20+ years of accredited motor industry experience and is a registered Financial Services Provider (FSP34). Once you're comfortable with the numbers, you can apply online and one of our finance specialists will source the best rate across multiple lenders.