Four car repairs stand out as true budget-breakers: transmission replacement, air conditioning compressor failure, major engine repairs, and suspension or steering system breakdowns. Each of these can cost thousands of dollars, depending on the vehicle.

Labor rates, parts availability, and vehicle complexity all add up, turning a repair that seems manageable into a financial emergency. Without a warranty plan in place, drivers are left deciding between expensive out-of-pocket bills, deferring repairs, or even selling their car prematurely.

This guide walks you through these expensive repairs and how much you can expect to pay for them. You’ll also learn how preventive care and a solid vehicle service contract (or extended warranty) work together to protect your wallet, keep your car reliable, and give you peace of mind on the road.

Repair 1: Transmission Replacement

Few breakdowns strike fear into drivers like transmission failure. This crucial component transfers power from the engine to the wheels. But when it fails, the vehicle often won’t move at all.

Transmission cost estimates:

• Economy sedans: $2,500–$5,000
• SUVs and trucks: $2,800–$6,000+
• High-performance or luxury vehicles: $6,000–$10,000+

According to RepairPal, a transmission replacement is consistently one of the most expensive car repairs, with the overall average cost coming in at between $5,700 and $6,259. Endurance claims data also confirms this, with transmission claims among those that result in the heftiest repair bills.

How Endurance Warranty helps: Plans like Secure, Superior, and Supreme include transmission coverage. Internal parts, torque converters, and transfer cases are all eligible. Whether you’re at a dealership or a certified local shop, claims are paid directly to the facility, so only your deductible needs to leave your wallet.

Repair 2: Air Conditioning Compressor Failures

On hot summer days, losing your A/C is a miserable experience. The most common cause? A failed compressor, which pumps refrigerant through the system.

Air conditioning compressor cost estimates:

• Compressor alone: $954–$1,340
• Full system overhaul with condenser, evaporator, and hoses: $2,000–$3,500

Industry sources show that A/C repairs can exceed $3,000 in some models, particularly when multiple components fail. Unlike cosmetic issues, this isn’t a luxury—it’s an absolute essential when driving in hot climates.

How Endurance Warranty helps: Even our budget-friendly Secure Plus plan includes A/C coverage. Higher tiers cover the entire system, meaning you’ll never suffer through summer because you can’t afford repairs.

Repair 3: Engine Repair or Replacement Costs

Engines are the beating heart of a vehicle, and when they fail, costs skyrocket. From head gasket blowouts to seized pistons, repairs require specialized labor and extensive parts.

Engine repair cost estimates:

• Head gasket replacement: $2,427–$3,190
• Timing chain or camshaft repairs: $1,500–$3,000
• Full engine replacement: $5,000–$10,000+

Without a doubt, an engine rebuild or replacement is one of the priciest repairs a driver can face, with some models costing more than the car’s resale value.

How Endurance Warranty helps: While all plans cover the powertrain, the Superior and Supreme plans look out for an extensive list of engine components, including pistons, valves, camshafts, and oil pumps. Advantage also adds routine service like oil changes, helping prevent some failures before they start.

Repair 4: Suspension and Steering System Repairs

Suspension and steering keep your ride safe, smooth, and controlled. Over time, however, bushings crack, ball joints loosen, and steering racks wear out.

Suspension and steering repair cost estimates:

• Struts/shocks replacement: $1,015–$1,222
• Steering rack: $1,948–$2,363
• Control arm: $749–$895

Suspension and steering work are jobs that drivers often underestimate. While costs can be more affordable for basic cars, the sky is the limit for luxury vehicles, depending on the complexity of the suspension component.

How Endurance Warranty helps: Superior and Supreme coverage includes suspension and steering internals, so unexpected damage doesn’t ruin your budget.

Protecting Yourself with Routine Maintenance

Even with warranty coverage, you can lower the risk of repairs through simple upkeep. Routine care helps prevent avoidable damage and also keeps your warranty coverage intact:

• Fuel filter changes: A fresh fuel filter keeps debris from reaching your injectors and pump. Neglecting it can clog components and burn out the fuel pump, often costing well over $1,000.
• Spark plug replacement: Worn plugs cause misfires that strain ignition coils and damage catalytic converters. Replacing them on schedule protects the engine and preserves fuel economy.
• Oil and fluid checks: Engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant are essential for reliability. Skipping changes can lead to overheating, friction damage, or failures that warranties may not cover.
• Tire rotations and alignments: These inexpensive steps prevent uneven wear and reduce stress on suspension parts. Without them, you risk early strut or ball joint replacements.

Combined with a strong vehicle service contract, these habits give you the best of both worlds: everyday protection through maintenance and financial protection when the worst happens.

Why a Vehicle Service Contract Can Offer Real Savings

Routine maintenance matters, but it can’t protect against every breakdown. That’s why hundreds of thousands of drivers secure a vehicle service contract, commonly known as an extended warranty.

While every vehicle comes with a factory warranty, these are often short-lived, and as soon as they expire, you’re exposed to the financial burden of repair bills. To continue benefitting from the protection and peace of mind you’re accustomed to, you can take out extended coverage with a provider like Endurance, which saves you money by covering the cost of both components and labor.

Endurance has a wide range of auto protection plans designed to cater to almost every driver—whether you’re a casual commuter, a regular roadtripper, or even if you use your vehicle for commercial purposes. The Advantage plan also includes up to $3,500 in routine car maintenance, such as oil changes, brake pads, and battery replacement, making it a unique hybrid of repair coverage and preventative service.

Not only do you get driving confidence from component coverage, you also receive a number of additional money-saving benefits, including but not limited to:

• Access to a nationwide network of certified repair shops
• 24/7 roadside assistance
• Trip-interruption reimbursement if you break down away from home
• Replacement vehicle reimbursement if your car is in the shop for longer

With all of that combined, a vehicle service contract isn’t just insurance against unexpected catastrophe; it’s a practical way to budget for car ownership.

Choosing the Right Warranty Plan

Not all coverage is created equal. Dealership extended warranties often limit you to their service centers and may cost more than third-party contracts. In contrast, companies like Endurance offer flexibility, affordability, and tiered coverage options.

Things to consider when choosing a plan:

• Your vehicle’s age and mileage: High-mileage cars often need more comprehensive coverage.
• Your budget for monthly payments: Endurance plans can be customized to match your finances.
• Preferred repair facilities: Do you want the freedom to use any certified mechanic or stick with a dealership?
• Driving habits: The more often you’re on the road, the more likely you’ll benefit from a higher level of protection
• How long you plan to keep the car: If you plan on holding on to your vehicle for a long time, major repairs will almost certainly be required at some point.

By asking these questions, you can match coverage to your specific situation instead of overpaying or underprotecting.

Look Out for Your Wallet with Protection From Endurance

These four budget-wrecking repairs are common, costly, and often hit when factory coverage has already expired. Without a warranty, many drivers are forced into loans, credit card debt, or even giving up their car completely.

With an Endurance Warranty plan, you don’t have to face those choices. Instead, you get nationwide protection, quality repairs, and added extras like roadside assistance and rental car reimbursement. Plans are also fully customizable, so whether you need basic powertrain protection or more comprehensive coverage, you’ll find something that fits.

If you’d like to learn more about how we can help you keep more money in your pocket, please call an Endurance advisor at (800) 253-8203 or request a FREE quote. You can also shop our eStore to see your plan recommendations and pricing right now.

Visit our extended warranty blog to read more helpful articles just like this one.