The most talked about auto repairs involve a vehicle’s three most important systems: the engine, transmission, and electrical system.

How expensive? You can ask. Well, to give you an idea, for example, these repairs are among the top 10 most expensive repairs you can expect on many models today:

• Engine overhaul or replacement: Cost: $3,000 to $7,000+
• Transmission repair or replacement: Cost: $1,800 to $5,000+
• Hybrid or electric battery replacement: Cost: $2,000 to $8,000+
• Turbocharger Replacement: Cost: $2,000 to $6,000+
• Head Gasket Replacement: Cost: $1,500 to $3,000+
• Suspension system repairs (air suspension): Cost: $1,000 to $4,000+
• Timing Belt or Chain Replacement: Cost: $500 to $2,000+
• Fuel Injector Replacement: Cost: $1,000 to $2,500+
• Catalytic converter replacement: Cost: $900 to $2,500+
• A/C Compressor Replacement: Cost: $1,200 to $2,000+

Why are repairs so expensive?

Several factors can make these repairs so expensive, such as complicated disassemblyusing strictly Original parts rather than used or aftermarket partsas well as the garage’s expertise and level of diagnostic tools.

This is especially true for sensors in modern security systems, which must be recalibrated using an expensive scan tool when disconnected for disassembly.

In a sense, not only does your repair bill pay for the parts and labor (including time), but you also help the garage recoup the cost of the diagnostic equipment needed so you can get your car back as quickly as possible.

As you can see from the list, an overhaul/rebuild or total motor replacement is about as bad as having to replace the battery on some EV models.

Related article: Why Car Maintenance and Repair Is So High Today, Says This Mechanic

Avoiding the reliable and the unreliable

While ensuring your car is properly maintained will go a long way toward avoiding many costly repairs, the fact is that some models are more prone to problems than others, regardless of brand. As we learned recently this year, even Toyota has its occasional model issues.

To help you avoid the most unreliable cars classified as those that might not reach at least 100,000 miles, here is a recent update of the Automotive help corner YouTube channel where the host alerts consumers to brands and models identified by Auto Help Canada. A nonprofit organization that advocates for consumers and lobbies government on behalf of consumers.

You can follow the host in the video posted below or save time by skipping to the summary of these patterns and the issues you want to avoid.

Worst Engines Failing 100,000 Miles || DO NOT BUY!

Video summary of the worst engines

1. Ford EcoBoost 3-cylinder turbo engines“The 1L and 1.5L engines found in the Ford Escape and Bronco Sport models are the most problematic when it comes to engine problems. The 2L and 2.3L 4-cylinder models are a bit better but still have their own engine issues with coolant leaks and intrusion, as well as head gasket issues. However, the 2.7L 6-cylinder EcoBoost engines used in trucks are much better, with the exception of the 3.5L EcoBoost trucks, which are notorious for timing chain and cam phaser failure issues. .
2. GM 3.6L V6 and 2.4L Turbo 4-Cylinder Engines“Timing chain failure, excessive oil burning, water pump and head gasket problems led mechanics surveyed to adamantly advise consumers to avoid models equipped with these engines at all costs.
3. Audi and Volkswagen with their 4-cylinder turbocharged engines“According to the mechanics’ investigation, earlier 2L engines have a high premature failure rate which occurs just after the end of the warranty period. Newer Volkswagen models with 1.4L and 1.5L turbocharged engines are also considered ones to avoid due to a wide range of customer complaints, including oil and coolant leaks, electronic and ignition system failures, as well as turbocharger and timing chain. breakdowns that can destroy the engine before the vehicle reaches six figures. They are also expensive engines to work on.
4. BMW biturbo V8 engines“Avoid the X5, valve stem seals, timing chain failure, oil. and coolant leak issues. Expect 4 figure repairs that never seem to resolve repair issues. However, the current generation of straight-six used by BMW since 2017 seems much more reliable and less problematic but remains expensive to maintain and repair.
5. Mini Cooper with the turbocharged 4-cylinder engine“Especially older models before 2015, known to be prone to oil consumption, carbon buildup, oil starvation, timing chain issues, turbo failure, water pump failure and many other problems that can lead to total engine failure. Newer mini models made after 2016 are much better, but maintenance and repair costs have been high since BMW made them.
6. Fiat with the 1.4L 4-cylinder engine– Models equipped with this engine are subject to oil consumption, timing belt failure, piston failure and burned piston rings, damaged valves, turbo failure, and many other non-engine related problems.
7. Jaguar and Land Rover with supercharged V6 and V8 engines“Prone to several issues including timing chain failure, oil and coolant leaks, seal failures, oil consumption, compressor issues, water pump failure and several other more minor problems with high repair costs, “these engines are money pit cars,” the mechanics said. in the investigation.
8. Hyundai and Kia with 4-cylinder engines from 2011 to 2021– “The scale of engine failures on these vehicles is unfathomable, certainly unmatched by any manufacturer in modern history,” says the host. Plagued by numerous recalls, both are prone to problems with oil consumption, engine knocking and check engine lights, which are often linked to connecting rod or crank failure. On newer engines, piston ring failure often occurs well before 100,000 miles.

A Special Note About Listed Vehicles

While some consumers may take offense to certain models on the list, it’s important to note that the host points out that following the best maintenance can delay the onset of reported issues with each brand. The exception was Hyundai and Kia, where good maintenance alone was not enough.

For additional articles on how to avoid models with known problem engineshere are three to help you search for a reliable vehicle during your next car buying search:

Timothy Boyer is a Cincinnati-based automotive journalist who currently researches and works on restoring older vehicles with engine modifications to improve performance. He also reports on modern cars (including electric vehicles) with a focus on DIY mechanics, buying and using tools, and other auto repair-related news. Follow Tim on Twitter at @TimBoyerWrites as well as on Facebook and his automotive blog “Zen and the art of DIY auto repair” for helpful daily news and topics related to new and used cars and trucks.

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