Dealer Quote vs Bank/Broker: Which Car Loan Is Actually Cheaper?

Compare the two quotes using the actual amount financed, rate, fees, term and balloon. A lower weekly repayment can be more expensive overall if the balloon is larger, the term is longer or more fees are capitalised.

Quick answer: Compare the two quotes using the actual amount financed, rate, fees, term and balloon. A lower weekly repayment can be more expensive overall if the balloon is larger, the term is longer or more fees are capitalised.

Questions borrowers commonly ask

  • The broker says $360 a week — how does that become $93,600 overall?
  • The dealer has 1.88% finance but thousands in fees — is it still cheaper?
  • Dealer finance has a balloon and the bank loan does not — how do I compare them?

Use the existing GPS offer tool

Enter the same vehicle amount into the existing car-loan offer comparison calculator and make sure every fee and balloon is entered.

First make the vehicle price identical

If one offer is attached to a higher drive-away price or worse trade-in, finance-only comparison is incomplete.

Why weekly figures mislead

Weekly payment is a cash-flow measure, not a total-cost measure. Compare both.

Decision / financeability lens **Stronger** - Same vehicle price - All fees entered - Balloon included - Total repayments compared **Needs closer assessment** - Different repayment frequencies - Promotional rate - GFV conditions **Warning sign** - Only weekly payment compared - Amount financed unexplained - Vehicle price changes between offers

Check car-loan options.

KK Neelamraju — Founder, GPS Finance Group

KK is a finance and credit professional with more than 20 years of lending and credit experience.

General information only. Approval, pricing, fees, income treatment and vehicle eligibility depend on the lender, borrower circumstances and contract.

Frequently asked questions

Does the calculator show statutory comparison rate?

No; it compares the cash-flow inputs you enter.

Why can lower repayment cost more?

Balloon, term and fees.

Should dealer/broker fees be included?

Yes.

What if car prices differ?

Compare that separately.

Is it a credit quote?

No.

Sources and verification

Related GPS Finance resources

Compare the two quotes

Compare two car-loan offers

InputOffer AOffer B
Amount financed ($)
Rate % p.a.
Term (months)
Balloon ($)
Upfront / financed fees ($)

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