Auto Repair Loans: Compare Options, Rates and How To Apply

An unexpected repair bill can throw your budget off track, but you have options. Auto repair loans, payment plans and other financing solutions can help you get back on the road without paying the full cost upfront. Here's how they compare so you can make the best decision for your situation.

MoneyLion can help you find personal loan offers. Based on the information you provide, get matched with offers for up to $50,000 from our top providers. Compare rates, terms, and fees and choose the best offer for you!

MoneyLion

People think it’s rude to talk about money. Should they?

Yes, it makes people uncomfortableNo, talking about money can build better habitsYes, save that chat for a financial advisorYes, people will judge you

88

Key Takeaways

• Auto repair loans are personal loans built to cover unexpected vehicle repair costs. They usually fund within one to three business days and are paid back in fixed monthly installments.

• A personal loan often costs less than other repair financing if your credit is strong. Typical annual percentage rates (APRs) run 6% to 36%, while title loans can climb to 100% to 300%.

• Compare at least three lenders before you sign any auto repair loan. Many online lenders offer prequalification with a soft credit check, so shopping around could save you hundreds.

• Skip title loans and payday loans whenever a cheaper option exists. These can carry APRs topping 300%, and missing payments on a title loan risks losing your car.

• Weigh the repair cost against your car's value before you borrow. If the estimate tops what the car is worth, trading it in may beat financing the fix.

Summary generated by AI, verified by MoneyLion editors

What Is an Auto Repair Loan?

An auto repair loan is a personal loan specifically designed to cover vehicle repair costs.

• The loan allows you to borrow a specific amount, typically between $500 and $10,000, to cover necessary repairs.

• You can typically apply through a bank, credit union or online lender. Sometimes you can apply directly at the repair shop. 

• Lenders will consider your credit score and income when evaluating your application.

• If approved, funds typically arrive within one to three business days. 

• You’ll pay back the loan in fixed monthly installments. 

Types of Auto Repair Financing

A personal loan is often the best option for financing auto repairs because APRs are often lower than for other types of credit. But it’s not the only way to pay the bill. Here are other options to know.

Personal Loans

Personal loans for auto repairs can help you manage unexpected expenses without stress. Here’s what makes them particularly valuable:

• Fixed interest rates that stay consistent throughout the loan term — typically lower than standard credit card rates

• Predictable monthly payments that help you budget effectively

• Flexible borrowing options from $1,000 for minor repairs to $10,000 for major mechanical work, with the final amount based on your credit profile and income

Credit Cards

Already have a credit card? This could be your fastest route to financing auto repairs, as you can pay the repair shop directly without waiting for loan approval. Just be aware of the potential drawbacks:

• High interest rates — typically 18% to 28% APR — if the balance isn’t paid quickly

• Reducing available credit might affect credit utilization ratio

• Risk of accumulating debt if repairs are expensive and can’t be paid off promptly 

Cards with 0% introductory APR offers can be advantageous if you can pay off the repair costs before the promotional period ends. Some credit cards also offer rewards or cashback, which could provide a small discount on your overall repair costs.

MoneyLion can help you explore credit card offers tailored to your financial profile and needs. Explore credit card options and learn what you could qualify for!

Earned Wage Access

EWA is a pay advance, not a loan. It’s particularly suitable for smaller auto repair costs that you can comfortably repay with your upcoming paycheck.

Here's how EWA works:

•  Allows early access to a portion of your already-earned wages

• Charges no interest, though some apps add an optional fee or tip for instant transfers

• No credit checks or debt accumulation

• Automatic repayment through payroll deduction or auto debit on your next payday 

Mechanic Payment Plan

Many repair shops partner with lenders to offer financing at the point of service. The convenience can be worth it in an emergency, but comparing personal loan offers first may help you find a lower-cost option if you have time.

How mechanic payment plans work:

• Many repair shops offer financing through third-party lenders at the time of service.

• Approval decisions are often available within minutes.

• Interest rates and repayment terms vary by lender and your credit profile.

Title Loans

Title loans use your vehicle’s title as collateral to secure funding for loans for car repairs or other expenses. While they provide quick access to cash regardless of your credit history, they come with significant risks.

How title loans work:

• You temporarily surrender your vehicle’s title to the lender while maintaining possession of your car.

• Loan amounts typically range from 25% to 50% of your vehicle’s value.

• Repayment terms are usually short, around 15 to 30 days.

• Interest rates are exceptionally high, often 100% to 300% APR.

•  If you can’t repay, the lender can repossess your vehicle.

Pros and Cons of Auto Repair Loans

Understand the pros and cons of auto repair loans before you apply.

Do You Need a Loan for This Repair?

Not sure a loan is the best way to go? Consider the following:

Take the Loan If

• The repair cost exceeds your available cash but is less than your car’s value 

• You depend on your vehicle for work or essential transportation 

• The repair will extend your car’s life significantly

• You can comfortably manage the monthly loan payments

Consider Alternatives If

• Your car’s repair estimate is more than the value of your car — in that case, it might be time to trade it in.

