Welcome to another edition of Driving Change, the official blog of the Cool Air Rebate Program (CAR). I’m Nathan Perrine, Executive Director of the Car Care Council and Chief Financial Officer of the Auto Care Association.
WHAT’S NEW: 350 Shop Locations
The Cool Air Rebate Program has officially surpassed 350 certified auto repair shops and $3 million in repair support for families across California. That’s more than numbers. It’s relief delivered, trust built, and communities mobilized.
From the Central Valley to the Inland Empire, this program is reaching Californians who need it most. Every shop that joins. Every partner that spreads the word. Every neighbor who helps a family apply. This is what statewide impact looks like.
Together, we’re turning a simple repair into something bigger: health, access, and peace of mind for the road ahead. Your efforts are keeping Californians cool and safe.
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: Healthy Living, Cool Rides
Healthy families need more than fresh produce, and Alchemist Community Development Corporation knows it. This Sacramento nonprofit has made Cool Air Rebate part of its farmers’ market outreach, showing families that healthy living includes both nutrition and the ability to stay safe and cool.
“We are committed to bringing healthy options, information, and resources to Sacramento families, and our partnership with Cool Air Rebate is part of that commitment.”
From fresh food to working car A/C systems, Alchemist CDC is proving that complete healthy living means comfort, clean air, and safer drives.
IN FOCUS: CAR Helps Curb Valley Fever Risks
For many drivers with broken A/C, rolling down the windows feels like the only relief. But in the areas where Valley Fever is common in the summer months, such as Kern County, driving with windows open increases risk.
The California Department of Public Health advises keeping windows closed and using recirculated air to help prevent Valley fever. Without A/C, that’s tough in triple-digit heat.
That’s where CAR makes a difference. By paying up to 90% of eligible A/C repairs for Californians in need, we’re improving health, safety, and comfort. And with more than 300 partner shops statewide, drivers can say goodbye to hot car rides—and keep the windows up.
WHAT’S NEXT: Relief You Can Feel
Repairing an A/C system can cost thousands, leaving many drivers unprepared. According to John Eppstein of John’s Automotive Care in San Diego, CAR is making a big difference:
“It’s a huge relief. If you can take that burden off people having to pay for a repair like that, this is a great program.”
John’s is one of 37 San Diego County shops now participating. And across California, CAR has grown far beyond its pilot year—turning into a lifeline for thousands of families.
With every repair, we’re not just fixing cars. We’re supporting local shops, easing financial burdens, protecting air quality, and keeping families safer on the road. Together, we’re building a healthier, more affordable future for transportation in our state.
