The average cost to fix a "check engine" light is at a record high according to a newly released study from CarsMD. Its 2026 CarMD Vehicle Health Index report reveals that the average cost to address a check engine light climbed to a record $554 in 2025, a 33% increase over 2024. CarsMD attributes the rise in costs to increases in car repair parts and labor.
Labor and Parts Costs Up in 2025
According to CarsMD, labor costs are up 51%, driven by more time-intensive procedures and increasingly complex systems. Parts costs are up 23% due to multiple factors that include material pricing, multi-component repairs, and, in some cases, tariffs of imported components being passed on to consumers. CarsMD says these factors, combined with the aging U.S. vehicle fleet, contributed to the highest repair costs recorded since it started publishing its annual study of check engine repair trends.
“Keeping up with routine maintenance and addressing dashboard warning lights early are two simple ways to help keep your vehicle running safely and efficiently as it ages,” said David Rich, CarMD vice president of automotive technology. “Even small issues can reduce fuel economy, which is something drivers are paying close attention to as gas prices rise.”
Breakdown of the 10 Most Common Dashboard Warning Light Repairs in 2025
1. Catalytic Converter, $1,511
2. Oxygen (O₂) Sensor, $287
3. Ignition Coil & Spark Plug(s), $480
4. Mass Air Flow (MAF) Sensor Replacement, $346
5. Ignition Coil, $256
6. EVAP Canister Purge Control Valve, $172
7. Fuel Injector(s), $572
8. ABS Wheel Speed Sensor, $314
9. Thermostat, $324
10. Spark Plug(s), $299
CarMD says its data underlines how you can save money by addressing small problems, but if those problems are neglected it can lead to more expensive repairs. CarMD also points out that many of these issues are interconnected. For instance, unresolved misfires or faulty oxygen sensors can eventually damage the catalytic converter – which is one of the priciest components to replace.
You also have to think about fuel economy. Ignoring a failing oxygen sensor can hurt your car’s MPG by as much as 40% according to CarMD, without you even realizing it because you think the vehicle is driving okay.
Safety-Related Warning Lights Are Becoming More Common
Also of note, this year’s Index shows a noticeable rise in diagnosis of dashboard alerts tied to safety systems. For the first time ever, the ABS wheel speed sensor appears in the national Top 10 list which CarsMD says indicates more diagnosis of issues connected to braking and traction-control systems. TPMS (tire pressure) sensors also remain among the most frequent repairs, reinforcing the importance of proper tire-pressure monitoring.
Aging Fleet Plays a Big Role
CarMD says the average vehicle age in the U.S. reached 12.8 years, an all-time high that continues to shape car repair trends. As you'd expect, older vehicles with more miles will need more repairs as components like ignition coils, spark plugs, oxygen sensors, thermostats and mass air flow sensors naturally wear out. This in turn triggers more dashboard warning lights and a greater likelihood of multi-part repairs when maintenance is ignored or postponed.
Proactive Tools Help Drivers Stay Ahead of Problems
The good news in all this is that car owners have more tools than ever to avoid costly repairs. Free diagnostic scans are offered by many auto parts retailers and they can help identify potential issues. CarMD also has a tool called CarMD Connect that provides near-real-time vehicle health alerts, estimated repair costs and maintenance reminders through a plug-in device and free mobile app. This can help drivers catch problems early.
Special Feature: Van Life Repair Trends
CarMD expanded its Index this year by adding a new national review of repair trends for van life platforms. This includes the Mercedes Sprinter, Ram ProMaster and Ford Transit. CarMD says its analysis shows these Class B RVs experience elevated stress for a number of reasons: long-distance travel, heavy builds, higher loads and exposure to wide temperature changes. All of which leads to more frequent and expensive repairs compared with typical passenger vehicles, including more turbo and diesel issues, and higher transmission failures. The report breaks down differences in failure types by platform. CarMD calls these insights especially timely as more travelers shop for, budget and prepare their vans for spring and summer road trips.
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