The 'Too Expensive to Fix' Point: Generally, if the cost of a repair exceeds the value of the car, it's probably not worth it. Say your old car is worth about $3,000, and it needs a new transmission that's going to cost $4,000. In this case, you're better off not doing the repair.

An Engine Replacement Or Rebuild If more than a few engine parts need repairing, it's called a “blown engine.” Fully replacing a blown engine will typically set you back anywhere from $5,000 – $10,000. Replacing the engine in some cars can even run upward of $16,000.

Accurate, comprehensive data builds credibility RepairPal offers a fair price guarantee on all of its estimates. The company has very few pricing issues with more than 250,000 estimates delivered each month.