How much should I put down on a car purchase?

How much should you put down on a car?

Experts usually recommend a 20% down payment to:

✅ Offset depreciation 

✅ Show lenders you’re committed 

✅ Lower your monthly payments 

✅ Improve your loan terms

While 20% isn’t a must—some loans allow less or even $0 down—putting more down means you borrow less and reduce the risk of owing more than your car’s worth.

If 20% feels tough, start with what you can comfortably afford—even 10% helps!