Auto Parts Knowledge Database

    What it does, when it fails, what it costs, and how long it lasts — for every major car and truck component.

    electrical (3)

    Alternator
    $250–$850 · 80,000-150,000 miles or 7-10 years
    Starter Motor
    $200–$750 · 100,000-150,000 miles
    Vehicle Battery
    $130–$350 · 3-5 years (2-4 in hot climates)

    brakes (2)

    Brake Pads
    $150–$450 · 30,000-70,000 miles (city) / 50,000-80,000 (highway)
    Brake Rotors
    $200–$700 · 50,000-80,000 miles (often replaced with pads)

    engine (7)

    Turbocharger
    $1200–$4500 · 100,000-180,000 miles (longer with strict oil-change intervals)
    Spark Plugs
    $80–$450 · Copper 20k-30k mi; platinum 60k-80k mi; iridium 100k-120k mi
    Ignition Coils
    $80–$600 · 80,000-120,000 miles
    A/C Compressor
    $700–$1800 · 100,000-150,000 miles
    Serpentine Belt
    $120–$400 · 60,000-100,000 miles
    Catalytic Converter
    $900–$2800 · 100,000-150,000 miles
    Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)
    $1500–$6000 · 150,000-300,000 miles (cleanable, eventually replaced)

    cooling (3)

    Water Pump
    $350–$1100 · 80,000-120,000 miles (often replaced with timing belt)
    Radiator
    $450–$1400 · 80,000-150,000 miles
    Thermostat
    $150–$500 · 80,000-120,000 miles

    fuel (2)

    Fuel Injectors
    $350–$2200 · 100,000-150,000 miles (less on dirty fuel)
    Fuel Pump
    $450–$1400 · 100,000-150,000 miles

    sensors (1)

    Oxygen (O2) Sensor
    $250–$600 · 60,000-100,000 miles

    suspension (1)

    Shock Absorbers & Struts
    $350–$1500 · 50,000-80,000 miles