Looking for a free car in Michigan, a low-cost car, or help paying for car repairs? This page brings together the car assistance programs we found for Michigan 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 | Low-cost cars, Car loans, Repair help, Gas & rides |
| State TANF program | Family Independence Program (MDHHS) |
| Low-income car insurance | No state program; assigned-risk plan available |
| Vehicle replacement grant | None found in our research |
Nonprofit car programs in Michigan
Charity Motors
Low-income buyers can get 50% off used vehicles at its auctions.
Vehicles for Change – Detroit
Expansion of the Maryland car-award program.
Goodwill Northern Michigan – Workers on Wheels
Turns donated vehicles into reliable, affordable cars for working families.
Ways to Work
Car loans (historically up to $6,000) and repair loans.
Government car assistance in Michigan
MDHHS employment supports
Ask your caseworker about repair and transportation funds.
Car repair help in Michigan
Fixing the car you already have is often the fastest way to keep working. These Michigan programs can help with car repairs:
- Ways to Work (Michigan counties)
- MDHHS employment supports — Ask your caseworker about repair and transportation funds.
You can also ask Community Action Agencies, churches and charities in Michigan for one-time repair help. See charities that help with car repairs and emergency car repair assistance.
Low-income car insurance in Michigan
Michigan 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 Michigan
- Family Independence Program (MDHHS): ask your caseworker about “supportive services” or transportation assistance for work.
- 211 Michigan: 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 Michigan drivers.
How to apply for car help in Michigan
- Gather your documents using our application checklist.
- Ask a caseworker, employer, church or counselor for a referral letter.
- Contact the Michigan 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 Michigan?
Free car giveaways are limited in Michigan, but you can find low-cost cars, loans or repair help from local nonprofits and government help through Family Independence Program (MDHHS). You can also apply with Free Car Help.
Does Michigan have government help with cars?
Michigan’s TANF program (Family Independence Program (MDHHS)) can provide transportation supports such as car repairs or gas help for eligible families. MDHHS employment supports: Ask your caseworker about repair and transportation funds.
How do I apply for a free car in Michigan?
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 Michigan
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 Ohio — including United Way of Greater Stark County and Lorain County Community Action – By Car
- Free car programs in Indiana — including Combined Community Services – Wheels to Work
- Free car programs in Wisconsin — including Wheels-2-Work – Central Wisconsin Community Action and Work-n-Wheels