Transportation should be no more than 15 to 19% of your income.

This includes car payments, gas, maintenance costs, tolls, parking, and insurance.

Community Auto

http://nhco.org/auto.cfm 

Community Auto partners with NHCO, businesses, religious organizations and other nonprofits and community groups to identify individuals and families in need of affordable, reliable vehicles. Community Auto also participates with the Department of Public Welfare's Vehicle Grant Program, which can pay all or part of the vehicle's cost. A program at Family Services of Western PA can provide a loan. (see Ways to Work below) 

Contact Jenn Carr at 724-443-8300. 

GoodWill Auto Auction

http://www.goodwillswpa.org/auto-auction   Auctions are held every Tuesday. The gates open at 9:30 a.m., and bidding begins at 11:00 a.m. This preview permits the bidder to inspect cars, and keys are made available during the preview. A "bidder's card" can be obtained for $100 cash deposit and valid ID. The deposit is refunded at the conclusion of the auction or it may be applied to the purchase price. All purchases can be made with cash, checks or credit cards. Notary service is available to transfer plates, titles and tax, and to obtain auto insurance if needed.

Ways to Work Program

Providing Small Loans to Assist Family Self-Sufficiency.  Assists you in obtaining loans up to $1000.00 for car repairs and up to $4,000.00 for a car purchase.  http://www.fswp.org/Ways_Intake_Application.htm

Hidden Expenses - the Cost Of Ownership 

Tax - Registration - Maintenance - Depreciation - Interest

http://www.safecarguide.com/gui/aff/idx.htm

Understanding Vehicle Financing

http://www.afsaef.org/pdf/AFSA07_A_mauve-brown02_271.pdf

PA (PENNDOT) Driver and Vehicle Services

http://www.dmv.state.pa.us/?papowerNavDLTEST=|31734|31740|

Fuel Use of Various Cars - Find and Compare

http://www.fueleconomy.gov/

Kelly Blue Book

Retail or trade-in Blue Book values for used cars and dealer invoice and MSRP for new cars.  www.kbb.com

NADA Guides

A comprehensive vehicle information website to include retail or trade-in Blue Book values for used cars.
http://www.nada.com/

Auto Service Contracts - Know the terms

Buying a car?  You also may be encouraged to buy an auto service contract to help protect against unexpected, costly repairs. While it may sound like a good idea, don't buy in until you understand both the terms of the contract and who is responsible for providing the coverage.  Click Here to see or save PDF document.

Taking the Scare out of Auto Repair

Explains how your vehicle works, how to identify common car problems, how to select a good technician, and the kinds of questions to ask. Explains your rights.  Click Here to see or save PDF document.

Car Maintenance

General car maintenance information.  Click Here to see or save PDF document.

Buying tips - Used car

http://www.nadaguides.com/default.aspx?LI=1-20-9-5100-0-0-0&l=1&w=20&p=9&f=5101&a=8

Buying a Used Car
Discusses pricing terms, financing options, warranties, trade-ins, and service contracts. 8.5"x11", 20 pages, color.
Click Here to see or save PDF document.

Buying tips - New car

http://www.nadaguides.com/default.aspx?LI=1-20-9-5100-0-0-0&l=1&w=20&p=9&f=5101&a=1

Car repairs & maintenance: Avoid overcharges

http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/personal-finance/car-repairs-maintenance-1205/overview/index.htm