Toyota of Orlando talks the nine worst auto repairs to deal with

Having the word “auto repair” on your horizon can lead to a bad case of nerves – and we get it. How much will it cost to fix your car? How long will it take? Today we’re here to talk the worst – the worst auto repairs to deal with, that is. However, we’re not just telling you how much each of them sucks; we’re also here to tell you how to avoid them. Here’s what our Orlando auto service experts have to say about the matter!

9 of the worst auto repairs to have to deal with and how to fix them

#1: Seized engine from lack of oil 

This auto repair is necessary when – due to running out of oil – your engine has no lubrication, gets too hot inside, and all of the parts basically melt and meld together into one glob of metal. There’s no way to fix this, unfortunately, which means you basically have to call it a loss and buy a new car.

The fix: Make sure you stay on top of your routine oil changes and check the level and condition of your oil every few weeks.

#2: 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.

#3: Overheated engine 

Lots of things 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: Keep an eye on your coolant and oil levels. If you see your temperature gauge rising in the dashboard, don’t ignore – it – pull over and have your car towed to Toyota of Orlando so we can get auto repairs started.

#4: 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.

#5: Hydrolocked engine

This auto repair is necessary when water gets inside of your engine’s cylinders and damages the pistons by creating too much pressure. The cost to fix it can be anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000 – so maybe don’t drive through that puddle after all.

The fix: Avoid driving through water when you’re not aware of how deep it is.

#6: Bad timing belt

So here’s the thing: you’ll have to replace your car’s timing belt at some point in its life. That’s just part of driving. However, if you decide not to heed your Orlando Toyota service tech’s advice and change it when it’s due, it can result in a broken timing belt, which can then lead to MORE broken parts and way more 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.

#7:  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.

#8: 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 – it can result in a blown battery, electrical system damage, or even a fire. The cost to repair can range from $1,000 to… you don’t even want to know.

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.

#9: 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.

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.

 

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