Need Car Repair? How to Pay and Prep for Car Trouble
Car Repair
Some 95% of American households own at least one automobile. Cars are essential for traveling to work, transporting your children, and buying groceries. Like all things, unfortunately, every car eventually needs to be repaired.
Considering most Americans aren’t mechanics, paying, and preparing for car trouble can be difficult. Make the best of your sticky situation by using these tips.
Get a AAA Membership
Car repair costs are even higher when you’re unrepaired. If you can’t drive your vehicle, paying a tow truck to transport your ride could cost hundreds of dollars.
If you run out of gas while driving, you might overpay a towing company to deliver a few gallons of fuel.
The American Automobile Association (AAA), a non-profit organization, is known for its wide-ranging network of mechanics and motor clubs.
It offers low-cost annual memberships that cover towing, roadside gas fill-ups, tire changes, and more.
Often ranging between $50 and $150, a AAA membership is a great way to prepare for car trouble.
Get a Personal Loan
Personal loans have become wildly popular across the United States in recent years.
Unlike most loans, you don’t have to use personal loans for an agreed-upon purpose. You can use them however you want.
In today’s world, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic hit, many personal loan lenders offer their services online.
Although borrowing to pay for car repairs isn’t ideal, this option is arguably the fastest way to receive financing for your car woes.
Don’t Settle for the First Mechanic You Call
Whether your car is completely broken down or simply making an unexplained noise, the need for car repair can make any reasonable-minded person panic.
To address your vehicular problems, you might rush to the nearest mechanic for help.
Settling on any auto repair shop without shopping around is a big mistake.
No matter where you live, there’s almost certainly multiple auto body repair shops and mechanics near you.
Turn to the Internet or a phonebook for lists of mechanics near you. Call them and get estimates and find out how busy they are.
Look for reviews online, too. Even if your vehicle is broken down, many are willing to tow your vehicle.
Again, never settle for any mechanic without thoroughly researching them.
Find Mechanic Financing Options
In some cases, auto repair shops offer in-house financing. Many more partner with banks to help customers finance car repairs.
If you can’t afford repairs, look around for mechanics that offer to finance. These often come in the form of personal loans and credit cards.
Car troubles are never fun to deal with. With these tips, handling your car’s repair process should be much easier.
Category: Family Finances
