“Auto repair”, what a chilling topic…the unanswered questions because of how long it might take to get your car repaired, let alone the cost. They are our worst enemy – in the world of cars – so today we are going to talk about the worst auto repairs to deal with. Not only we are talking about how each of these is the worst, but we are also going to tell you how to avoid these issues. Here’s what our Orlando auto service experts told us:
The worst auto repairs to have to deal with and how to fix them
Blown head gasket
A blown head gasket results from overheating most of the time and can lead to leaked coolant in other parts of your car (like the cylinders or oil passages). It can cost between $1,000 to $4,000 to fix it.
The fix: Take precautions to prevent your car from overheating.
Hydrolocked engine
When water gets inside your engine’s cylinders – it usually happens when you drive through deep puddles – and damages the pistons by creating too much pressure, this auto repair is vital. The cost can range from $3,000 to $10,000.
The fix: Avoid driving through the water when you’re not aware of how deep it is, and if there is no way around it – drive very slowly.
Overheated engine
A lot can cause your engine to overheat, but luckily, it gives you warning signs ahead of time. An overheated engine can result in serious damage, including a blown head gasket, a cracked head, or a cracked block. Costs can range from $100 to $10,000.
The fix: Check your oil levels and coolant. Don’t ignore the temperature gauge rising in the dashboard – pull over and get your car towed to Toyota of Orlando so we can get auto repairs started at your convenience.
Bad timing belt
Take our Orlando Toyota auto service repair experts' advice and change your car’s timing belt when it is due. If you do not, it may lead to further broken parts and you will end up spending more money on expensive auto repairs. A broken timing belt can result in costs ranging from $1,500 to $3,500.
The fix: When it’s time to change your timing belt, do it – don’t delay until it’s too late.
Failed transmission
A failed transmission can happen for multiple reasons, including software problems, old age, overheating, or bad driving habits. The fix could be small and inexpensive or large and painful – it really just depends on the reason your transmission failed. The costs range from $300 to upwards of $5,000.
The fix: Stay on top of transmission service and get your multipoint inspections regularly.
Transmission fluid in the brake fluid reservoir
If transmission fluid accidentally finds its way into your brake fluid reservoir and into the brake lines, you’re going to be due for auto repairs – there’s no getting around it. The cost can range anywhere from $800 to $2,000.
The fix: Get routine multi-point inspections and fix any issues with your transmission that your Orlando auto service tech recommends.
Bad computer
When your computer in your car goes bad, it can result in a whole slew of other problems. This is especially true if your computer gets ruined by jump-starting your car because it can result in a blown battery, electrical system damage, or even a fire. The cost to repair can range from $1,000 to…we’re not going to state that…just avoid it at all costs so you don’t have to worry about it.
The fix: Be extra careful when you’re jump-starting your car, and get routine multi-point inspections so our auto service techs can check the computer in your car while they’re at it.
Worn-out clutch
Just like your timing belt, you’ll also have to replace your car’s clutch at some point in life (hopefully much, much later). As you use it, it wears down and loses friction and can’t do its job effectively. The cost to replace a burnt clutch? $1,000 to $2,500.
The fix: Learn how to drive a stick well so you’re not wearing it out fast and if you notice a burning smell, bring your car into Toyota of Orlando so our techs can take a look.
Seized engine from lack of oil
When you are running out of oil your engine has no lubrication and it will get too hot inside. When this happens, all of the parts basically melt and meld together into one abstract piece of metal. Unfortunately, this is irreplaceable and you have to call it a loss.
The fix: Definitely stay on top of your routine oil changes and check the level and condition of your oil every few weeks.
Schedule your auto repairs at Toyota of Orlando today
Have questions about any of the above auto repairs or think you’re due for them? Call Toyota of Orlando today. We’re open seven days a week with the longest service hours in Central Florida – you can reach us at (407) 298-0001. You can also stop by and see us at 3575 Vineland Road, just off I-4 near the Millenia Mall.