How Much Does Car Door Repair Cost?
A car door can be repaired for many reasons. Whether it’s a dent in the side door, a large scratch or a door that doesn’t shut right, all of these problems can be resolved for a price.
How much does a car door repair cost?
The cost of car door repair will all depend on the job being completed. Something as simple as a small dent can be repaired for as little as $150 while replacing the entire door could cost as much as $1,000 or more.
Repairing a car dent, for example, will all depend on the size of the dent. Dents smaller than seven inches will often cost less than $350 if you use the paintless dent removal method. However, this price could be much higher if the dent is either larger or if the dent has to be primed and painted. Refer to our two posts we have written in the past on paintless dent removal costs and car dent removal costs.
A sprung car door repair, which will replace worn-out door hinge bushings, allowing the door to shut properly again, can cost close to $350 to $550 per door, depending on the make, model and the mechanic performing the job.
A damaged car door repair, which may require a brand new door, will depend on the repair being done or if you need a new door. A reputable technician should be able to compare the costs of resolving the problem while keeping the original door or simply replacing it with a new. A new car door, on average, can cost $350 to $1,500, depending on the make and model.
Scratches on a car door will all depend on the size and depth of the scratch, similar to how a dent is priced. Most scratches can be sanded and painted for about $150 to $500, but a deep scratch could be closer to $1,000 or more. CarsDirect.com says most shops won’t charge less than $150 to $200 for a simple scratch job.
A car door handle repair can cost about $40 to $100 for an OEM handle and close to another $50 to $95 for the professional labor. This repair is often done to a handle that either doesn’t work anymore or in some circumstances, the handle snaps off.
A car door lock repair can cost anywhere from $50 to $250, and this will resolve any issues surrounding the lock. This could include a broken rod, a broken switch or a faulty actuator.
Rust damage, often found underneath the car doors, can cost about $400 to $850 per door. One member on ThirdGen.org, for instance, was quoted $1,200 for a rust repair job that would have painted both doors, the bumper, panels and hood.
What is going to be included?
To fix a car dent, the mechanic will use either convention method, where he or she will fill the dent, paint, and allow the area to dry, or the paintless dent removal method, which will use specialized tools to help sculpt the metal back into its original form. As long as the technician is able to access the back of the dent through the panel, the job can be done without the worry of ruining the paint.
How can I save money?
Highly consider checking a junkyard before purchasing a brand new door as this can be a frugal option, especially if you have an older car. Doing this can save you up to 70% or more.
Most of the time, auto insurance policies will cover all of the repairs mentioned above as long as proper documentation is provided. Talk with your insurance company to see what may be covered.
How Much Does a Cardiologist Visit Cost?
A cardiologist visit is often a requirement for people who have been diagnosed or are looking for treatment for heart and blood vessel related diseases. A cardiologist is the best professional who you can ask regarding matters about the heart. Most people will be recommended to a cardiologist because of chest pains, a shortness of breath or a sensation of fluttering in the heart, often referred to as palpitations.
How much does a cardiologist visit cost?
The cost for a cardiologist visit depends on the doctor, the geographical location, your insurance coverage and the complexity of the problem.
On average, the price for a visit, without any tests, can be anywhere from $195 to $510 per visit without insurance. If you are being referred to a cardiologist, plan on visiting at least two to three times to receive a proper treatment plan, have all the tests taken and a diagnosis. As a grand total, this could bring the total costs, with tests, closer to $800 to more than $3,000 without insurance.
Cardiovascular Consulting says the average visit without insurance will be in the $200 to $400 range, and this would cover the office visit, the physical exam and the EKG. The final amount will greatly depend on how much more information the cardiologist will need and how the heart problem needs to be treated. If the EKG didn’t show enough information, for example, more tests could be required, adding $500 to $1,000+ to the total bill.
Cardiologist visit overview
The first visit with your cardiologist will often include a routine check-up and an EKG, which will show the doctor exactly how your heart is beating in real time. Most of the time, patients will be referred to one by their primary care physician. The doctor may also request blood and/or urine samples to determine any irregularities and a course of action. If more tests are needed, as discussed below, you may have to come back at another date to have them done. These tests will include a stress test and/or echocardiogram.
What are the extra costs?
An EKG will more than likely be done during your first visit to see how your heart is beating. During this test, the cardiologist will attach electrodes to your chest and view the results in real time on a monitor. This test should cost about $15 to $45.
