Working Wheels offers two programs to provide affordable, reliable transportation to our community:
Vehicle Purchase Program
We repair and refurbish donated cars and sell them for $610 to working families in WNC.
Vehicle Repair Program
We offer deeply discounted vehicle repairs for folks who cannot afford to repair a vehicle they already own.
Read on to learn more about these programs!
The Working Wheels Vehicle Purchase Program
How do I buy an affordable, reliable vehicle through the Vehicle Purchase Program?
All program participants are referred to Working Wheels from one of our partner agencies. The case managers at these organizations are able to refer individuals who have been actively engaged in one of their eligible programs for at least 3 months. In addition to a referral from a case manager, all applicants must have a valid NC driver’s license, proof of employment, and the ability to pay $610.
How much does it cost to purchase a program car?
$610 = $500 for the car plus $110 to NC cover taxes, title, and registration fees. Prior to purchase, automobile insurance must be secured. Within 60 days of purchase, property tax is due to the state of NC (generally $20-40).
After I apply, what happens next?
Once we have your completed application and $610 payment, we will call to set up an orientation meeting which generally lasts about 45 minutes. During this time, we will explain the warranty, explain a bit more about the process, and answer any questions you may have.
Once we have a car ready for you, we will provide you with the vehicle’s VIN (vehicle ID#), year, make, model, mileage so that you are able to secure insurance.
How long is the wait for a program car?
Generally about 6 to 12 weeks after we receive your application. Sometimes shorter, sometimes longer depending on how many people are in line and how fast the quality cars are coming in.
Do program cars come with a warranty?
Yes. We provide a 6-month / 6,000-mile limited warranty on vehicles sold through our program.
Vehicles sold to the public to generate proceeds for the mission do not come with a warranty.
The Working Wheels Vehicle Repair Program
How do I get a deeply discounted repair on my own vehicle through the Vehicle Repair Program?
All program participants are referred to Working Wheels from one of our repair partner agencies. The case managers at these organizations are able to refer individuals who have been actively engaged in one of their eligible programs for at least 3 months. In addition to a referral from a case manager, all applicants must have a vehicle with a valid license plate, be employed or enrolled in school, and have the ability to pay up to $100 for the repair.
How much does the repair cost?
Repair program participants will pay 10% of the total cost of their repairs, and repairs will not exceed $1000. So the maximum out-of-pocket expense for the participant is $100.
After I apply, what happens next?
Once we have your completed application we will call you within two business days for an orientation call. We will collect any additional information and set up an assessment appointment for your car.
How long will the repair take?
Depending on shop availability and lead time on car parts, your repair process may take up to seven to ten business days.