Automotive Repair Financing Helps Bridge Monetary Gaps
Automotive repair services are a necessity when the unexpected happens. Sometimes a major breakdown can occur when personal finances are limited, making finding alternate ways of paying for auto repairs key to motoring safely to work or commuting to school. These alternative payment methods may also help cover the costs of towing services or rental cars used following an accident or mechanical failure.
Insurance coverage
Car insurance does not cover most breakdowns, but if an issue is related to a car accident or other covered event, insurance can help meet the costs of repairs after the policy deductible is met. Some insurance plans also offer optional coverage for towing, roadside assistance or rental cars. Based on policy guidelines, these services can kick in outside of a covered event and help defray the additional costs of repairs. Towing and roadside assistance coverage purchased separately from a standard insurance policy may also help cover charges.
Warranty service
The initial warranty period on a car is very specific about the amount of time or mileage allowed before the coverage ends. However, extended warranties or those limited to specific vehicle components can continue for much longer timeframes. When there is the possibility a car may still have coverage, visit the auto dealership where the car was purchased with any warranty documents and ask if repairs are entitled to coverage.
Gas credit cards
For financing auto repairs, existing gas credit cards often have partnerships with specific auto repair franchises to cover costs. Check the credit card website for any partner locations or call the number on the back of the card to inquire about additional places where the card can be used. According to Credit Karma, there are also branded cards specifically for select auto repair chains.
Short-term auto repair loans
Some financial institutions offer short-term loans specifically for auto repairs. These promotional opportunities may provide better financing than a credit card for a limited period of time, such as no interest for six months or low interest for one year. If the loan is paid off within the appropriate timeframe, it can be a significant stress reliever when car repairs are needed.
Bank loans
For consumers with good credit, a bank loan is an option for major auto repairs, like a motor or transmission replacement. When a car is paid off, the bank can easily use a vehicle as collateral, but it may also be possible to obtain a fixed-rate loan without collateral for borrowers with a high credit score and a history with the bank.
For more info, contact a local company like Precision Towing & Recovery.