analysts predict new vehicle sales to fall over 3 percent in februaryNew vehicle sales are down through the first six months of 2026, albeit only slightly. However, the larger issue facing automakers as the try to navigate the U.S. market is affordability. The average transaction price for a new vehicle, according to Cox Automotive, currently sits just under $50,000. It's risen by a third during the past few years to this new all-time high. question of the day what lengths will you go to buy a new vehicleWith interest rates elevated, prices higher courtesy of inflation and tariffs (in some instances), consumers are looking for ways to lower their monthly payment. The easiest way to do that is to put more down on your vehicle; however, Americans are shopping monthly payments not a sticker price and the simplest way to cut that number is to extend the term of the car loan. We're all familiar with 48-month and even 60-month loans. However, the 72-month - 6 years - and even 84-month loan have become increasing popular. In fact, 24 percent of new car loans during the second quarter were 84 months, according to Edmunds. The average loan term during the quarter was 70.4 months, up 0.6 months compared to a year ago.AdvertisementAdvertisementWith Independence Day sales in full swing, we ask: How long are you willing to finance a new vehicle for now?[Images: Shutterstock; Stan McNabb Chevrolet]Become a TTAC insider. Get the latest news, features, TTAC takes, and everything else that gets to the truth about cars first by subscribing to our newsletter.