I am wondering why my federal refund is so much less this year compared to last year. I have not entered my child care costs or my car registration cost

 

Deductions & credits

No one can see your tax return answer question precisely but its many reason why your refund goes down from last year. https://ttlc.intuit.com/replies/3301788

For Child and Dependent Care Credit - The credit is worth anywhere from 20% to 35% of your qualified expenses, up to $3,000 (for one qualifying person) and $6,000 (for two or more qualifying persons). Your percentage depends on your AGI, with the higher percentages applying to lower incomes and vice-versa.
Car registration fee deducted on Schedule A if you itemize. If your Itimise deduction is less then standard, you will not benefit from doing it.