• The bill is for maintenance you can safely delay long enough to raise enough cash to cover the cost.

How To Get an Auto Repair Loan: Step-by-Step

Want to secure auto repair financing without feeling like you’re getting taken for a ride? Follow these steps:

Step 1: Know Your Credit Score Before Applying

Your credit score significantly influences the loan terms you’ll qualify for. This helps you target lenders more likely to approve your application and gives you a better idea of what interest rates to expect.

Step 2: Get Multiple Repair Estimates

Take your vehicle to at least three different repair shops and request itemized estimates that clearly separate urgent safety issues from recommended maintenance. Some shops offer free inspections, making this an essential step that costs you nothing but time.

Step 3: Compare Loan Offers From Multiple Lenders

Interest rates and terms can vary wildly, so shopping around could potentially save you hundreds. Many online lenders offer quick prequalification with a soft credit check. 

Step 4: Read the Fine Print

Look for prepayment penalties, origination fees and other charges that could turn your good deal into highway robbery. 

Alternatives to Auto Repair Loans

One of these alternatives could help you pay for your car repair without affecting your credit.

• Loan from friend or family member

• Easy-to-start side hustle, such as food deliveries or babysitting, to raise the extra cash

• Sell household items you no longer need

Red Flags To Avoid

Not all loans for car repairs deserve your trust. Watch out for:

• Payday loans with extremely high APRs — often 300% to 700% — and short repayment terms that can trap you in a cycle of debt

• Auto repair loans with prepayment penalties

• Mechanics who pressure you into their financing options

• Variable interest rates that could increase over time

• Hidden fees buried in the loan agreement

• Loans that require your car as collateral, since missing payments can cost you your newly repaired car

What To Do Next

When car repair issues arise, research your options carefully. Look at the car’s value, the repair amount vs. your available cash and borrowing limits, interest rates and repayment terms. That way, you’ll make an informed choice that balances your immediate vehicle needs with long-term financial health.

Car Repair Financing FAQs

Still deciding how to cover a surprise repair bill? Here are answers to the questions people ask most about financing car repairs.

Can I get an auto repair loan with bad credit?

Possibly, if you can show enough income to cover the payments. However, you’re likely to pay a high APR.

How fast can I get money for car repairs?

As soon as the same day, and usually within a few business days. 

Does applying for an auto repair loan hurt my credit score?

Yes. The lender will likely do a hard credit check, which reduces your score slightly. But diversifying your credit profile and making on-time payments can increase your score in the long run.

What’s the difference between a personal loan and mechanic financing?

A personal loan is a loan you take out from the lender of your choice and repay in monthly installments, usually over two years or more. Mechanic financing is a point-of-sale credit product, such as a special-purpose credit card, buy now pay later deal or short-term personal loan, you apply for at the register. You won’t be able to choose the lender, and approval is not guaranteed. 

How much can I borrow for car repairs?

Tens of thousands of dollars is possible with a personal loan if you qualify. Limits on credit cards, title loans and mechanic financing are usually much lower.

Is it worth financing a car repair, or should I just get a new car?

If your car is worth a lot more than the repair will cost, and the repair will significantly extend the life of your car, the repair might be worth it. Otherwise, consider trading the car in for a new or new-to-you model.

Key Terms

• Auto repair loan: A personal loan used to pay for vehicle repairs, repaid in fixed monthly installments over a set term.

• APR: The yearly cost of borrowing, including interest and certain fees, shown as a percentage so you can compare offers.

• Personal loan: An unsecured loan from a bank, credit union or online lender that gives you a lump sum to repay over time, often with a fixed rate.

• EWA: A service that lets you tap part of the wages you've already earned before payday. It's not a loan and charges no interest, though some apps add optional fees for instant transfers.

• Title loan: A short-term loan secured by your vehicle's title, typically with very high APRs. If you can't repay, the lender can repossess your car.

• Credit utilization ratio: The share of your available credit you're using. Keeping it below 30% generally supports a stronger credit score.

• Prequalification: A soft-credit-check preview of the rates and terms you may qualify for, with no impact to your credit score.

Summary generated by AI, verified by MoneyLion editors

Sources

• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. 2024. "CFPB Proposes Interpretive Rule to Ensure Workers Know the Costs and Fees of Paycheck Advance Products."

• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. 2024. "Credit card interest rate margins at all-time high."

• OneMain Financial. 2024. "What Is a Title Loan and How Does It Work?"

• American Title Loans. "Fees and Annual Percentage Rates."

• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. 2024. "What is a payday loan?"

• Federal Trade Commission. "What To Know About Payday and Car Title Loans."

Jacinta Majauskas contributed to the reporting for this article.