Looking for a free car in Colorado, a low-cost car, or help paying for car repairs? This page brings together the car assistance programs we found for Colorado residents, from charity car programs to government help. Listings change often, so contact each program to confirm eligibility before you apply.
| Nonprofit car programs found | 4 |
|---|---|
| Types of help available | Repair help, Low-cost cars, Free cars, Replacement grants |
| State TANF program | Colorado Works |
| Low-income car insurance | No state program; assigned-risk plan available |
| Vehicle replacement grant | Vehicle Exchange Colorado |
Nonprofit car programs in Colorado
Hands of the Carpenter
Low-cost repairs for working single mothers and discounted refurbished donated cars.
Good Neighbor Garage
Vehicle repair program for clients of partner agencies serving low-income people.
Denver Rescue Mission – Give A Vehicle
Donated cars repaired by mechanics and given to program participants.
Project Self-Sufficiency
Car help for single parents in its self-sufficiency program.
Government car assistance in Colorado
Vehicle Exchange Colorado
$9,000 toward a new EV or $6,000 toward a used EV when you trade in an older gas car. Household income at or below 80% of area median income.
Car repair help in Colorado
Fixing the car you already have is often the fastest way to keep working. These Colorado programs can help with car repairs:
- Hands of the Carpenter (Denver area)
- Good Neighbor Garage (Golden)
You can also ask Community Action Agencies, churches and charities in Colorado for one-time repair help. See charities that help with car repairs and emergency car repair assistance.
Low-income car insurance in Colorado
Colorado does not run a state low-income car insurance program. Drivers who are turned down by regular insurers can get coverage through the state’s assigned-risk plan, and most drivers can lower their premium by comparing quotes, choosing appropriate coverage for an older car, and asking for good-driver and low-mileage discounts. Read our guide to low-income car insurance by state.
Statewide help available to everyone in Colorado
- Colorado Works: ask your caseworker about “supportive services” or transportation assistance for work.
- 211 Colorado: dial 2-1-1 for local car repair funds, gas vouchers and car programs.
- Community Action Agencies: many run car, repair or emergency assistance programs.
- National programs: 1-800-Charity Cars, NABC Recycled Rides and nonprofit car loans.
- Veterans: the VA Automobile Allowance and adaptive equipment grants.
- Insurance: see low-income car insurance options for Colorado drivers.
How to apply for car help in Colorado
- Gather your documents using our application checklist.
- Ask a caseworker, employer, church or counselor for a referral letter.
- Contact the Colorado programs above that match your needs.
- Apply with Free Car Help — it is free and takes about 10 minutes.
Never pay an application or delivery fee for a free car. Learn the warning signs of free car scams.
Frequently asked questions
Are there free car programs in Colorado?
Yes. Colorado has nonprofit programs that give donated cars to people in need, usually with a referral. Low-cost car, loan and repair programs are also listed on this page.
Does Colorado have government help with cars?
Colorado’s TANF program (Colorado Works) can provide transportation supports such as car repairs or gas help for eligible families. Vehicle Exchange Colorado: $9,000 toward a new EV or $6,000 toward a used EV when you trade in an older gas car. Household income at or below 80% of area median income.
How do I apply for a free car in Colorado?
Contact the programs on this page, ask a caseworker or nonprofit for a referral letter, and submit a free application with Free Car Help. Never pay a fee to apply.
Car programs in states near Colorado
Most car programs only serve their own area, but if you live near a state line, or are moving, these neighboring states may have options:
- Free car programs in Utah — including God’s Garage and Cars for Moms
- Free car programs in Wyoming
- Free car programs in Nebraska — including Wheels for Work and Ways to Work
- Free car programs in Kansas
- Free car programs in Oklahoma
- Free car programs in New Mexico
- Free car programs in Arizona — including SHIFT – Labor’s Community Service Agency and Wheels to Work – NACOG & Arizona Central Credit Union