Additional tests, depending on your situation, may also be required. This will include a stress test, an echocardiogram or even both. The stress test will determine if you have any blocked arteries, while an echocardiogram will be able to test the valves and the muscles in the heart. These tests may be done during the initial visit; however, most of the time, the cardiologist will ask you to come back at a future date. A stress test, depending on the type, can be as little as $150 to as much as $3,000, while an echocardiogram can cost anywhere from $300 to more than $750.
Plan on visiting the cardiologist at least three times to receive a proper diagnosis. The first visit will be a consultation, where the cardiologist will get to know you and your background and offer his or her opinion and potential options. If a stress test and/or echocardiogram is ordered, you will more than likely have to come at a future date to get these tests done, and the results will be discussed during yet another date, bringing the total to three visits.
Tips to know
Ask your cardiologist how the lab tests will be billed. If it has to be done at the hospital, the costs can be much greater than having it done at a local outpatient center.
The professional society for cardiologists does not recommend stress tests for screening purposes if there are no symptoms present. A reputable cardiologist will recommend this type of test if you have symptoms such as chest pain, palpitations or a shortness of breath.
How can I save money?
Make sure that you check with your medical provider to see if you are covered as this can lessen the cost or it can provide the service at no charge at all. If you have no insurance, consider purchasing a higher deductible policy from companies such as eHealthInsurance to help bring the costs down.
Consider setting up a payment plan if you can’t afford all of the payments up front. Most offices will be more than happy to set up a plan that best suits your budget.
Many offices will offer cash discounts if you ask ahead of time. Even if you have insurance, it may be a lot cheaper to go this route.
How Much Does Car Dent Repair Cost?
When it comes to removing a car dent, there are several ways to remove it. For minor dents and dings, a technique, known as paintless dent removal, is often performed, but for larger dents, the dent will be restored and then a series of painting techniques will be applied to cover the spot where the dent used to be. If you fail to fix a dent, it can often corrode or even rust as time goes on.
How much does car dent repair cost?
The cost of removing a dent will depend on the process being used, the size of the dent and the technician being hired.
On average, smaller dents that are less than seven inches in diameter, using the PDR method, can cost anywhere from $50 to $300, but larger dents on the door, bumper or hood can cost anywhere from $500 to more than $2,000 if it has to be re-painted. This is the price per dent; however, if the dents are closer to each other or are done during the same job, the costs will be much less per dent. In the end, if the dent is less than seven inches in diameter, the costs should be less than $250 on average.
Autos.com recommends budgeting at least $25 per inch.
Most of the time, larger dents may require that the entire panel is replaced as it will be cheaper to do so. The pricing can be dependent upon how long the job is going to take.
For example, DentKraft.com offers paintless dent removal services and charges $85 to $200 for dents measuring one to two and a half inches in size.
Another company — FastCarRepair.com — charges about $79 to $179 for one to seven-inch dents.
Insurance.com says a dented bumper is one of the most common repairs done, and to have it replaced, it can cost $900, while having it repaired can be $450.
Car dent repair overview
There are three common places to get dents taken out professionally: the dealership, a larger franchise or a small collision shop. The dealership will often be a good choice if you’re still under warranty or you have a higher-end vehicle since some will require special tools to take out the dent. Larger franchises, such a MAACO, are known to be able to take out any sized dent with the latest technology on the market. Lastly, a smaller mom and pop collision shop will be the least expensive option and will be able to work with just about any repair.
There are two ways to remove a dent: either via the conventional method or via the paintless dent removal method. The conventional method will prep the area, fill the dent, paint the area, apply a smooth finish and will dry for the day. This process, depending on the complexity, can take a few hours. The paintless dent removal method will use specialized tools to help sculpt the metal back into the original form. As long as the technician has access to the back of the panel, the job can be done.
What are the extra costs?
If the area has to be buffed or repainted, this can be an additional cost to be considered. Paint chip repair can cost $50 to $350, depending on the amount of paint needed and the type.
Tips to know
Compared to a traditional dent repair, paintless dent removal, often referred to as PDR, won’t damage the paint finish since there’s no sanding, filler or repainting involve.d
How can I save money?
For smaller jobs, it may be easier to remove the dents yourself. Car dent removal tools online can cost anywhere from $10 to $50.
If you have a car insurance policy with a deductible, check with them to see if they will cover the removal process.
Look for any special coupons or discounts online before booking an appointment. These can often be found on Yelp, Facebook and/or their official website.
How Much Does a Car Wash Cost?
