Looking for a free car in Minnesota, a low-cost car, or help paying for car repairs? This page brings together the car assistance programs we found for Minnesota 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 | 6 |
|---|---|
| Types of help available | Low-cost cars, Car loans, Repair help, Gas & rides |
| State TANF program | MFIP |
| Low-income car insurance | No state program; assigned-risk plan available |
| Vehicle replacement grant | None found in our research |
Nonprofit car programs in Minnesota
Wheel Get There / Cars for Neighbors
Donated cars at a steep discount — many buyers pay about $40–$700 plus taxes and fees.
Minnesota Valley Action Council
Sells donated, running cars to low-income buyers.
Family Assets for Independence in Minnesota
Matched savings that can go toward buying a car.
The Lift Garage
Low-cost repairs and free pre-purchase inspections.
Project Clean Air Repair
Free emissions repairs for qualifying households (e.g. SNAP/WIC).
Community Action Partnership of Ramsey & Washington Counties
Car repair and car ownership help.
Government car assistance in Minnesota
MFIP support services
Ask your employment counselor about transportation help.
Car repair help in Minnesota
Fixing the car you already have is often the fastest way to keep working. These Minnesota programs can help with car repairs:
- The Lift Garage (Minneapolis)
- Project Clean Air Repair (Twin Cities)
- Community Action Partnership of Ramsey & Washington Counties (St. Paul)
- MFIP support services — Ask your employment counselor about transportation help.
You can also ask Community Action Agencies, churches and charities in Minnesota for one-time repair help. See charities that help with car repairs and emergency car repair assistance.
Low-income car insurance in Minnesota
Minnesota 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 Minnesota
- MFIP: ask your caseworker about “supportive services” or transportation assistance for work.
- 211 Minnesota: 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 Minnesota drivers.
How to apply for car help in Minnesota
- Gather your documents using our application checklist.
- Ask a caseworker, employer, church or counselor for a referral letter.
- Contact the Minnesota 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 Minnesota?
Free car giveaways are limited in Minnesota, but you can find low-cost cars, loans or repair help from local nonprofits and government help through MFIP. You can also apply with Free Car Help.
Does Minnesota have government help with cars?
Minnesota’s TANF program (MFIP) can provide transportation supports such as car repairs or gas help for eligible families. MFIP support services: Ask your employment counselor about transportation help.
How do I apply for a free car in Minnesota?
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 Minnesota
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 Wisconsin — including Wheels-2-Work – Central Wisconsin Community Action and Work-n-Wheels
- Free car programs in Iowa — including Wheels for Work – Northeast Iowa Community Action and Wheels for Work – United Way of Greater Fort Dodge
- Free car programs in South Dakota — including Sioux Empire Wheels to Work
- Free car programs in North Dakota