Understanding Big-Ticket Repairs and How Regular Maintenance Helps You Avoid Them
When people hear major car repair, they usually think of anything that comes with a big price tag or leaves their vehicle out of commission for days. Generally, a major repair is one that involves:
- Engine replacement or rebuilds
- Transmission repairs or replacements
- Suspension overhauls (shocks, struts, control arms)
- Major brake system failures
- Steering system issues (rack and pinion, power steering pump)
- Electrical system failures
- Cooling system repairs (radiator, water pump, head gasket)
These repairs can cost thousands of dollars depending on your vehicle’s make and model.
Common Major Repairs by Vehicle Type
Ford: Larger vehicles like the F-150 or Explorer often need costly suspension or transmission work if routine maintenance is skipped.
Toyota: Known for reliability, but neglected timing belts, water pumps, or brake systems can still result in major repairs.
Chevy: Silverado and Equinox owners may see engine or suspension issues develop if minor services are overlooked.
How Regular Maintenance Prevents Major Repairs
The good new? Most major repairs start as small issues that can be fixed affordably. Services like brake inspections, suspension checks, steering maintenance, and tune-ups catch early warning signs before they snowball into high-dollar repairs.
- Brakes: Worn pads left unchecked can damage rotors and calipers; turning a $200 service into a $1,000+ repair.
- Suspension: Replacing shocks or struts on time prevents bigger suspension failures and improves safety.
- Steering: A small fluid leak or worn tie rod can become a costly rack-and-pinion replacement if ignored. Regular inspections help you catch problems early.
- Tune-Ups: Fresh spark plugs, filters, and fluid checks keep your engine running smoothly and reduce the risk of misfires or breakdowns.
When to Worry (and When Not To)
Not every strange sound or dashboard light means you’re facing a major repair. Many times, the problem is minor if caught early. That’s why regular inspections and preventative services – like brake checks, suspension maintenance, steering inspections, and tune-ups – are so valuable.
By addressing small issues before they escalate, you can prevent costly major repairs and keep your vehicle running safely and efficiently. Whether you drive a Ford, Toyota, Chevy, or any other make, staying on top of maintenance saves you money and stress and ensures your car is ready for whatever Arizona roads throw your way.
Trust the Mechanics at Precision Tire and Auto Center
At Precision Tire and Auto Center, our ASE-certified mechanics have decades of combined experience diagnosing and preventing major car repairs. From brake service and suspension work to tune-ups and steering system repairs, our team provides reliable auto repair backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile nationwide warranty.
We take pride in being a family-owned shop in Phoenix that treats your car like it’s our own. When you bring in your Ford, Toyota, Chevy, or any other make, you can count on our team to recommend the right maintenance services to protect your vehicle and your wallet.