A car wash is often meant for those who don’t have the time to wash it at home or don’t have the space to do so. Car washes can come in many types and each one can offer its own perks. The costs depend on the package you choose, the type of car wash you go to and the size of your vehicle.
How much does a car wash cost?
On average, most people pay anywhere from $3 to $10 for a basic drive-through car wash. The cost will depend on the car wash, what’s included with the car wash, the car wash company and the geographical location. A premium car wash, often referred to as the “works,” may include a tire shine and wax, and this type of wash can cost closer to $10 to $15.
Autos.com says the average basic automatic wash will cost about $5 to $12 for a top of the line express wash, while a full-service automatic wash could cost $15 to $30.
Self-serve car washes are going to charge by the minute, and most self-serve car washes will require $1 to $3 to start, and $1 to $2 per additional minute after.
A full-service car wash, which will often include the car wash, a vacuumed interior and dusted down console, can cost $15 to $25.
Car detailing, which will include all services performed by hand, can include everything from a hand wash to shampooing the rugs and floor mats. Something like this will depend on the type of vehicle and amount of detail that goes into the car. The average car will cost about $85, while an SUV or van could cost $125 to $150.
A mobile car wash, where the service comes to you, can cost $25 to $50 for a basic car wash to as much as $80 to $110+ for a premium car wash and interior deep clean.
We researched a few of the most popular car wash brands and listed the prices in the table below:
| Car Wash | Prices |
|---|---|
| 7 Eleven Car Wash | $6 for basic |
| BP Car Wash | $7 for basic to $10 for premium |
| Exxon Car Wash | $12 to $16 |
| Kwik Trip Car Wash | $7 for basic to $11 for elite |
| Mister Car Wash | $25 to $30 for basic interior/exterior clean |
| Phillips 66 Car Wash | $6 to $9 |
| Shell Car Wash | $4 for basic to $9 for premium |
Car wash overview
A car wash can come in many types. The most basic car wash, which is often referred to as a basic or value wash, will simply power wash and brush your car as you go through the tunnel on a track system that pulls the car along. These types can either be a touchless or brushless system. Most of the time, the most basic wash won’t even include an air dry at the end; it will simply wash your car with soap and that’s about it. A higher-end wash will include an undercarriage clean, wheel cleaning, clear-coat protector and one minute dry clean at the end. Some car washes may employ employees who hand dry your car at the end while others won’t.
Most car washes will fall into the following categories:
Hand car wash
As the name notes, the car will be washed by hand by the employees on site.
Self-service
A self-service facility will usually be coin operated and the customer will be responsible for all the washing. These car washes will almost always be opened 24 hours.
In-bay
This setup will be automatic, but unlike the traditional conveyor, the car will sit in park while the machine rolls back and forth cleaning the vehicle. This type is often seen at gas stations and local self-service companies.
Tunnel
This is the most common car wash option and uses a conveyor which will take the vehicle through a series of cleaning mechanisms.
Waterless
Known as a chemical car wash, this eco-friendly wash won’t use any water; instead, it will use special chemicals to wash and polish the car service.
Mobile
Mobile car wash professionals will carry plastic water tanks that use a high-pressure washer, which is often mounted to a truck or van.
What are the extra costs?
A $1 to $2 surcharge may apply to SUVs and larger vehicles.
How can I save money?
Check for coupons online or on the company’s official website/Facebook. Oftentimes, the car wash may offer promotions or a deal you can take advantage of.
Many car wash companies will have a frequent washer discount. For example, for every 10 washes, they will do one for free. Some even allow you to purchase a monthly pass that allows you to get unlimited washes during the month.
Gas stations may offer a slight discount if you purchase gas with your car wash purchase.
How Much Does Car Detailing Cost?
A professional car detailer will be able to do everything from clean the exterior to steam cleaning and polishing the interior.
How much does car detailing cost?
The cost of car detailing will depend on the condition of the vehicle, the time spent cleaning it, the car’s size, the package you choose and the detailer you go to. Most detailers will offer more than one detailing package and each one will have its own inclusions. A simple vacuum job, wipe down and window cleaning, for example, can cost $30 to $65, while a full premium detail, which will include shampooing the mats, carpets, seats, and cleaning all the leather inside can cost $80 to $200. Most premium detailing jobs, however, will be about $110 for a car and closer to $140 to $160 for an SUV or van. The costs can be much higher when you factor in any of the premium add-ons mentioned below.
