Denver, October 16 - AAA Colorado has identified four vehicle repairs as being the most costly: engine replacement, automatic transmission rebuild, cooling system failure and brake system problems. Each of these major repairs may be avoided with simple, routine maintenance of your vehicle.

Servicing your vehicle before the winter driving season begins can potentially help avoid a breakdown and costly repairs. Summer heat can be more damaging to vehicles than winter weather. A maintenance inspection now can identify damage caused by this year’s unusually hot summer and get your vehicle prepared for upcoming wet, snowy conditions.

Four Most Expensive Vehicle Repairs and How to Avoid Them

Engine Replacement – Average repair $2,800 to $6,000 or more, depending on the vehicle.

Problem: Most engines have a life expectancy of more than 200,000 miles. Engine failure before that time can usually be blamed on one thing — infrequent maintenance. The most common cause for an engine replacement is running low on oil or a dirty oil filter.

Prevention: Follow the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual. Proper servicing includes oil and filter changes, cooling system flush and air filter replacement. A clean air filter will also help with your vehicle’s mileage.

Automatic Transmission Rebuild – Average repair $2,000 to $5,000

Problem: Transmission failure is most commonly caused by dirty or burnt automatic transmission fluid (ATF). ATF lubricates and cools the transmission’s internal components. During normal use, metallic and fibrous material is deposited into the fluid, diminishing the fluid’s ability to lubricate and control heat. If the ATF and the filter are not replaced, the clogged filter can release the foreign materials into the transmission, shortening transmission life.

Prevention: Again, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations found in your owner’s manual under the heading for Transmission Service. ATF should be clear and red in color.

Cooling System Failures – Average repair $250 to $4,000

Problem: Driving your vehicle while it is overheating is the most common reason for an expensive engine cylinder head or cylinder head gasket replacement. Vehicle overheating is usually caused by a poorly performing radiator, leaky water pump or hose, broken belt or a cooling fan not operating properly.

Prevention: Your cooling system should be flushed every 24 months or approximately every 30,000 miles. Belts and hoses should be inspected as part of every oil change. If your vehicle begins to overheat, indicated by your temperature gauge/light or from steam coming out from under your hood, stop driving immediately. The overheating problem may be small at the onset, but if you continue driving, the damage is likely to become more serious.

Brake System Problems – Average repair $250 to $1,500

Problem: Brake problems can easily escalate from a minor repair to a major repair. Brakes are made to wear out. Often vehicle owner’s wait too long and a simple brake pad or shoe replacement can turn into a costly component replacement.

Prevention: At the first sign of noise from your brakes, have them checked at a reputable repair shop. Many manufacturers design their brakes with tabs that make a noise when the pads are worn, alerting the driver that it’s time to have the brakes replaced.

AAA Colorado has more than 525,000 members in Colorado and is an advocate for safety and security for all travelers. As North America’s largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides nearly 51 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services, as well as member-exclusive savings. AAA can be visited on the Internet at www.AAA.com.