The Cost of Avoiding Expensive Future Repairs
You'll probably factor in your monthly car payment, the price of gas, tolls, and auto insurance when creating a budget for the cost of a car. When estimating the cost of owning a car, remember to account for how much you'll spend on routine maintenance.
Routine auto maintenance is essential for the health and durability of your vehicle, even though it's probably not top of mind when determining your transportation budget. It may assist you in avoiding future expensive repairs (and paying for a rental while your car is in the shop).
Here is an illustration of how much it should cost to maintain a car on average, along with information on how frequently and how much each service should cost.
Key Takeaways
- Regular auto maintenance is essential for the health and durability of your car and can save you money on future expensive repairs.
- According to AAA research, a new car's routine maintenance and repairs may cost an average of $0.09 per mile.
- Regular auto maintenance includes oil changes, battery replacement, brake pad replacement, tire rotation, and more.
- To help you plan and save, don't forget to include the typical car maintenance cost in your annual budget.
The Basics
The average cost of owning a car ranges from $6,354 for a small sedan to $10,054 for a pickup truck, but you might be surprised by the projected cost of normal maintenance. According to AAA research, a new car's routine maintenance and repairs may cost an average of $0.09 per mile.
It costs $900 to travel 10,000 miles in a year. This amount increases to $1,800 per year if you drive 20,000 miles. Budgeting for these costs is crucial for this reason.
Generally speaking, you ought to prepare to assess the following things for potential maintenance every year:
- Oil change
- Windshield wiper replacement
- New battery
- Brake pad replacement
- Tire rotation or replacement
For the kind of standard maintenance required by your particular vehicle, consult the owner's manual.
Of course, don't overlook paying attention to the subtle cues your car gives you when something may require your attention. For instance, screeching brakes, unusual engine noises, and a blinking check engine light are all indications that your automobile may need maintenance.
Oil Change
On most newer cars, experts advise changing your oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles; however, older vehicles can need more frequent replacements. Depending on how often and how far you drive, you'll need to take care of this routine maintenance item at various intervals.
Even if you don't exceed the required mileage, you should still replace your car's oil once every year to keep it in good condition.
The standard for oil changes was around 3,000 miles, but new vehicle technology has raised that number. When using entirely synthetic oil, a car engine may be able to run 10,000 miles or longer between oil changes.
The typical price range for an oil change is $25 to $55. The cost may rise to between $45 and $75 if synthetic oil is used.
Windshield Wiper Replacement
Driving in the rain and discovering that your car's windshield wipers aren't functioning as they should is the worst possible situation. To avoid problems, you should change your wipers every six to twelve months or as soon as you see issues.
If you pay for labor, replacing a wiper will cost less than $85. You can save $25 or more if you purchase the blades and install them yourself.
New Battery
The battery in your automobile needs to be replaced roughly every three to five years. Still, the exact time frame will depend on several external factors, such as how often your car is driven in extreme heat or cold or left idle. The interior lighting in your car can also deplete the battery if you constantly leave them on.
Depending on the type and model, the quality of the battery you purchase, and your location, replacing the battery in your car might cost anywhere from $60 to $200.
Brake Pad Replacement
Depending on how frequently you use your brakes, you may need to replace your brake pads more frequently. This routine upkeep is a little more difficult in terms of timeframe. For instance, it can depend on how much of your driving is in the city versus the interstate. In general, city drivers will need to replace their brake pads more frequently than those who live in rural areas or mostly use freeways.
These fixes will also be influenced by how you drive. You will need to replace your brake pads more frequently than a driver who tends to allow more space and stop gradually if you frequently stop abruptly, tailgate, or ride your brakes while driving.
When your brake pads need to be repaired, there will be a few telltale indicators. When you press the brakes, your automobile could first make a screaming noise. If you have a modern automobile, the indicator light will turn on to let you know it's time to take it to the mechanic.
For all four wheels, brake pads typically cost between $35 and $150; when labor is added, the cost per axel rises to $115 to $270. Your location, the automobile's make and model, the brake pads you use, and whether you need to replace the brake pads on both axles or just one will affect how much you pay.
Rotate or Replace Tires
Did you know that having tires with a tread depth of 4/32 inches or less can result in an 87-foot increase in stopping distance on wet highways? You should replace your tires if their treads get to that depth.
No matter how many miles you've driven, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) advises replacing your tires every six years if you need a more precise time frame. Depending on the tire quality you purchase, and the make and model of your automobile, replacing all four tires might cost between $400 and $1,800.
Thousands of miles can extend the lifespan of your tires by maintaining correct inflation.
Another crucial aspect of maintenance is tire rotation. Every 5,000 to 8,000 miles should be checked, costing $35 to $45. However, some technicians or dealers will execute it for free if you have other repairs done to your car. To extend the life of your tires, you should also bear in mind that you'll occasionally need to balance and align the tires on your car.
Saving Money on Car Maintenance
You might be wondering how you might (safely) save money when thinking about the expense of obligatory car maintenance. There are several strategies to reduce car expenses, which is good news.
While taking your automobile to the dealer for routine maintenance could be appealing, it might not always be the most cost-effective option. Look for coupons and shop for the greatest deals on these necessities of upkeep.
AAA provides a list of approved auto repair shops to ensure you're working with Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certified mechanics while having your car serviced or repaired.
If you're handy, you might think about performing part of the upkeep on your automobile. For instance, you can reduce some of the costs connected with these normal maintenance items by changing your automobile's oil and oil filter at home.
Whatever you choose, keep in mind to include the typical cost of auto maintenance in your annual budget to help you plan and save.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How frequently should I service my car?
Your maintenance schedule is determined by your driving habits, how much you drive, the weather where you live, and the manufacturer's recommendations. Plan your trips to the technician (or your garage) in accordance with the recommended maintenance intervals listed in your owner's manual.
Why is it vital to maintain your car?
Because it averts more costly repairs, dangerous problems, and other problems down the road, vehicle maintenance is crucial. For example, skipping oil changes can result in serious engine issues, and worn tires or brakes are serious safety risks. If you don't take care of your car, it will age more quickly and be worth less when you try to sell it.