AJ Professional Detailing, located in San Jose, California, for example, charges $50 to $125 for a mini detail and $85 to $174 for an express wax deluxe, which includes two coats of a revitalizing conditioning glaze, an exterior hand wash, light interior cleaning and floor mat shampooing.
Incredibly Detailed, an automotive detailing service, located in Maryland, charges $75 to $110 for a wash and wax package, or $200 to $300 for the Ultimate Package. The company, on its website, goes quite in depth, explaining what each job entails.
Car detailing overview
Car detailing will go beyond the typical car wash. Unlike a car wash that uses brushes and air to remove debris, a detailer will hand wash the entire vehicle, wax it, clean the tires and polish the interior. An interior detail job will usually include a vacuuming, shampooing the carpet and wiping down the dashboard, windows, mirrors, trim and seats. Premium jobs will include shampooing all the upholstery, cleaning the interior door panels and applying a conditioner to the leather seats.
Most good jobs can take close to four to six hours to complete.
Professional detailers can be found at local dealerships, car wash chains, body shops and with independent detailers.
What are the extra costs?
Extra dirty cars that require more time may cost $30 to $75 more. Angie’s List said if you were to bring in a car that hasn’t been cleaned in 11 years and had chocolate candy stuck to the carpet, the costs could be $40 to $70 more.
Using premium products or upgrading instead of the basic products they typically use can cost an extra $50 to $75. For example, a superior wax could cost $50 more, while a steam cleaning could add $75 to the price.
Applying a premium upholstery cleaning to the leather interior could cost another $50 to $75.
Some detailing services are able to remove dents for as little as $40 to $100 per dent, depending on the size.
An engine shampoo can cost another $25 or so.
Adding Scotch Guard to the carpet or upholstery can be another $30 to $45.
Wheel polishing can cost $20 to $80 more.
Detailers may be able to resort discolored or faded trim for a fee.
Clay bar cleaning, which can help remove bonded paint contamination, creating a smooth surface, can cost $50 to $75 extra. This specially formulated clay bar will be rubbed along the surface and is ideal for removing road grime, bug residue, tree sap and any sort of “rough” look.
Headlight restoration, which can turn faded, cloudy headlights into a crystal clear finish, can cost $75 to $115.
Tips to know
Before choosing any detailer, check with Yelp, Angie’s List and/or the BBB to see what other people are saying about the services.
How can I save money?
Check for coupons and deals online. Since this is a rather competitive field, most will find that these companies offer coupons to first-time and even customers.
Some companies offer bulk discounts if you were to buy three to six cleanings at a time.
If you have the time to do it, consider purchasing an all-in-one kit that includes all of the cleaning products you need to make your car look and smell like new again. For example, the Meguiar’s Complete Car Care Kit, the number one seller on Amazon, retails for close to $50.
Bringing in more than one car at a time can lead to discounts.
How Much Does a New Car Engine Cost?
Excessive smoke coming from the tailpipe or knocking sounds could all signal the need for a new car engine. While many car owners consider scrapping their car for a new one, some may have the engine either rebuilt or replaced to keep the car going. When the engine dies, it doesn’t mean it has to be the end of your vehicle’s life.
How much does a new car engine cost?
The cost of a car engine will depend on if you want to rebuild the engine or replace it 100% with a salvaged engine. It will also depend on the car’s make and model, the mechanic you take it to and your geographical location. If you were to have the engine rebuilt, it could cost $2,700 to about $5,700, but if you were to replace the engine 100 percent, the costs could be 30 to 40 percent more.
Head gaskets, which often are the main reason the engine failed, can easily cost more than $2,000 to replace.
Most mechanics may recommend rebuilding the engine instead of purchasing one new. Rebuilding it will use many new components that meet or even exceed the original equipment standards. CarCare.org notes that rebuilt engines are better than the car engines often installed the factory and remanufacturing the engine can cost $2,250 to $4,000.
Joe at Personal Finance by the Book said he was quoted $5,700 for a replacement engine for his 1999 Cadillac DeVille.
Car engine overview
As noted above, there are two options when it comes to replacing an engine: either getting it rebuilt or replacing it with a salvaged engine. A rebuilt engine will be rebuilt by a technician and the piston rings, gaskets, seals and engine bearings will be replaced. A salvaged engine will be the original engine but will come from accidents or other reasons. For instance, in Japan, vehicles will only stay on the road for about seven to eight years, and afterward, they are shipped to the United States to be resold.
