I'm a Mechanic: 5 Common Issues With Japanese Cars That Could Cost You Big Money Later

Yahoo

08-03-2025

Japanese cars are known for reliability, but that doesn't mean they don't have mechanical issues. In fact, some problems could sneak up on you and could cost you thousands of dollars. Whether you own a Toyota, Honda, Mazda or Subaru, knowing common mechanical issues can help you prevent them before they drain money from your bank account.
GOBankingRates spoke with Chris Pyle, auto mechanic and expert at JustAnswer, who shared five common issues with Japanese cars that could cost you big money down the road.
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A well-maintained Japanese car could last for decades, but when the engine fails or jumps time, this could set you back for thousands. 'If the engine internally fails or jumps time. You're looking at a completely new engine needed, which can be in the $5,000 to $12,000 range,' Pyle said.
Regular maintenance like oil changes and timing belt replacements can help prevent engine failure. Ignoring warning signs, such as unusual noises from the engine, could be the difference between a minor repair and a full engine replacement.
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A failing transmission is one of the most costly repairs in a car. 'Many shops will not attempt to overhaul one of these and only offer a replacement. Also, some manufacturers do not even sell parts to overhaul them. This can run you $4,000 to $7,000,' he said.
Be on the lookout for signs of a failing transmission, such as slipping gears, unusual noises or leaking transmission fluid and get your car checked as soon as you notice any of these.
Your car's heating and air conditioning system might not seem like a critical component until it fails in extreme weather conditions. And if it's a major issue, you could be looking at a bill in the thousands. 'Electronic heating and air conditioning issues are common. These repairs are expensive and often the labor time needed to access and replace the parts is high,' Pyle added.
Most vehicle entertainment systems, like radio, navigation and mobile connectivity, are locked into software, which can often be expensive to fix. 'When they do fail, you're stuck with only being able to use OEM parts and they're not cheap and sometimes hard to get. Radio-related repairs can be $800 to $2,000 for just one part plus the labor and programming needed,' Pyle explained.
'Wheels, although not a common failure or fixed part. It is when you're in a collision or impact a curb. A replacement OEM wheel can be in the $500 range,' Pyle said. If you regularly drive off-road or frequently park near high curbs, keep an eye out for minor wheel damage to prevent more costly replacements.
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