It’s no joy to pay money for expensive car repairs, but they comprise an essential part of what keeps your car running and you safe on the road. But if you don’t have an emergency fund, the repair costs, including replacement parts and labor fees, can easily hurt your wallet.
For this reason, many satisfied extended warranty owners provide glowing CarShield reviews. They attest that getting a car protection plan is the best solution for unexpected mechanical and performance problems. It’s great to have this on top of car insurance, which covers repairs for accidents.
But if you’re not ready with vehicle protection plans and have no savings for repairs, you will undoubtedly stress over how to get your car fixed. What can you do when you don’t have the money for repairs? Fortunately, all hope is not lost as you still have some options.
Speak With the Mechanic
It would help to speak to your mechanic to understand the problem. Perhaps, there’s a less expensive fix or a cheaper alternative. Maybe you can still drive the car and delay the repairs for a few months so you can take on extra jobs to cover the costs.
For example, the check engine light turns on with a faulty oxygen sensor. But the vehicle is still drivable, letting you put off the replacement until you save money. Still, delaying it is not the most optimal solution because you could miss other car issues and fail an emission test.
Perhaps, you can ask the mechanic about promotions or discounts. Other options include in-house financing, as some repair shops partner with lending firms and offer flexible terms. Negotiating may create a favorable situation for you.
Consider Getting a Second Opinion
If you’re not confident with the initial car diagnostics, go for a second opinion. Your relationship with a mechanic hinges on trust, so finding a place you’re comfortable with matters. When something feels off, a second opinion can give you peace of mind. Cars are complex machinery, so licensed mechanics may offer different fixes.
But only go with this option if you can get free diagnostics and initial consultation. Otherwise, you may end up paying two service fees. For best results, request quotes from different places after shopping around. Looking for the best options will allow you to make a better decision.
Apply for a Personal Loan
Consider a personal loan if you’re desperate for cash to pay for car repairs and have a good credit score. This will allow you to fix the car, pay your mechanic, and stretch out the payment schedule to easily pay the monthly fees.
Numerous online lending firms offer the same-day release of money when you file the application. Here are some things to consider:
- Check if you can afford the monthly payments
- Find out the interest rate (variable or fixed)
- Ascertain the payment schedule
- Research if it will affect your credit score
- Ask if there are loan fees
Check Out Used Car Components
When you’ve got a sky-high car repair bill, lower it by opting for used car components that are significantly cheaper than brand-new ones. It’s akin to buying a new car; the price depreciates by 20% when you leave the dealership. Used parts will significantly reduce your bill.
Also, these parts have been reconditioned with a lot of life left. Ask your mechanic to use these parts; if he says no, you can find one who will. Just make sure you discuss warranty and workmanship guarantees if you choose this option.
Sell Personal Effects
Consider selling personal items on eBay, FB Marketplace, or Craigslist to raise funds for car repairs. You can also hold a garage sale to sell stuff you don’t use. It can generate money fast and help you declutter your home. You can include these in your sale:
- Jewelry
- Bags
- Clothes
- Electronics
- Workout equipment
Seek Assistance From Close Family and Friends
Another option is to seek help from close family and friends. They could easily sympathize with your plight. The worst they could do is say no, but their spare cash can set you on your way to completing your car payments. Just make sure you do the following to avoid damaging your relationship:
- Get things in writing
- Pay on time
- Leave a collateral
Use a Low APR Credit Card
Putting car repairs on your credit card may be the only choice if you’re out of options. But think of this as a last resort, especially with a high interest rate. But if you have zero or low-interest APR on a new card, you can charge it. Just refrain from using the card on flippant purchases you don’t need.
Stay diligent with payments or you can get into a sticky situation if you let your credit debt accumulate. It will also help to check whether you can collect rewards points or rebates.
Do-it-yourself
If you’re a handyman, you can consider doing the car repairs yourself to avoid hefty labor fees and expensive parts. But if you’re not confident in your skills, skip this choice; watching tutorial videos is not enough to get your car up and running. You may even end up compromising your safety.
To avoid undue pressure of a vehicle breakdown, plan your finances. Consider a car protection plan to prepare for any eventuality. And make it a point to save a part of your paycheck. Deposit this right away to build an emergency fund. When you’re financially prepared, you don’t have to rely on high-interest loans because you have a buffer and can readily stay afloat in times of need.
Hey, this is Johny Sehgal. I am the owner and caretaker at Finance Jungle. I completed my education in BSC and now heading towards the digital marketing industry. I usually have interests in reading, playing games and watching movies. I also love to write content based on quality information. The main motive of mine is to provide the top and best quality information to my readers. Finance Jungle is the blog for the same.
