subject: Options To Manage Auto Repair Effectively [print this page] At some point in time, most people will find themselves in need of auto repair. Aside from the regular maintenance that a vehicle requires, there are times when parts fail and need to be replaced. In these situations, customers often feel like they need to go ahead and have all of the work completed in just one appointment. However, if cost is a concern, there are other options.
Taking Care of the Necessities
When you find out that you need car repair, make sure that you ask questions until you understand just what the problem is. While you may be behind on other work that needs to be done, you need to find out what is necessary in order to get the vehicle running. Take care of the items that are the most immediately important and if you need to, delay some of the other work until it becomes more affordable. This gives you time to save.
Credit Card
Aside from paying cash for auto repair, using a credit card is also a possibility. It ensures that the work is completed and you get your car back as soon as possible. You don't have to worry about taking care of other issues later, and you can drive with an extra measure of peace of mind. Credit cards give you a chance to make monthly payments for work that was already done. On the downside, most credit cards charge interest if a balance is not paid off within a certain amount of time. This could mean that the amount it takes to fix the car will be higher in the long run than just paying cash or delaying some of the work.
Service Department Financing
Some independent shops offer their customers financing for auto repair. Just like applying for a credit card or a small loan, the individual will fill out an application and wait to get approval. If you have some concerns about paying when you get the estimate, consider asking about financing right away to see what your options are. The process of approval varies from shop to shop.
Insurance Company Settlement
Sometimes a car accident causes internal damage to a vehicle's engine or other functioning parts. When this happens, auto repair can actually be something covered by a car insurance company. Just like with any damage to the body and exterior of the car, an adjustor will come out, take a look, and examine the estimate the service department provides. If you have a deductible and you are filing through your own insurance, you will need to pay the deductible to the shop. If someone else's insurance is covering the damage, you will not be required to pay anything out of pocket.
by: Anders Abadie
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