Car Repair Payment: Balancing Your Vehicle's Needs With Your Budget

Dec 21
08:38

2010

Andrew Stratton

Andrew Stratton

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When it comes time to pay for a car repair, you might be concerned about what seems like a high sum. Before you panic, it's a good idea to think seriously about all the possible options available for payment.

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When it comes time to pay for a car repair,Car Repair Payment: Balancing Your Vehicle's Needs With Your Budget  Articles you might be a little concerned. Before you panic, take the time to find out all of the different options for that you have and figure out which one will be most beneficial. In fact, there may be a way that you can take something positive from the situation.

Find Out About the Facility's Payment Options

Before bringing your vehicle in, contact the car repair shop and ask about some of the options that they have when it comes to paying for their services. Some will take all types of credit cards and a few will still accept personal checks. You don't want to be stuck with a bill that you don't have the means to pay. Rarely, a company may offer some type of financing options for customers. Remember, this is an important step to take before you go in for the car repair.

Prioritize

When you are at the shop, you may find that your vehicle needs more than one item fixed or replaced. In this case, take the time to figure out which is the most important. If you need a battery, this is going to be a priority because the vehicle will not run without it. However, you may need to have something in the air conditioner replaced as well. In this case, consider living without the air conditioner until you can acquire money at more convenient time.

Payment Benefits

Do you have a card that offers you bonus points for making purchases? What about a debit card that awards you points or gift cards when you use it like a credit card? For each of these, you can charge the cost of your repairs and get some type of benefit. You have to pay the bill no matter what, so you might as well make sure that there some incentive to you.

Also, if you have a large bill, consider paying cash. Most companies are charged a percentage of a sale if a customer uses any type of credit card. Talk to a manager if you are paying cash and see if you can get a percentage off your bill. Remember, this decision will vary from location to location.

Consider an Extended Warranty Plan

Are you frustrated with the rising cost of your car's repairs? If so, you may want to look into an extended warranty plan. Here you pay a monthly fee or a large upfront cost, but certain common problems are covered. With this type of plan, you may be responsible for some of the cost or none at all. Over time, this type of policy can save you and your family money.

Like most events in life, it is always a good idea to plan your car repair in advance. Take the time to examine all of your options and find the one that works best for you, the service shop and your current financial situation.