How to Cover Your Car Repair Bill

Unplanned auto repairs are unfortunately a reality for all vehicle owners. AAA estimates that the average car repair can be as much as $500 to $600, with some more severe cases like problems with the engine or transmission costing in the thousands to fix.

If you’re not financially prepared to cover these repairs, then it could leave you grounded or dependent on others for transportation. Fortunately, there are several ways to finance auto repair expenses that will have you back on the road in no time. Here are a few popular options to try:

Credit cards

Charging something to your credit card is an obvious way to pay for it immediately. However, unless you cover the bill when it comes around the following month, then it will become part of the revolving balance and start accruing high interest.

So, be strategic and first check if your credit card has any 0% APR promos. This will allow you to break up your payment over the next 6 to 12 months and not be charged any interest. Even if one isn’t advertised, call up your credit provider and see if one is available.

Installment loans

When you need a relatively small amount of cash in a hurry, a personal loan like an installment loan can be a great option. Installment loans are often unsecured, meaning you won’t have to put up collateral such as your vehicle or home. You can receive a lump sum of money and pay it back in fixed monthly payments over time.

If your credit history is in decent shape, then you should have no problem qualifying for a few thousand dollars. Even if it’s not, you can ask a family member or friend to be a co-signer or look for lenders will less strict credit score requirements. Installment loans are available from a variety of sources. You can apply for installment loans online and even get the money you need deposited into your bank account the next day.

Traditional loans

Just like any other time you need money, you can always reach out to a bank or credit union and apply for a traditional-style loan. These are personal loans with reasonable interest rates and repayment terms. However, they are usually secured, so it would mean providing something of collateral. One example is a home equity loan. This is where an applicant takes their equity (the money they’ve built up in their home) and converts it into a lump sum of money or line of credit.

Cash advances

Another way to get cash in a hurry is to apply for a cash advance. With these loans, these lenders give you funds to tide you over until your next payday. You’ll typically repay this loan in two to four weeks, when you get your paycheck. Cash advances also come with more lenient application requirements, so people with poor or no credit history can qualify. But keep in mind that these loans can come with higher interest rates, so make sure you have a repayment plan in place before applying.

The bottom line

Don’t feel like you have to put off fixing your car because you can’t cover the expense. By using strategies like paying with a credit card or taking out an installment loan, you’ll be able to get the money you need to repair your vehicle and get back on the road in no time.