Usually, owning a car means you’ll face a vehicle repair at some point. Sometimes, the cost will be minimal. Other times, the price can be quite expensive. Yet, whichever type you’re facing, you want the job done correctly. When searching for experienced mechanics near you, trust Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville.
The Top 5 Most Expensive Car Repairs
No one likes expensive vehicle repairs. Yet, most of us rely on our vehicles for transportation. Typically, the cost of getting your car back on the road varies according to several factors:
- Extent of the damage
- Make and model of the vehicle
- Age of the car
- Availability of parts
- Labor costs of the repair shop
Here are the top 5 most costly car repairs:
1. Replacing The Engine
When you fail to perform routine maintenance, like changing oil or coolant, your engine is susceptible to overheating. Generally, this is the most common cause of car engine failure. Although replacing it is a costly repair, it’s still cheaper than buying a new car. You can expect to pay from $5000 to $15,000.
2. Rebuilding A Transmission
Often, you don’t realize you have a transmission problem until your car has suffered extensive damage. Then, you face the costly prospect of rebuilding it. This involves a complete disassembly, cleaning, and inspection of every part. During reassembly, the technician will replace any damaged or worn parts. Expect to pay upwards of $3000.
3. Head Gasket
The main function of the head gasket is to keep circulating fluids from mixing or entering the combustion chamber. When it fails, your fluids can leak into the cylinders as well as mixing with each other. If it’s just the gasket that needs replacing, the cost averages between $1000-$3000. Of course, if you’ve damaged other engine parts, the repair will be much more expensive.
4. Catalytic Converter
As part of your car’s exhaust system, the catalytic converter lessens pollution by changing toxic contaminants into less harmful substances. To do so, it needs some of the world’s most valuable metals, platinum, palladium, and rhodium. This is why replacing this part costs about $2000.
5. Suspension Repairs
Your vehicle’s suspension absorbs the bumps of the road to make driving more comfortable. It includes your tires, struts/shock absorbers, springs, bushings, bearings, and rods. Consistently driving over rough roads or hitting potholes at high speeds can damage parts. Furthermore, continually driving with low tires or wheels out of alignment can also cause suspension problems. Finally, metal parts are susceptible to rusting especially when exposed to deicing chemicals. Generally, repairs average around $1000.
The Most Common Vehicle Repair Jobs
Thankfully, many car owners won’t face those more expensive repairs. However, complex machinery, components naturally and gradually deteriorate even if you properly care for them. Generally, mechanical parts have a finite life
Typically, some parts experience greater wear and tear due to their function. Thus, you may find yourself needing one of these common part replacements:
Generally, performing routine maintenance can help you extend the life of many parts. You’ll also enjoy greater reliability and fuel efficiency.
For example, regularly performing an oil change keeps parts well-lubricated and less susceptible to wear and tear. Additionally, routinely replacing fluids keeps parts working at optimal temperatures and prevents overheating.
FAQs About Vehicle Repair
Any car repair can raise many questions from cost to expected completion time. Below, we answer a few questions regarding fixing your car. If you have others, please call Xpress Lube at 336-904-6319 and one of our friendly staff will help you.
Which Is The Hardest Part On A Car To Fix?
Typically, most mechanics near you will say the transmission is the hardest part to fix. This complex piece of machinery contains hundreds of electronic and mechanical parts. Plus, it’s a labor-intensive job requiring specialized tooling.
Will A Check Light Engine Indicate An Expensive Vehicle Repair?
Not necessarily. The check engine illuminates when your vehicle’s onboard computer detects a problem with the engine or emissions. This can mean a problem with one of several different parts:
- Loose gas cap
- Catalytic converter
- Oxygen sensor
- Mass airflow sensor
- Spark plugs
- Ignition coil
When your check light engine illuminates, don’t panic. However, as soon as possible, bring your car to your trusted auto repair shop to diagnose and fix the problem.
How Do I Know Which Maintenance Services My Car Needs?
Often, performing routine maintenance can help you avoid major breakdowns. Your vehicle owner’s manual will outline all the time intervals for your car’s required servicing. Of course, you can always bring your car to us and we’ll be happy to review your maintenance schedule. Furthermore, when you choose Xpress Lube for an oil change, we’ll perform a courtesy check on several important items:
- Engine air filter
- Brake fluid
- Power steering fluid
- Automatic transmission fluid
- Coolant/antifreeze
Why Should I Choose Havoline® Xpress Lube Of Kernersville?
With a modern facility, ASE-certified technicians, and the latest diagnostic equipment, we can handle all your automotive needs. Our staff can perform a full range of services from major repairs to car detailing. For over 25 years, our family-owned auto repair shop has been serving the following areas:
- Kernersville
- Walkertown
- Colfax
- Oak Ridge
- Belews Creek
- Stokesdale
- High Point
- Greensboro
- Winston Salem
You’ll love our fast friendly service, competitive prices, and quality work. If you need a car repair, servicing, or cleaning, call Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville at 336-904-6319.
