What car repairs cost
Typical labor for 25 common jobs at US shops, plus what the part usually costs. Pick a repair to see what moves the price.
Updated November 2026
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Free to post. Shops bid on labor only.Lights and electrical
| Repair | Labor | Part |
|---|---|---|
| Headlight bulb replacement | $25–$190 | $15–$120 |
| Headlight assembly replacement | $60–$400 | $120–$900 |
| Car battery replacement | $35–$160 | $120–$300 |
| Alternator replacement | $120–$480 | $180–$450 |
| Starter replacement | $120–$480 | $120–$400 |
Maintenance
| Repair | Labor | Part |
|---|---|---|
| Oil change | $35–$80 | $30–$90 |
| Transmission fluid change | $60–$190 | $50–$150 |
Brakes
| Repair | Labor | Part |
|---|---|---|
| Brake pad replacement | $120–$240 | $35–$120 |
| Brake pads and rotors replacement | $180–$400 | $120–$350 |
Tires and suspension
| Repair | Labor | Part |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel alignment | $90–$200 | none |
| Strut replacement | $240–$640 | $200–$600 |
| Wheel bearing replacement | $120–$400 | $70–$250 |
| CV axle replacement | $120–$320 | $80–$250 |
Heating and AC
| Repair | Labor | Part |
|---|---|---|
| Car AC recharge | $60–$160 | $30–$150 |
| AC compressor replacement | $300–$720 | $250–$700 |
Engine
| Repair | Labor | Part |
|---|---|---|
| Spark plug replacement | $95–$400 | $30–$120 |
| Serpentine belt replacement | $50–$160 | $25–$75 |
| Timing belt replacement | $360–$960 | $120–$350 |
| Fuel pump replacement | $180–$640 | $150–$500 |
Cooling
| Repair | Labor | Part |
|---|---|---|
| Water pump replacement | $180–$720 | $60–$250 |
| Radiator replacement | $180–$480 | $150–$450 |
| Thermostat replacement | $95–$320 | $25–$90 |
Exhaust
| Repair | Labor | Part |
|---|---|---|
| Catalytic converter replacement | $120–$400 | $300–$1,500 |
| O2 sensor replacement | $50–$190 | $40–$200 |
Diagnostics
| Repair | Labor | Part |
|---|---|---|
| Check engine light diagnostic | $60–$240 | none |