How to Save Money on Car Repairs
Written by Team Clearcover
At Clearcover, we're all about helping you save money. Our AI-driven technology allows us to offer just-right rates on car insurance, and our value-adding services, like Car Care, help you take the savings beyond your insurance policy. Car Care is our way of giving you inside access to discounts on car repairs.
If you don't live in a state where Car Care is available or aren't a Clearcover customer, don’t worry—we're not leaving you out. First, we'll look at tips anyone can use when they’re facing costly repairs. Then, we’ll dive into the five most common car repairs and ways to save on each.
What to Do When Car Repairs Are Too Expensive
If you're up against expensive car repairs, there are a few things you can do to try and save money.
Try to DIY
If you've got some basic knowledge about car repairs, or even just a willingness to learn, you may be able to save some money by tackling the problem yourself. Be sure to do your research first and make sure you understand what you're getting into. The last thing you want to do is make a problem worse or put yourself in danger.
Opt for a Professional Mechanic at a Local Shop
If you decide that the repair is beyond your capabilities, your best bet is to take your vehicle to a professional mechanic. Local shops are usually a good option as they can often give you a better price than a dealership.
Get Quotes from Multiple Shops
If you've decided to take your car to a professional, get quotes from a few different places before you make your decision. This will help ensure that you're getting a fair price for the repair. If you have access to Car Care from Clearcover, you can enjoy discounts on many repair and maintenance services at more than 23,000 maintenance shops throughout the U.S.
5 Common (and Costly) Car Repairs
Some repairs are much more common than others. In this article, we’ll skip over the less expensive routine maintenance services like oil changes and tire rotations so we can cover some of the bigger saving opportunities. We’ll focus on the car maintenance services that are likely to cost more than $100.
1. Replacing Brake Pads and Discs
The lifespan of your brakes will generally range from 25,000 to 75,000 miles. This lifespan range is so wide because it can vary based on things like driving habits, climate, and the quality of the brake pads. You'll know it's time to replace your brake pads (or have a mechanic take a look at them) when your car starts making a high-pitched screeching noise when you brake.
The average cost to replace both the front and back brake pads and discs is between $330 and $500. The cost can rise up to $800 if you need to replace calipers or rotors in addition to pads and discs. You can save some money by only replacing the front or back brakes, but most mechanics will recommend replacing all four at once for the best results.(1)
If you're feeling handy, you can replace your own brake pads relatively easily. This is one car care project where choosing the DIY option may be worth the effort, as you could save up to 50% off by handling it yourself.
Cost: $300 to $800
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
DIY savings: 50%
DIY Worthy: You can save big by doing this one yourself.
Video: How to perform a brake job
2. Replacing the Catalytic Converter
The catalytic converter is one of the most important emission control devices in your car and is required by law in many states. It transforms harmful pollutants in exhaust gas into less harmful substances before they're released into the atmosphere.
You'll know it's time to replace your catalytic converter when your "check engine" light comes on or if your car starts running rough or losing power.
Depending on the make and model of your car, the cost to replace a catalytic converter can range from $300 to $2,500. Because it's such an important part of your car's emission control system, we recommend letting a professional handle the job.(2)
That doesn't mean there aren't smart ways to save on this big expense. Catalytic converters are highly targeted by thieves because of the value of the metal inside them. If you live in a populous or high-crime area, consider investing in a catalytic converter theft deterrent or creating one on your own.
Cost: $300 to $2,500
Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
DIY savings: 0%
DIY Worthy: We recommend letting a professional handle this job.
3. Replacing the Oxygen Sensor
The oxygen sensor monitors the amount of unburned oxygen in your car's exhaust and adjusts the air-fuel mixture to keep things running efficiently.
You may need to replace your oxygen sensor if your "check engine" light comes on or if you notice a decrease in fuel economy.
The cost to replace an oxygen sensor ranges from $250 to $600, depending on the make and model of your car. This is a repair that can usually be handled by a mechanic, but some automakers include detailed instructions for replacing an oxygen sensor in their owner's manuals. If you're feeling handy, this is a repair you may be able to tackle yourself.(3)
Cost: $250 to $650
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
DIY savings: 40%
DIY Worthy: You can save about 40% by doing your oxygen sensor yourself, but it doesn't usually make sense unless you're already familiar with some of the smaller components of your engine.
4. Replacing the Alternator
The alternator is a crucial component as it amplifies your battery's power. It is responsible for charging your car's battery and powering the electrical system while the engine is running. You'll want to consider replacing your alternator if your car starts having trouble starting or if you notice dimming lights or strange noises coming from the engine compartment.
The cost to replace an alternator ranges widely from $100 to $1,000. One of the biggest factors that will determine both cost and whether or not a DIY approach makes sense for this repair is the placement of your alternator. In some cars, the alternator is easy to access and can be replaced with little more than a socket wrench. Others may require special tools and the help of a professional.(4)
Cost: $100 to $1,000
Difficulty: Easy to Difficult
DIY savings: 60%
DIY Worthy: This is a great DIY project if your vehicle offers easy access to your alternator. If not, it is best to turn to a professional.
Video: How to replace an alternator
5. Replacing the Starter Motor
The starter motor is what gets your engine going when you turn the key in the ignition.
If your car won't start, or if it starts but stalls soon after, it could be time to replace the starter motor.
The cost to replace a starter motor ranges from $110 up to $1,100. This repair can become a little more involved than some of the others on this list, but if you're feeling confident it could be a great DIY project.(5)
Cost: $110 to $1,100
Difficulty: Moderate
DIY savings: 30%
DIY Worthy: This is a repair that can be done by most people with some basic tools and knowledge.
Keep the Savings Rolling
No one likes having to deal with car repairs, but you can make the process a little less stressful by being prepared and knowing your options.
Our policies offer great coverage with clear terms. Plus—our Car Care program provides discounts on repairs and maintenance at more than 23,000 shops nationwide (only available in Illinois, Indiana, Utah, Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Arizona). Get a quote today to see how much you could save with Clearcover.
Sources
AutoZone. “How Much Does it Cost to Replace Brakes” accessed September 2022 from https://www.autozone.com/diy/brakes/brake-replacement-cost
AutoZone. “How Much Does a Catalytic Converter Replacement Cost?” accessed September 2022 from https://www.autozone.com/diy/exhaust/how-much-does-a-catalytic-converter-replacement-cost
Haynes. “Oxygen Sensor Replacement” accessed September 2022 from https://haynes.com/en-au/tips-tutorials/oxygen-sensor-replacement
AutoZone. “How Much Does an Alternator Replacement Cost?” accessed September 2022 from https://www.autozone.com/diy/battery/battery-charging/alternator-replacement-cost
Autozone. “How Much Does a Starter Replacement Cost?” accessed September 2022 from https://www.autozone.com/diy/starter/starter-replacement-cost
