The Most Expensive Auto Repairs And How to Avoid Them

1. Catalytic Converter Replacement

The catalytic converter is a major component of your vehicle’s emission control system. It’s the part that removes the bulk of the harmful substances found in your car’s exhaust before it leaves your tailpipe. 

The catalytic converter is also costly. On average, a new one will cost between $500 and $2,500, plus the cost of installation. Since it’s illegal to drive a car without a catalytic converter, it’s a repair you can’t put off or avoid.

2. Engine Control Module Replacement

Modern car engines rely on sophisticated sensor systems to keep them running and prevent unnecessary emissions. They have a computer— the engine control module (ECM)—that reads the sensor data and keeps your engine running properly.

If you ever need a new ECM, it will cost you quite a bit. Most ECMs cost between $800 and $2,000, depending on the type of your car. 

You’ll also have to pay for the time it takes for an auto technician to install the ECM. This is not another repair you can put off—your car won’t run without a working ECM.

3. Transmission Replacement

Your car’s transmission is one of the most complex systems. It’s the part of your car that shifts between gears to provide you with the right mix of speed and torque as you drive. 

If your transmission fails, you’re looking at a minimum of $4,000 for a new one, plus installation. However, it’s not a job you want to leave to an inexperienced mechanic, or you’ll end up stranded by the side of a road somewhere before you know it.

4. Engine Replacement

As we’re sure you’re aware, your car’s engine is its most important part. Without the engine, you’d be the proud owner of a 4-ton stationary modern art display. 

It should come as no surprise that replacing an engine is one of the costliest car repairs on our list. It’s another repair that’ll set you back at least $4,000. The more powerful the engine is, the more it’ll cost.

How Do I Prevent Expensive Auto Repair?

The experts at APA Total Car Care have two secret weapons you can use when it comes to preventing expensive auto repairs.

1. Always Have Regularly Scheduled Maintenance

Regularly scheduled maintenance is your first line of defense. Make sure to have all factory-suggested maintenance according to the manufacturer’s schedule. 

To learn any suggested maintenance, you can refer to your owner’s manual or reach out to the mechanics at APA Total Car Care.

2. Build a Relationship with a Trusted Mechanic in Gilbert, AZ

The second secret weapon is to establish a relationship with a trustworthy mechanic. If you do so, you will be more confident in their suggestions and be more likely to have the suggested service performed.

In many instances, a mechanic can tell when a part is on the verge of failing. By replacing that part before it actually fails, you can prevent harm to other components. For example, replacing a catalytic converter or spark plug is exponentially less expensive than replacing the entire engine.

Contact APA Total Car Care for Auto Repair in Gilbert, AZ

Let’s get this out of the way—we hope you never need any of the repairs on this list. If you do, you’ll want the experts at APA Total Car Care to be the ones doing the work. 

We offer fast and affordable repair solutions for cars, trucks, SUVs, and more. Our mechanics are trained and skilled at auto repair for both foreign and domestic models. Most importantly, we will partner with you to offer maintenance solutions and key suggestions that can prevent one of these mentioned repairs.

Call APA Total Car Care at 480-539-6872. You can also fill out this appointment form or stop by our shop at 1730 W Sunrise Blvd, Suite A105, Gilbert, AZ 85233.