Since the average price of a modern non-luxury vehicle is at an all-time high of $44,584, most workers and students use public transportation to get to work and school. However, according to the recent assessment report of the American Society of Civil Engineers, U.S. public transport infrastructure is at just D-. They also found that existing transit systems in large cities must be updated and substandard.
With access to quality public transport and needing help to afford new vehicles, low-income families and college students risk losing key life opportunities. Fortunately, multiple programs and initiatives donate quality used cars to those in need. In this article, we'll discuss how you could get help to get a car. Read on to learn more.
What To Look For When Getting A Used Car
When trying to obtain a secondhand vehicle, it is best to inspect it beforehand for any issues or repairs. Used cars are more affordable; getting a defective automobile can do more harm than good. Here are the things you should do when getting a used car:
Check The Window Sticker.
According to the Federal Trade Commission, a Buyers Guide must be displayed by dealers in every used car they are selling. Attached to the window, It must state certain details, such as whether the car is being sold with included warranty or "as is." When a sale is marked "as is," the dealer offers no guarantee regarding the vehicle's condition.
Carefully Inspect The Vehicle.
The golden rule when getting a used car is to inspect it thoroughly. You must check every aspect of the vehicle's exterior and interior components, including its suspension, body condition, tires, pedals, seats, and engine-related components. Defective structural components can compromise your and your family's road safety.
Have It Checked By A Mechanic.
Before accepting a used car, make sure to have it checked by a professional mechanic first. Request a diagnostic inspection on the vehicle's overall condition you plan to buy or receive. If the car needs to be repaired but can't afford to, you may apply for free car repair assistance programs.
Where To Get Help To Get A Car
Charities and non-profit organizations often have strict eligibility requirements for their car assistance programs. If you did not qualify, there are other ways you could acquire support in getting your car.
Local Church
Several local churches have a decent budget to help people in need, which you could use to acquire a free car. Churches have offered assistance to members who are struggling financially, those whose homes are destroyed by natural calamities, and those whose cars have broken down. You have a higher chance of acquiring a free used car with your local church if you are actively involved with them.
Local Dealer Donation
Local dealership stores only sometimes give away free cars. However, some dealerships offer affordable prices for their older models, while others may allow trade-ins.
Also, if you need to buy a vehicle, the holiday seasons are usually when vehicle prices are at their lowest. For further assistance, try contacting the branch manager of your local dealership store.
Free On-The-Job Vehicle
Although it may take a while, specific jobs provide their employees with company vehicles. Often, you may also use your company car for personal travels. On-the-field jobs, such as cable and utility worker, service technician, social worker, and delivery driver, are a few of the jobs that usually come with a company vehicle.
Friends And Family
Ask your loved ones for assistance if you're having trouble finding a free used car through social services or non-profit organizations. Soliciting a free vehicle from your friends and family may seem like a huge request, but they could sell you one at a discounted price or lend you a secondhand automobile.
Craigslist
Most car owners attempt to sell their old and used vehicles on Facebook Marketplace or Craiglist. Car deals on these sites are usually affordable; you could check out the vehicle before purchasing.
Goodwill
Aside from worn-out clothes, baby items, books, and toys, some people donate their used cars to Goodwill. If you are in desperate need of a vehicle, you may call your local Goodwill office to check if they have any available used cars that they can provide. Try your luck on Goodwill's online auctions.
GoFundMe
Another method for finding an affordable used car is starting a GoFundMe page. You can describe your current circumstances and explain how having a car could give you access to better life opportunities.
Exercise honesty when telling your story and how a personal vehicle impacts your life. Some people may be generous enough to help you gather sufficient funds to buy secondhand cars.
Need more help in getting a car? Visit our comprehensive article about it today!
Frequently Asked Questions:
You can explore options such as applying for a loan, seeking assistance from family or friends, checking out car financing programs for low-income individuals, or researching nonprofit organizations and government programs that offer support for car purchases.
To improve your chances, focus on building your credit score, saving for a down payment, obtaining preapproval from a lender, and exploring various financing options to find the best loan terms and interest rates.
Yes, several nonprofit organizations provide assistance in obtaining a vehicle, such as Vehicles for Change, Good News Garage, and 1-800-Charity Cars. Eligibility criteria and application processes vary, so research each organization to find the best fit for your needs.
While there isn't a direct government program for car purchases, you may qualify for support through programs like Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Some state and local government programs may also offer transportation assistance, which can indirectly help you obtain a car.
Reach out to local community organizations, churches, or charities that may offer assistance or resources. Online crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe can also be an option to raise money for a car purchase. Always research any organization or resource thoroughly before proceeding.
There are programs that help people get a car, to learn more check out our article about programs to help get a car.
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