Report Details “Check Engine” Repair Costs

A glowing "check engine" light on the dashboard is one of the realities of vehicle ownership. A report from Irvine, Calif.-based CarMD Corp. says how you respond can make a difference in repair costs.

The online repair referral service says the best way to keep costs in check is to fix the problem as soon as you're aware of it rather than ignoring the warning light. It says prompt action can improve your car's fuel economy and reduce the risks of more costly repairs later

The cheapest fixes account for more than 11% of vehicle repairs, and the most expensive are needed in less than 1% of repairs, according to the study. It says 5% of check-engine-light repair issues can be fixed for free.

Here are the most common engine repair issues and their average costs, according to CarMD:

• Replace oxygen sensor $259
• Replace catalytic converter $1,150
• Tighten or replace fuel cap free in most cases
• Replace spark plugs and ignition coils $414
• Replace ignition coils $247
• Replace mass air flow sensor $409
• Replace spark plugs and wires $362
• Replace thermostat $213
• Replace exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve $350
• Replace fuel injectors $554