Although most auto repair jobs aren't cheap, some are costlier than others. No one wants to hear bad news when they take their car in for service, but in some cases, it's inevitable. In random order, we'll list the most expensive automotive parts to replace.

AC Compressor

A car, truck, or SUV's AC compressor increases the pressure and temperature of vaporized refrigerant. It typically costs upwards of $500 to replace a compressor, and if the system needs additional refrigerant, the job gets more expensive. Visit the website to learn more about buying used parts or selling junk cars for cash.

Brake Lines

A car's brake lines are crucial to its braking system's overall function and performance. These lines use hydraulic fluid and pedal pressure to bring the vehicle to a complete stop and replacing them will cost approximately $1000 if no other parts are needed.

Head Gasket

Pressed between the cylinder head and the engine block, the head gasket facilitates the process of internal combustion while keeping oil and coolant from mixing. While the gasket itself is inexpensive, the work involved in removing the cylinder head and replacing it makes the job costlier. On average, it costs $2000 to replace a head gasket.

Camshaft

The camshaft opens and closes the engine's valves, and without it, the engine may as well be a boat anchor. It may cost up to $3000 to replace a camshaft, including parts, materials, and labor.

Suspension

A vehicle's suspension affects how it rides, providing comfort, stability, and control. It can cost upwards of $3500 to replace a suspension, with shocks, struts, and other parts costing significantly less.

Engine Control Unit

Also known as an ECU, the engine control unit is the "brain" that runs the rest of a vehicle's systems. Today's automotive technicians often say that modern vehicles are difficult to service because they're so computerized, and when the ECU stops working, replacement is the only option. The average ECU replacement costs $500 to $1600, making it quite the costly endeavor.

Airbags

Many people are surprised when they make it through a minor collision in which the airbags deployed, only to find out that it can cost up to $4000 to replace them. The cost of the job is so high that, in some cases, insurance companies write vehicles off as total losses.

Transmission

A vehicle's transmission is one of its most important parts. Without it, you're not going anywhere! Depending on the vehicle's make and model, it may cost $5000 or more to replace the transmission.

Electric or Hybrid Vehicle Battery

EV and hybrid car batteries last about ten years, depending on usage and other factors. Because EV batteries need rare earth elements for proper function, replacing them may cost several thousand dollars. As electric and hybrid vehicles become more common, though, these costs are expected to come down.

The Engine

Of all the parts on our list, the engine is the most expensive to replace. An engine swap may cost $8000 in a small car, and much more in an SUV or truck. In some cases, it's less expensive to buy a new vehicle than it is to replace an engine.

Replace or Salvage? It's Up to You

Whether you're replacing one or more of these parts or selling a non-running vehicle for cash, a local salvage yard can help. Request additional information online or call today to get started.