Another term you may hear about when replacing an engine is short block and long block. A short block engine will come with the lower section only and won’t include the cylinder heads or the head gaskets. It will only come with the pistons, bearings, oil pan, crankshaft and connecting rods. A long block engine will be a bolt-in replacement option that will include the cylinder heads, valves, valve springs, camshafts and new head gaskets. More often than not, the head gasket is the number one reason car engines fail, usually due to overheating.
A rebuilt engine with a local mechanic will often come with a warranty that lasts about 12,000 miles or one year, whichever comes first. Some engine manufacturers, depending on who you choose, could last as long as 36 months.
The average job can take at least 25 to 30 hours to complete, depending on the complexity of a job. A rustier old engine that has hard to remove parts will be much more than one that doesn’t.
What are the extra costs?
Charges for freight shipping, if purchased online can cost close to $200, depending on how far it has to travel. Local junkyards will require you to pick up the engine yourself.
The Car Connection recommends factoring in the incidentals such as the radiator hoses, fan belts, fuel system and transmission. Usually, once a car engine goes, other parts will start to fail as well, bringing the additional costs to well into the thousands.
Tips to know:
Bear in mind that new engine installations must meet emissions compliance within your local state.
How can I save money?
Not all engine problems mean you need to get a new engine. Talk with at least three shops to get an opinion. If all the opinions point to a new engine, then it may be safe to pursue this option.
Most local junkyards may have the particular make and model for which you are looking for. If going the junkyard way, these engines are going to have a shelf life that will be relatively small, so only go this route if you don’t plan on using the car for a long period of time.
Make sure the investment makes sense. If you were to invest $5,000 in a new engine, what could you get with that money instead? Remember, someone may be willing to give you a few hundred dollars for your car, even if it doesn’t work.
Get at least two to three opinions before investing in a new engine. If two mechanics agree a new engine is necessary, then it’s probably the right path to take.
How Much Does a Car Extended Warranty Cost?
A car extended warranty is an additional warranty purchased by car owners to further provide coverage to the vehicle. Most of the time, an extended warranty offers the same type of coverage as the original warranty the vehicle came with, sometimes more.
How much does a car extended warranty cost?
The cost of an extended warranty will depend on so many factors such as the car’s make and model, the number of miles on the vehicle, the condition, the deductible you choose, what you want to be covered and the company offering the warranty. In general, the lower the mileage and newer the car is, the more you’re going to be able to save. To budget, a good car extended warranty from a reputable company will cost anywhere from $350 to $800 per year or about $750 to $4,500+ as a one-time payment. Payment can either be paid in full, monthly or tied in with your auto loan.
For example, we contacted some of the most popular third-party warranty companies on the Internet and were able to come up with the following quotes listed in the table below. For our sample, we asked for a quote for a 2014 Toyota Carolla with about 45,000 miles in Phoenix, Arizona. We chose the most basic plan possible and had minimal coverage. Again, the prices will greatly vary depending on the factors mentioned above.
| Company | Quote (per month) |
|---|---|
| AA Auto Protection | $100~ |
| ASAP | $2,600 one time payment |
| Autopom | $80~ |
| CARCHEX | $105~ |
| Delta Auto Protection | $120~ |
| Endurance | $100~ |
| Protect My Car | $85~ |
| USAA | $125~ |
| Warranty Direct | $80~ |
We also did some research online seeing what most brand name warranties cost by visiting dealership pages and forums where people discussed what they were charged.
