

How To Finance Emergency Car Repairs
6th December 2024
Car troubles never come at a good time, do they? Whether it's a sudden breakdown or the engine warning light appearing unexpectedly, dealing with car repairs can be tricky. Here’s a guide to help you manage the situation and explore practical options when your car breaks down.
What to do when your car breaks down
First, let's talk about the immediate steps you should take when your car breaks down:
1. Ensure safety first.
Your safety is the top priority. If your car stops working on the road, try to pull over to the side, away from traffic. Turn on your hazard lights, and if you have a reflective vest, put it on to make sure you’re visible to other drivers.
2. Set up a warning triangle.
Place a warning triangle about 45 metres (147 feet) behind your vehicle on the same side of the road. This may help warn other drivers, particularly in low-visibility conditions or on quieter roads. The Highway Code has rules for breakdowns and incidents to guide you through these situations.
3. Basic breakdown protocols.
If you have breakdown cover, like the AA or RAC, reach out for help—they should be able to fix the issue or arrange to tow your car. A local garage or mobile mechanic may help if you don't have cover. But before you call, it’s worth trying a few troubleshooting steps first. Here are some checks you can do before calling a mechanic.
Exploring emergency car repair options
The next step is figuring out how to move forward. Here are a few options to consider:
1. Use savings or an emergency fund.
If you’ve managed to save a bit for situations like this, now’s a good time to use it. An emergency fund helps make unexpected costs easier to handle. If you haven’t started yet, it’s never too late—check out this guide on how to build an emergency fund.
2. Borrow from family or friends.
Sometimes, your loved ones are the best ones to turn to. If you need a hand, don’t hesitate to ask. Just be clear about when you’ll be able to return the favour—most people will appreciate your honesty and understanding.
3. Find the right repair shop.
Where you take your car for repairs matters. Here’s how you could make the best choice:
- Independent mechanics: Independent mechanics tend to offer a more personal touch compared to larger dealership service centres. They work well for straightforward repairs and maintenance. If you're not sure about the differences, this comparison of independent mechanics vs. dealership service centres might help you decide what's best for your car.
- Get a few quotes: It’s always good to ask around for estimates before deciding. Tools like Autobutler and Confused.com are helpful for comparing services and finding someone trustworthy.
- Ask for recommendations: Friends, family, or even local Facebook groups can point you toward a reliable mechanic. Sometimes, the best options come from a trusted word-of-mouth suggestion.
4. Consider car repair loans
If repair costs are higher than expected, a car repair loan might be a good option. But before moving forward, take some time to review the details, including interest rates and repayment terms, to ensure if it’s the right fit for you. It’s also important to check that the lender is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
What to do if the car repair takes longer than expected
If your car ends up staying in the garage longer than expected, don’t forget that under the Consumer Rights Act 2015, garages are required to complete repairs within a “reasonable” timeframe. If delays become an issue, here’s what you might want to do:
- Ask for a courtesy car: Some garages may provide courtesy vehicles so you can stay on the move while waiting for repairs to finish.
- Request a discount: If the delays continue, it’s worth asking for a small reduction on your final bill.
- Keep receipts: If you have extra travel costs while your car is being repaired, keep all your receipts. They might come in handy if you need to raise a complaint later.
The bottom line
Car repairs can be tough, especially when they come out of nowhere. But don’t worry—there are ways to manage the situation and make it a bit easier. Whether you're using your savings, borrowing from family, or thinking about a loan, there are options to help you cover the cost.
The important thing is to stay calm and take it one step at a time. You're not alone in this—there's always a way to get things back on track.