When Canadians start exploring options for a car loan in Canada, the most common focus tends to be the monthly payment. After all, it’s natural to want something affordable each month. However, one of the most important decisions that directly affects how much you’ll pay over time is the car loan term. While many drivers opt for longer terms to make their payments smaller, choosing a shorter car loan term may actually save you thousands of dollars in the long run. This blog explains why shorter terms can be financially smart, what factors to consider, and how they tie into your broader auto financing strategy.