| Brand | Average Cost (for 3-4 years of coverage) |
|---|---|
| Acura | $2,100 to $3,500 |
| Audi | $3,000 to $4,400 |
| BMW | $2,700 to $4,200 |
| Buick | $1,000 to $2,500 |
| Cadillac | $1,500 to $3,500 |
| Chevrolet | $1,300 to $3,000 for 3 years |
| Chrysler | $2,000 to $3,000 |
| Dodge | $1,300 to $3,000 |
| Ford | $2,000 to $3,500 |
| GMC | $1,800 to $3,000 |
| Honda | $1,000 to $3,000 |
| Hyundai | $1,000 to $3,000 |
| Infiniti | $1,300 to $2,800 |
| Isuzu | $2,000 to $3,000 |
| Jaguar | $3,000 to $5,000 |
| Jeep | $1,500 to $3,500 |
| KIA | $2,000 to $3,500 |
| Lexus | $2,600 to $4,000 |
| Lincoln | $2,500 to $3,300 |
| Mazda | $1,200 to $2,500 |
| Mercedes Benz | $3,00 to $5,200 |
| Mercury | $1,000 to $2,300 |
| Mini | $1,300 to $2,700 |
| Mitsubishi | $1,000 to $2,500 |
| Nissan | $2,000 to $3,000 |
| Saab | $1,500 to $3,000 |
| Scion | $1,000 to $2,400 |
| Sabaru | $1,100 to $2,800 |
| Suzuki | $1,300 to $2,600 |
| Toyota | $1,500 to $2,800 |
| Volkswagen | $2,000 to $3,500 |
| Volvo | $2,000 to $3,000 |
Car extended warranty overview
Extended warranties are available for both new and used cars and will be marketed as an additional layer of security, reducing the risk of repairs in the future. Most warranties, regardless of where they are purchased, will offer more than one plan option and each plan will have its own exclusions and inclusions, so it’s important to read the fine print closely to know exactly what’s going to be covered. The plans can range from a simple comprehensive bumper-to-bumper plan to something as simple as focusing on one area such as the powertrain. For example, some plans won’t cover any in-car technology options, while a premium package will.
Depending on the policy you choose, the length can last from as little as two years to as long as 10. Basic policy options, as stated above, may only cover certain parts with restrictions, while a premium policy may cover everything, including the technology gadgets inside. Most companies are able to offer coverage in all 50 states.
All car warranties will differ when it comes to the deductible. Depending on the company and/or car brand, this deductible can range anywhere from as little as $50 to more than $150.
What are the extra costs?
Additional riders such as tow truck assistance and rental car insurance can be an additional cost.
If the company allows a transfer to a new owner, a small $50~ transfer fee may apply.
Tips to know:
Before purchasing an extended warranty, know which parts are going to be covered. Closely examine the coverage explanation and check for any limitations. If you have any questions, it’s always best to talk with the company directly to be sure. If in doubt, always get it in writing.
Don’t buy under pressure. If the dealer is asking you if you would like to purchase the warranty, simply let them know you want to think about it. A reputable dealer will respect this and will let you do your own research at home. Remember, you can always add this warranty at any time.
If the car is sold or transferred in the future, see if you’re able to transfer the warranty with it. If not, what happens?
Be careful with any modifications as this can often avoid the warranty if not approved. The same can be said for those who don’t maintain their car.
If you drive a used car, it doesn’t mean you won’t be approved since warranty companies will have eligibility requirements. This could include a year and/or mileage cutoff. Most companies won’t offer coverage to cars with more than 150,000 miles.
If you have a preferred mechanic, they may not be covered under your warranty and you may be subjected to using the mechanic the warranty company recommends.
Always make sure the company you’re choosing is licensed with the Department of Insurance. If the company isn’t insured, you risk losing your initial investment if the company were to go under.
Always research the insurance company online to see what other people are saying. Do they have any BBB complaints? How are the reviews on Yelp? Pay close attention to both the good and the bad and try your best to make an informed decision.
How can I save money?
When purchasing a new car, the dealer will more than likely push an extended warranty to purchase along with your car. Consumer Reports say the odds of you using this warranty is slim to none and the money you save in the future won’t even come close to what you invest at the time of your purchase. A recent survey done by Consumer Reports said 55 percent of people who did purchase an extended warranty didn’t even use it. In that same report, it’s stated dealership and third party warranties often have a difference of only $100 or so.
Don’t be afraid to bargain on the price these companies offer you. Most of those who haggle often can save close to $200 to $300.
You don’t need to buy an extended warranty through a dealership. Consider checking with your insurance company or looking online at various third party warranty companies.
Pay close attention to the options included in your warranty and see if you really need them. Taking some of these options off the policy can often lower the price.
How Much Does a Video Capsule Endoscopy Cost?
A capsule endoscopy is a medical device used to record images of the digestive tract. The capsule is the same size as a regular pill, but it contains a built-in camera and can be used to examine areas of the small intestine that cannot usually be seen by a physician. Since there are 18 to 22 feet of intestines, it can be hard to reach some areas with a traditional scope.
It can be used to examine areas of the small intestine that usually can’t be seen by other types of endoscopies such as a colonoscopy. The price of capsule endoscopy depends on the doctor performing the procedure, the inclusions, geographical location and complexity of the job.
How much does a video capsule endoscopy cost?
On average, a capsule endoscopy can cost anywhere from $900 to $2,625 without insurance. The capsule alone costs anywhere from $600 to $1,300.
