Car Loans

How Much Can I Borrow for a Car Loan? A Practical Guide

  •  
5min
11/8/2025
Nathan Hanna
Director

If you are shopping for a new or used car, one of the first questions you will have is: How much can I actually borrow? The answer depends on several factors, and working with an experienced Perth finance broker can help you find out quickly.

Key Factors That Affect How Much You Can Borrow

  1. Your Income and Expenses: Lenders will look at your monthly income, minus living expenses, to determine how much you can comfortably repay.
  2. Your Credit Score: A good credit history can increase your borrowing power and help you secure lower interest rates.
  3. Loan Term: Longer terms may lower monthly repayments but could increase the total interest paid.
  4. Deposit Size: A larger deposit means you will need to borrow less, making approval easier.
  5. The Vehicle Itself: Lenders often prefer newer vehicles, as they hold value longer.

How a Perth Finance Broker Can Help

A car finance broker in Perth can:

  • Compare options from multiple lenders
  • Calculate your borrowing power accurately
  • Find competitive car loan rates to match your budget

Quick Borrowing Power Estimate

While every lender’s criteria differ, a general rule is you can borrow an amount where your repayments do not exceed 20 to 30 percent of your monthly income. For example:

  • Monthly income: $5,000
  • Comfortable repayment range: $1,000 to $1,500 per month

From here, a broker can run the numbers to show exactly what this translates to in car loans.

Final tip: Do not just focus on the maximum you can borrow. Focus on what is comfortable for your lifestyle. An experienced Perth finance broker can help you secure the right loan amount and avoid financial stress.

Subscribe to Optic Insights

Get industry insights that you won't delete, straight in your inbox.
We use contact information you provide to us to contact you about our relevant content, products, and services. You may unsubscribe from these communications at any time. For information, check out our Privacy Policy.
Nathan Hanna
Director
Nathan has 10 years experience as a finance broker, helping Australians find the right loan. Nathan will work with you to get your next asset or personal finance.

More insights

Finance

Medical & Dental Loans in Perth: Managing Costs Without the Stress

From dental implants to elective surgeries, healthcare costs in Australia can put real pressure on families. Even with private health cover, gaps and upfront costs are common.

Read Article
Finance

Renovation or Personal Loan? Smart Ways to Finance Your Home Upgrade Without a Mortgage

Home upgrades are one of the biggest expenses families face. Whether it’s a new kitchen, a bathroom upgrade, or an outdoor entertainment space, the costs can quickly add up.

Read Article
Finance

Travel Loans vs Credit Cards: How Perth Locals Are Funding Overseas Adventures

With overseas travel back in full swing, more Perth locals are looking at ways to fund their adventures. But what’s the smarter choice – a travel loan or a credit card?Both options can help you get on that plane, but they work very differently.

Read Article