What Is the Average Repair Cost on a Vehicle?
How much should you budget for your vehicle’s maintenance? You may be surprised to learn that cars only require minor maintenance during the first two years. New cars are often covered under a manufacturer’s warranty for at least three years. Many manufacturers offer free maintenance for these first few years of ownership. Ask your dealer about the possibility of free maintenance or repair periods. Read on to learn more about the benefits of a new car warranty and how much it should cover.
Coolant change
A coolant change is a basic repair that should be performed every 40,000 to 50,000 miles. Follow the instructions in your vehicle’s owner’s manual to determine how often coolant should be changed. Some vehicles require a flushing of the cooling system every year, while others may not need a flush until more than 200,000 miles. It doesn’t matter how often your vehicle is flushed, flushing its coolant system is an important preventative maintenance task.
Oil change
An oil change for a vehicle costs $137 to $151, but this can vary depending on what oil you use and where you live. However, getting your oil changed regularly will protect your vehicle’s engine parts and keep it cool, and it will also prevent harmful contaminants from building up inside. However, due to contamination from short trips, combustion gases, and moisture, oil’s capacity to perform these functions is reduced.
Tire rotation
Rotating your vehicle’s tires is an easy and affordable maintenance task. Rotating your tires involves changing the front tires with rear tires. While every car is different, this process will prolong the life of your tires. Rotating your tires is a great way to check the wheel balance of your vehicle. This task is often free when you buy a new set tires. Also, not all cars have identical front and rear tires. You may have to modify the tires to fit the car.
Brake repair
Brake repairs are expensive. Brake rotors and pads can cost between $250 and $430, depending on the brand and the location. Dealerships charge more than independent mechanics. For one axle, the average cost of replacing the rotors and pads is between $250 and $430. If you need to replace all four, the total cost of brake repair could be as much as $1,100.
Transmission repair
Transmission repair costs can vary depending on the vehicle, but there are common causes. A properly diagnosed problem can be as low as $75, while the valve replacement can cost up to $1,000. The transmission rebuilding may cost as high as $3,500. It is often cheaper to repair the transmission yourself, provided that the car isn’t a luxury model. You can determine the cost of repairs by taking your car to a shop with good reputation.
Engine repair
The average cost of replacing an engine can vary widely. A simple problem such as a blown-out motor can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $4,000, while more difficult repairs may cost $7,500. A replacement engine can cost thousands of dollars as some engines have to be removed completely from a vehicle. A typical F150 engine replacement can cost about $7,000, which includes about $2,000 in labor costs and the rest in parts.