The NCBI says the cost of an inpatient capsule endoscopy is about €1775.90 or about $1,900 in USD.
Capsule endoscopy overview
A capsule endoscopy is a pill similar to a vitamin pill you would swallow but built inside this pill will be a tiny camera that will travel the entire length of your gastrointestinal tract, taking close to 50,000 pictures while goes through. Some will be designed for the intestines, while others may be specifically designed for the colon or esophagus. Dr. Havranek, a board-certified gastroenterologist, says it’s equivalent of a high-definition video of your smaller intestines. While the pill travels through and takes these pictures, it will emit radio waves to a smaller device that’s worn on your wrist, similar to something such as a Fitbit. Eventually, it will be naturally in your stool and can be flushed away since the doctor won’t ask for it back.
During the exam, you will wear a receiver around your waist or you may have to wear adhesive patches before you swallow the capsule. The entire process at the doctor’s office will take less than 20 minutes, and the pill will take about eight to 10 hours to travel through your intestines. The doctor will usually ask for you to come for an appointment in the morning and return later in the afternoon to retrieve the receiver to download the images to a computer. The report will be evaluated and could take a few days to receive your results.
This capsule will be used to diagnose problems such as anemia, abdominal pain, blood in the stool, locating cancers or diagnosing Crohn’s disease.
What are the extra costs?
A capsule endoscopy is meant to find out what’s wrong with the patient’s digestive tract. If surgery or any another type of procedure is needed, additional costs need to be considered.
Tips to know
To prepare for the service, you may have to avoid any solid foods for up to 48 hours prior to the procedure and stick to a liquid diet. Solid foods, especially if they are dark in color, can affect the test since the pill may bypass lesions that are darker in color.
When you swallow the pill, doctors will ask that you take it easy and avoid strenuous exercise for the next eight hours. You will also be asked to avoid eating for the next two hours after you swallowed. After four hours, you will be able to eat a lighter lunch.
Let your doctor know if you have a pacemaker, defibrillator or have had abdominal surgery in the past.
Capsule endoscopy video on YouTube
How can I save money?
You’re actually saving money if you consider this procedure since the doctors will be able to identify if surgery is needed or if medicine can work.
Check with your health insurance provider to see if this procedure is covered as it more than likely will be if it’s deemed medically necessary. For those without health insurance, highly consider finding policies through sites such as eHealthInsurance.
How Much Does Alternator for a Car Cost?
Car alternators are the devices responsible for charging the battery and powering the electrical system while the engine runs; it’s often referred to as the hardest working part in the car. Car alternators have a voltage regulator that operates by modulating the small field current that produces a constant voltage to the stator output. Once the engine is running and the alternator is generating power, a diode feeds the current from the alternator main output that equalizes the voltage through the warning indicator that shuts off.
How much does an alternator cost?
On average, car alternator prices are going to range anywhere from $65 to $520, not including labor. For example, the alternator prices at AutoZone retail for as little as $105 to more than $700.
Factoring in labor can add another $100 to $275, bringing the total to about $250 to $800. OEM parts for luxury vehicles can be even more. The prices of car alternators are different depending on the make and model of the vehicle. For example, a Celica, Tundra, Corolla, Camry and other sedans can cost anywhere from $65 to $140 for just the part, while a Honda Civic, the CRV and Pilot can cost anywhere from $150 to $225 for the part.
According to our research, if the alternator is easier to reach and is located near the top of the engine, the costs can be much cheaper than an alternator located deep within the engine.
On a Ford F-150 forum thread, many drivers have claimed that they paid anywhere from $200 to $400 for the alternator and labor included. While many deemed that going over $400 may be a ripoff, it’s important to do your due diligence before signing any paperwork.
We went ahead and talked with a few mechanics in the United States and were able to come up with the following ballpark estimates:
| Make and Model | Labor | Parts |
|---|---|---|
| Ford F-Series | $65 to $125 | $150 to $350 |
| Chevrolet Silverado | $65 to $125 | $250 to $450 |
| Ford Focus | $65 to $125 | $250 to $400 |
| Toyota Camry | $65 to $110 | $275 to $550 |
| Toyota Corolla | $50 to $110 | $200 to $550 |
| Nissan Maxim | $60 to $120 | $265 to $400 |
| Nissan Altima | $75 to $110 | $250 to $350 |
| Honda CR-V | $100 to $150 | $300 to $700 |
| Honda Civic | $90 to $180 | $250 to $500 |
| Honda Accord | $70 to $110 | $240 to $450 |
| Ford Fusion | $100 to $150 | $230 to $350 |
Factors that affect the price:
Make and model
Like any car repair, the make and model will greatly affect the price. If the car isn’t manufactured anymore, you may find that you’re going to have to pay more than a car that is still in production.
