Media post: Top 10 Most Expensive Auto Repairs

Everyone knows auto repairs can get expensive. That’s why some companies offer extended warranties to cover repairs after your factory warranty has expired. In order to get the best extended car warranty, you need to first do your research.

Part of that research needs to be how expensive the repairs in your area are and what you are likely going to have to pay either on a deductible or out of pocket. Keep reading for a list of the most expensive car repairs and what you can expect to pay for them.

1. Engine

An engine repair can cost up to $10,000, which could also be the down payment on a new car. Engine failure or cylinder failure is the single most expensive car repair out there. It’s not surprising that most people decide to upgrade at this point. That car must be special to put down that kind of money into fixing it. 

Engine failure is the most common type of fatal auto repair and possibly the most preventable. Most engine failure stems from failing to perform regular or scheduled maintenance on your car. To learn more about caring for your car, ask a local mechanic for recommendations or follow the scheduled maintenance of the dealership or manual for your vehicle.

2. Hybrid Parts

Next on the list of most expensive repairs is hybrid parts, particularly the battery, which can cost up to $6,000. If driving a hybrid is saving you tons on fuel, parlay those savings into preparing for repairs. Not only are hybrid parts harder to come by, but they are also more expensive because they are so rare. 

Each vehicle will need specialized attention, so taking it to the dealership or a trusted mechanic is a must. Explore other cars and their performance before deciding on a hybrid vehicle, and make sure you have a warranty or payment plan in place for those unexpected hybrid repairs.

3. Transmission

If your transmission goes, you know it’s going to be a high price tag. Replacing or repairing your transmission can cost up to $5,000. However, the transmission is just as important as the engine, as your car won’t move without it. 

Be sure to pay attention to any warning signs your transmission is slipping, like gears shifting or dragging and grinding noises. Again, scheduled and routine maintenance should alert you to any transmission problems you are having before they become a car-stopping issue.

4. Airbags

Depending on the model of your airbags, a defective one can cost up to $2,500, making it close to $5,000 to replace two or more. Of course, if your airbag has deployed, you are likely looking at a whole list of repairs, and this may be low on your list. However, it’s good to know the cost associated with replacing the airbags if there is some issue with deployment or safety. Take for example the case where GM airbags have failed to deploy. This is why it always pays to take extra caution rather than shell out thousands of dollars on a defective car safety system.

Pay attention to any safety recalls in order to get your airbags replaced free of charge. Airbags are also not likely included in your extended warranty, so double-check the details before you depend on them.

5. Suspension

Your suspension problems can cost you up to $4,000 for a complete overhaul. As usual, paying attention to your vehicle’s handling can help you avoid such costly repairs. If you are noticing more bumping, shifting, or sliding to the side, chances are your suspension is going. You may be able to avoid a complete overhaul by checking the suspension as soon as these things happen or even before.

6. Cam Shaft

A cam shaft replacement can run you up to $3,000, but again, it’s an easy repair to avoid. If your cam shaft is kept free of debris and is cleaned regularly, about as regularly as your oil is changed, you shouldn’t have a problem with it. 

This can be another one of those repairs that are avoidable as long as regular maintenance is done routinely. If you have questions about your cam shaft, ask your mechanic or wherever you get your oil changed.

7. Head Gasket

If your head gasket is in bad shape, you’ll likely know it. Not only will you have fluids everywhere, but your car will likely be inoperable. This can cost you up to $2000 but is easily avoidable with regular maintenance and good driving.

8. Catalytic Converter

Catalytic converter repairs could run you up to $1,500. These are almost never able to be repaired and must almost always be replaced. Know you are doing good for the environment, at least if you have to shell out for one of these guys. While not necessary for the successful running of your engine, many cities and states require emissions tests, which require this expensive part.

9. Fuel Injector

This repair might cost you up to $1,400 but is likely a symptom of more systemic problems, just like the airbag repairs. If your fuel injector is acting up, in other words, you might have bigger problems on your hands. Be sure to take your vehicle to a trusted mechanic for inspection.

10. Brake Line

Nothing is more important than your brakes. A complete brake line reinstall will likely cost you up to $1,000, so be sure to replace those brake pads as often as necessary to avoid this costly expense.

Be sure to check with your factory or extended warranty company to see which of these repairs are covered under your warranty so that you will know what you can expect to pay out of pocket and when. Ask your mechanic for advice on regular maintenance and repairs.