5 Average Vehicle Maintenance Costs

Man working under the hood of a car, conducting vehicle maintenance.

 

Purchasing a new or used vehicle is often one of the largest investments you'll make, but the spending doesn't end there. Car ownership comes with routine maintenance expenses that involve things like oil changes, flat tires, brake pads, new tires, tire rotations, cabin air filters, and wheel alignments. Then, there are auto repairs that you’ll need that you totally weren’t expecting. Some of these issues are transmission repair, car bodywork after an accident, and a number of others. These issues might require you to secure an installment loan.

Sometimes it’s simply too expensive to fix a vehicle and not worth it. A common guideline is that if the cost of repairs exceeds half the vehicle’s value, it’s probably more economical to consider purchasing a new car, truck, van, or motorcycle. A vehicle owner should consider a car’s age, mileage, frequency of repairs, and any sentimental value it might hold. The most costly repairs that can spring up on a vehicle owner typically involve the engine or transmission. Engine repairs can range from $2,500 to $4,000, while a transmission replacement can cost up to $7,000, depending on the vehicle and your location.

Here are some auto maintenance needs and their cost.

1. Tire Rotations

Tire rotations typically cost around $60 and you should bring your car into the shop every 5,000 to 8,000 miles to get them done. Although some vehicles, like those with all-wheel drive, may require rotations more frequently—every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Regular tire rotations are important because they promote even tire wear, extend tire life, improve handling, enhance fuel efficiency, and increase overall vehicle safety, ultimately saving you money. Some auto repair shops offer deals when you get both an oil change and tire rotation, but it might not always make sense to do.

2. Oil Changes

Most mechanics suggest getting an oil change every 5,000 to 15,000 miles or every 3 to 12 months, depending on your vehicle's specifications, the type of oil used, and driving conditions. If your drive to and from work is often in serious traffic then your vehicle burns extra oil. Just something to think about!

It’s not easy to pinpoint exactly how much your oil change should cost. They typically range from $35 to $125 according to Kelley Blue Book. Here’s why it’s tough to settle on the price of your vehicle’s oil change – it depends on your location and vehicle model. Plus, you need to factor in whether your car requires synthetic oil, which is more expensive but lasts longer than conventional oil. Synthetic oil is more expensive but it lasts longer.

3. New Tires

It’s no secret that tires are a really important component of car maintenance. Tires affect safety, efficiency, and performance. Tires need to be in good condition so you and your passengers stay safe on the road, but here’s the kicker, replacing tires can be really expensive. This is especially the case if your budget doesn’t have room for the expense. How much do tires cost though? This isn’t an easy question to answer. Tire prices vary widely based on the size, type, and brand.

Here are the costs of four different types of tires:

  • All-Season: This is the most common type of tire. All-season tires are usually more affordable, ranging from $70 to $300 per tire. They’re suitable for most weather conditions, which is why they’re the most popular.
  • All-Terrain: They are typically used by drivers who go off-road. These tires offer enhanced traction on various surfaces, with prices from $130 to $500 per tire.
  • Performance: When you have a luxury vehicle, you’ll want tires that match. These are designed for optimal handling. The price ranges from $100 to $1,000 for each tire.
  • Snow Tires: Fans of snow tires live in the north of the U.S. They’re built for icy and snowy conditions by doing a good job gripping to the road. They range from $55 to $1,000 for each tire.

4. Windshield Wipers

We’re all familiar with windshield wipers, and many of us take them for granted. It just seems like an obvious feature that every car should have. Windshield wiper blades are essential for maintaining visibility in adverse weather conditions. Though a relatively small component of vehicle maintenance, wipers play a critical role in safety. The average cost for wiper blades ranges from $23 to $38, depending on the brand and quality. While windshield wipers are inexpensive and easy to replace, they shouldn’t be overlooked in your regular maintenance routine. Many cars, like SUVs, also have a rear wiper blade that also needs replacing after a while.

5. Cabin Air Filters

While often overlooked because it doesn't directly affect vehicle performance, a clean cabin air filter improves comfort during drives and is relatively easy to replace by yourself. When the air in your vehicle seems stale, it’s time to look into a new filter. These filters should be replaced annually. If you do a lot of driving then you should think about replacing your cabin air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles. Those who suffer from allergies should keep this routine auto maintenance at the top of mind as your filter can provide some relief from allergies coming from the outdoors. When replacing your filter, check behind your glove compartment, because this is where most vehicles house their cabin filter. These filters usually go for $20 to $50, depending on how nice of a filter you want/need.

If you find yourself needing help with unexpected car problems, consider exploring financing options with a reliable provider. They can help you manage unexpected expenses and get back on the road quickly. Apply for an Xact installment loan today!