Three Ways to You Can Afford Unexpected Car Repair

Car repairs are almost always unexpected and they don’t always come at a time when you’re flush with cash. You could’ve spent just spent your five months savings on a new washing machine. So, what can you do if you haven’t budgeted for a car repair that needs immediate attention?

Negotiation

Thinking about negotiating with your mechanic might be an uncomfortable thought, but most car repair jobs are costly enough to make breaking a sweat worthwhile. Some shops will have pretty constant or rotating discounts and they may even have payment plans. A reasonable payment plan spread over a series of months makes a car repair bill much easier to handle.

Comparison Shopping

Do a little comparison shopping online to see who has the best mechanics for the best rates. Unless you are stranded in a Podunk town (or live in such a town) and there’s only one repair shop, spending a little extra time checking out a variety of deals. Calling for information on pricing and letting the employee know you are comparison shopping might get you a discount (for competition purposes.)

Ask a Car Hobbyist

Like the traditional “Ask your father,” it’s  worth considering whether or not you have a friend, family member, or neighbor who is good with cars and willing to help you. They may give you the service free and just have you pay for parts or be more lenient with a payment plan. Just be sure to thank them with some kind of compensation. A friend of a friend is more willing to help if they get something in return; if not money then something else they might need or a gift would do.

Don’t forget to ask people you know if they have any tips on deals or shops they know that doesn’t come up on an internet search. Some family-owned, smaller shops might be able to give you a great deal because they don’t have to adhere to a chain’s rules of service.

If you would like to know more, contact the experts at Performance Auto at (334) 245-6600 today.