Does your car seem to have an uncanny ability to break down right when you're strapped for cash? We feel your pain – car repairs can be a financial nightmare. But the good news is, you don't have to hit the panic button every time your vehicle demands attention. With the right credit card on your side, you can save money on those dreaded auto repair bills. In this article, we'll uncover the best credit cards for auto repairs, making those unexpected expenses a little less scary.
Best Credit Cards For Auto Repairs Table of Contents
1. Discover it® Cash Back Credit Card
1. Discover it® Cash Back Credit Card
The Discover it® Cash Back card is ideal for auto repairs, thanks to its generous cashback program where you can earn 5% cash back on rotating categories each quarter, capped at $1,500, and 1% cashback on all other purchases. To maximize your rewards, use this card during the quarter when auto repair shops fall within the 5% category and schedule your routine maintenance then.
Key Highlights:
- 5% cash back on rotating categories each quarter (up to $1,500 in purchases, then 1%)
- 1% cashback on all other purchases
- Introductory 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers for 14 months
- No annual fee
- Cashback Match: Discover will automatically match all the cash back you've earned at the end of your first year
2. Chase Freedom Flex℠ Credit Card
Another popular option for auto-related expenses is the Chase Freedom Flex℠ card. Similar to the Discover it® Cash Back, this card also offers 5% cash back on rotating categories each quarter, capped at $1,500, and 1% cashback on all other purchases. The difference? Chase Freedom Flex℠ often includes gas stations in their 5% cashback categories – great for fueling up before hitting the road.
Key Highlights:
- 5% cash back on rotating categories each quarter (up to $1,500 in purchases, then 1%)
- 1% cashback on all other purchases
- Introductory 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months
- No annual fee
- Sign-up bonus: Earn $200 bonus after spending $500 on purchases within the first three months from account opening
3. Capital One® SavorOne® Cash Rewards Credit Card
If your car seems to have a love affair with the repair shop, the Capital One SavorOne card is your best bet. This card offers 2% cashback at repair shops, which is higher than many other cards on the market. Plus, it also comes with no annual fee, sweetening the deal for frequent repair visitors.
Key Highlights:
- 2% cashback at repair shops
- 3% cashback on entertainment and dining
- 1% cashback on all other purchases
- Introductory 0% APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months
- No annual fee
- Sign-up bonus: Earn $200 bonus after spending $500 on purchases within the first three months from account opening
Best Credit Cards For Auto Repairs Example:
Imagine it's time for your car's routine oil change and tire rotation at your local auto repair shop. Your total bill comes to $150. If you use the Discover it® Cash Back card during the quarter where auto repair shops fall within the 5% cashback category, you'll earn $7.50 cashback on that purchase. If you use the Capital One SavorOne card, you'll get 2% cashback, totaling $3. On the other hand, if you use a card with a flat 1% cashback rate, you'd only earn $1.50 back. Over time, these rewards can quickly add up and help offset your auto repair costs.
Now that we've revealed the best credit cards for auto repairs, it's time to start saving on those unexpected expenses. With the right card in your wallet, you can drive with confidence, knowing that should your vehicle need a little TLC, you won't break the bank. If you found this guide helpful, feel free to share it with your fellow drivers and car enthusiasts. And for more informative content on personal finance, credit cards, and savvy ways to save money, keep exploring Flik Eco.
