Repair Costs

Spark plug replacement cost in 2026: $100–$300 for most 4-cylinders, $200–$600 for V6 and V8 engines, and more when the intake must come off.

CV axle replacement cost in 2026: $250–$700 per side at most shops, $150–$400 for a CV boot, $1,000+ at dealers. CV joint prices, symptoms, savings.

Car AC leak repair cost in 2026: $150–$400 for O-rings and valves, $300–$1,200 for hoses or condensers, $1,000–$2,500+ for evaporators.

Drum brake replacement cost in 2026: $150–$350 for shoes, $300–$600 with new drums, up to $800 for a full rebuild per axle. Signs and savings.

Brake master cylinder replacement cost in 2026: $300–$700 at most independent shops, $600–$1,200 at dealers. Signs, bleeding costs, DIY and savings.

Brake booster replacement cost in 2026: $350–$900 at most independent shops, $1,000–$2,500+ for hydraulic or electric boosters. Signs, tests, savings.

Coolant leak repair cost in 2026: $20 for a cap, $150–$500 for a hose, ~$900–$1,100 for a water pump, $750–$1,850 for a radiator. Find yours and save.

Car dent repair cost in 2026: paintless dent repair $125–$700 per dent, body shop $300–$1,500+ per panel, hail damage $2,500–$10,000+. Insurance tips.

A big repair bill on an old car feels like a reason to replace it — but replacing is never free. Here is the rule mechanics use, the hidden $8,000 of a “cheap” replacement, and the signs your old car is worth the money.

An oil leak repair costs anywhere from $150 for a drain plug gasket to $2,000+ for a rear main seal. Here is the price for each common leak, how to tell them apart by where the oil shows up, and which leaks you can live with.