If you’ve had your Ford or any vehicle repaired recently, you may have noticed that the price was higher than expected. You’re not alone—car repair costs have skyrocketed. In fact, the Wall Street Journal reports that vehicle repairs have increased by 28% over the past three years, with the average repair cost for an insurance claim reaching $4,721 in the second quarter of this year. So, why are repairs becoming more expensive, and what can you do to keep costs down? Let’s break it down.
Why Are Car Repairs Getting More Expensive?
Modern vehicles are more sophisticated than ever, featuring advanced safety and driver-assistance technology. Features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane centering, and reversing cameras are designed to keep you safe, but they also add complexity to vehicle repairs. Here are some key reasons why repair costs are rising:
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Advanced Technology: Cars today are equipped with numerous sensors and computers. These components require recalibration after even minor accidents, driving up labor and parts costs. For example, more than one-quarter of insurance claim repairs in 2024 included sensor recalibration—up from just 5% four years ago.
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Increased Labor Costs: Mechanics now need specialized training to repair high-tech vehicles, which means labor costs have risen. Diagnosing and fixing an issue takes longer when dealing with intricate computer systems.
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Higher Insurance Costs: Auto insurance premiums have risen significantly, and filing a claim can make your premiums even more expensive. The more costly it is to repair vehicles, the more insurance rates will rise.
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Parts Are More Expensive: Consider a side-view mirror on a Ford Escape. In 2014, replacing a standard mirror cost around $200 to $400, including labor. In 2024, that same mirror may include a camera, lane-change sensors, and a heating element, pushing the total repair cost to $1,200–$1,500.
How to Keep Car Repair Costs Down
While repair costs are rising, there are steps you can take to minimize expenses and avoid costly surprises. Accidents can happen and there is no way to keep collision costs down, with the many safety features on Ford vehicles, it helps to mitigate your risks.
1. Stay on Top of Preventative Maintenance
One of the best ways to avoid expensive repairs is by keeping up with routine maintenance. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections can help catch minor issues before they turn into major problems. A well-maintained car is less likely to suffer from sudden breakdowns that require costly repairs. Visit our service center here to learn more about Ford services for your car.
2. Fix Small Issues Before They Get Worse
If you notice a warning light on your dashboard or hear an unusual noise, don’t ignore it. Addressing minor problems early can prevent them from turning into more extensive, costly repairs down the road.
3. Use a Certified Mechanic
Not all mechanics have the expertise to work on today’s sophisticated vehicles. Bringing your car to a certified Ford mechanic at our dealership near Macon, Madison and Greensboro ensures that trained professionals using the right tools and parts are servicing your vehicle. Our technicians understand the complexities of modern Ford vehicles and can provide high-quality repairs that help protect your investment. You can schedule a service appointment here. We even will come to your home or work within 50 miles of Milledgeville dealership.
4. Consider an Extended Warranty or Maintenance Plan
Investing in an extended warranty or prepaid maintenance plan can help offset some of the costs associated with major repairs. These plans can provide coverage for expensive components and routine service, saving you money over time. Or look into our Vehicle Upgrade Program.
5. Be Cautious with Insurance Claims
Since insurance premiums are rising, consider whether a repair is worth filing a claim for. If the cost is close to your deductible, paying out of pocket might prevent your premiums from increasing.
Bring Your Vehicle to Our Certified Ford Service Center
With vehicle repairs becoming more expensive, trusting your car to expert hands is more important than ever. Our Ford dealership’s certified service center in Macon, Madison, and Greensboro, GA, is staffed with experienced mechanics who specialize in Ford vehicles. We use OEM parts, advanced diagnostic tools, and manufacturer-approved procedures to ensure your vehicle is repaired correctly and efficiently.
Don’t wait for a costly repair to catch you off guard—schedule your next service appointment with us today to keep your vehicle in top shape and your repair costs down!