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How To Access Emergency Car Repair Assistance Near Me

Written by: Jody Adams
Last updated: January 31, 2024

Regardless of build quality, year model, and state-of-the-art technologies, all vehicles undergo a wear-and-tear cycle. Due to constant use, all mechanical and electrical components of an automobile, such as engine oil filters, brake pads, switches, and batteries, deteriorate. Non-electric cars have an average life span of 150,000 miles or 8 years. 

Aging vehicles require routine maintenance and frequent repairs to be road-safe and functional. However, car repairs are usually expensive, and not everybody can afford them. Fortunately, once you look up "emergency car repair assistance near me," you'd find several options to get financial assistance for auto repairs. Read on to learn more. 

Most Common Car Problems And Their Repair Costs

Personal vehicles are the primary means of transportation for most college students and workers. However, most people need to be aware of vehicles' common problems. Knowing what's wrong with your car is important to acquire the necessary repair services.  

  • Depleted Battery: If you are experiencing problems starting your car, your battery is likely depleted or "discharged." Auto battery replacements could cost anywhere between $50 and $250, depending on the type and quality.
  • Engine Issues: Broken valves or loose seals within an engine's cylinders can result in poor compression of both air and fuel, which often leads to car breakdowns. The average price of a new engine is typically between $4,000 to $7,000.  
  • Worn Out Brake Pads: Ragged brake pads cause longer response times and damage car tires and rotors. Brake pads cost between $100 and $300 per axle, depending on the material.
  • Ignition Coils And Spark Plugs: Older vehicles often require their spark plugs and ignition coils replaced since worn-out plugs and coils cause poor acceleration and stalling. This will usually cost you between $150 to $200.

How To Apply For A Car Repair Grant Near You

How To Apply For A Car Repair Grant Near You

There are government programs and non-profit organizations that provide financial assistance to individuals who are unable to afford car repairs. However, due to limited funding, we recommend applying immediately. 

211 can provide you with the most up-to-date information regarding any government car repair grants available in your area. They can also reference local auto repair shops that provide free emergency car repairs. 

You may contact a community action agency within your county if you need further financial assistance. They provide zero-interest loans and grants to low-income families, unemployed individuals, and those without credit to help pay for necessary car repairs. These agencies also offer transportation assistance services.

Other Ways To Get Financial Assistance For Emergency Car Repairs

Do not worry if certain government-funded programs, such as the Job Access and Reverse Commute (JARC), are unavailable in your area. There are other ways you could obtain enough money to get your car fixed. Several non-profit organizations and charities offer emergency car repair assistance.

Ways To Work

This program provides transportation assistance to individuals requiring a vehicle to work or a job interview. In addition to providing affordable loans to buy a newer vehicle, Ways to Work also offers discounted car repair services and public transport vouchers. 

Lutheran Social Services

The Lutheran Social Services is a nationwide initiative administered by an organization of human service agencies, charities, and local churches. They provide cheap car repairs and referrals to any mechanics near you that offer free repair services. This program also donates used cars to low-income families and disabled individuals.

CARS For Christ

CARS for Christ comprises churches, parishes, religious organizations, and faith-based groups that has free car repairs assistance programs to those in need. However, this program focuses on providing emergency car repair services, including tire changes, oil filter replacements, and fender bender repairs, to young adults, single fathers, and single mothers. 

Local Salvation Army Centers

This program provides regional transportation assistance and free car repairs to veterans, disabled individuals, and low-income households. Some locations also offer free repairs for trucks and other large vehicles, as well as free gasoline vouchers and bus tokens. 

United Methodist Church

Through its several volunteer mechanics and partner associations, this religious organization can provide free car repairs across different local communities. Some ministries also offer free rental services or donate used cars to financially struggling individuals. 

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

Another great option to acquire free emergency repair services for your automobile is through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). However, this program only provides emergency car repair assistance for certain vehicle problems, such as worn-out brake pads, old tires, faulty switches, and oil filter failure.

If you need financial assistance for necessary home repairs, visit this article from Gov Relations on popular non-profits and charities that help with home repairs.

Jody Adams
Jody Adams is an accomplished editor-in-chief with a deep understanding of social care and government benefits issues. With a background in journalism and a master's degree in Public Policy, Jody has spent her career shaping the narrative around social policies and their impact on society. She has worked with renowned publications, effectively bridging the gap between complex policy analysis and public understanding. Jody's editorial expertise ensures that vital information on social care and government benefits reaches a broad audience, empowering individuals to make informed decisions.
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