First, understand the bill
- 1
Ask for an itemised quote
Ask the mechanic to separate parts, labour and any optional work, and to explain each item in plain language.
- 2
Separate safety from nice-to-have
Ask which repairs are needed to make the car safe and roadworthy now, and which could be booked in later.
- 3
Get a second quote
For a bigger job, another mechanic may price the work differently or suggest a cheaper fix, such as a reconditioned part.
- 4
Agree before work starts
Ask the workshop to call you before doing anything beyond the quote, so the bill doesn't grow without your say.
Check whether someone else should pay
Car insurance
If the damage came from a crash, storm, theft or vandalism, check your policy. An excess will usually still apply.
Warranty or a recent repair
A newer car may be under a manufacturer's or dealer warranty. If a part or recent repair has failed early, the consumer guarantees in the Australian Consumer Law may also help.
Roadside assistance
A roadside membership may cover towing or a call-out, which takes some of the cost off the total.
Ways to spread the cost
Ask the workshop for a payment plan
Some workshops accept instalments, or a deposit with the rest paid later. Get the amounts, dates and any fees in writing.
No Interest Loans
Eligible people can borrow up to $2,000 with no interest or fees for essentials, including car repairs and registration. The provider pays the supplier directly.
Moneysmart: No Interest LoansCentrelink advance payment
If you get an eligible Centrelink payment, you may be able to receive part of it early and repay it from future payments, with no interest.
How advance payments workRegistration costs
If registration is due at the same time, check whether your state or territory lets you renew for a shorter period to spread the cost.
If you're thinking about borrowing
- Compare the total amount repayable, not only the repayment.
- Borrow no more than the repair actually costs.
- Be wary of any lender that promises approval before looking at your situation.
- Check the lender holds an Australian credit licence on ASIC's professional registers.
- If the car keeps needing major work, compare the cost of fixing it with replacing it before you borrow.
Evercrest Finance will offer one loan for one-off costs such as car repairs: $2,050 to $4,600 in cash, repaid over 3 or 6 months, with a $400 establishment fee added to the loan. Whichever lender you consider, use a cost calculator first and check the repayments against your budget.
Car repair questions
Can I get a No Interest Loan for car repairs?
Yes, if you're eligible. Moneysmart lists car repairs and registration among the essentials a No Interest Loan can cover, up to $2,000. Call Good Shepherd on 13 64 57 or use the provider finder at nils.com.au.
Do mechanics offer payment plans?
Some do, especially for existing customers or larger jobs. Ask before the work starts and get the arrangement in writing, including any fees.
What can I do if a repair was done badly?
Under the Australian Consumer Law, services must be provided with due care and skill. Contact the business first. If that doesn't resolve it, your state or territory consumer protection agency can help.
Should I put a car repair on a credit card?
It can work if you can clear the balance before interest applies. If you can't, compare the card's interest rate and how long repayment would take with other options first.