Year
Like the make and model, the year can play a crucial role, too. The older the car is, the more you will probably have to pay, especially if the car is hard to find.
Car alternator overview
Before the alternator is even replaced, the mechanic will want to check the condition of the charging system to make sure the alternator is the culprit. This inspection will include checking the alternator, battery cables and the battery.
If the alternator is, indeed, the problem, it will simply be swapped out for a new one. During this process, the battery will be disconnected, along with the belts and wires connected to the alternator. Next, the belt will be removed from the pulley, allowing access to the alternator, which will be bolted inside a bracket. With most vehicles, this will be a straightforward process and the average job, depending on the make and model, will be one to two hours. If the job requires moving more than average parts, it could take much longer.
What are the extra costs?
Additional parts used to connect the alternator to the vehicle can add to the cost. These parts include a high amp alternator fuse block wiring cable kit, an alternator belt, alternator conversion kit if needed and alternator brackets. These parts can cost anywhere from $40 to $260.
Many times, the mechanic may find the battery has been drained due to a bad alternator. If this is the case, the mechanic may want to add a new battery just to play it safe. See: “How much does a car battery cost?”
Tips to know:
The average alternator will last about 100,000 to 150,000 miles, depending on how often the car is driven, the number of electronics being used in the car and the quality of the part.
Before you consider replacing the alternator, make sure the battery isn’t the problem. The Family Handyman shows you how to compare the battery and alternator.
How to tell if your alternator is going bad
To know if your car alternator is bad, first test the headlights. While the car is running, simply turn on the headlights, and while the car is in park, slowly press the accelerator. While doing this, if the headlights start to dim or even get brighter, this could be a sure sign that the alternator is going bad.
An electrical burning smell may be coming from the battery area and/or the alternator warning light will turn on. This warning light will look like a battery shape.
The car radio or other electrical components may work intermittently.
A squealing noise may come from the car’s engine.
How can I save money?
Make sure that the car alternator you purchase is from a reliable source. Try to get it from the car manufacturer directly as this will ensure that the item is brand new and will last longer.
If you are on a tight budget, consider purchasing a remanufactured or aftermarket car alternator. They are cheaper and are often backed by warranty as well; however, keep in mind the quality isn’t always there.
Consider finding a local shop that focuses on alternators. These companies can help rebuild older alternators.
How Much Do Carrots Cost?
Carrots are root vegetables, usually orange in color, although there are red, purple, and white varieties available. The most commonly consumed part is the taproot, but the greens on top of the carrot are edible as well. Carrots, like other vegetables, are very healthy as they are rich in dietary fiber, antioxidants, and minerals. They can be used in many different recipes or eaten raw as a snack. The price of carrots depends on where you purchased it from, the geographical location and the time of year.
How much do carrots cost?
On average, whole carrots at the local grocery store or market can cost anywhere from $1 to $2 per pound, depending on the season. At Walmart, for instance, carrots will cost about $0.049 per ounce or about $0.80 per pound. Carrots with the organic label could cost 30 to 40 percent more. The Earthbound Farm Organic mini carrots, for instance, retail for $3.50 per two-pound bag.
Baby carrots, which often come in a one-pound clear bag, will cost closer to $1.50 to $2.50 per pound.
Shredded carrots, like the baby carrots, will also come in a 10 to 16-ounce clear bag and will be around the same price, $1.50 to $2.50 per bag.
Carrot seedlings, such as imperator, cosmic purple, hybrid, and atomic red, can cost $1.50 to $3 per pound.
The USDA says the average canned carrot will cost $1.06 per pound, while frozen will be closer to $1.46 per pound. Raw baby carrots average $1.46 per pound and raw whole carrots can cost $0.74 per pound.
Lisa on Living Shalom broke down the cheapest carrot options for juicing. In her analysis, she claimed a five-pound bag at Whole Foods is about $4, while a 25-pound bag retailed for about $19. A 10-pound bag at Costco retailed for close to $7.
Carrots overview
Carrots are free from fat, cholesterol and are very low in sodium. They are a great source of fiber, which can help aid digestion and will be high in vitamin A. Raw carrots are also rich in beta-carotene, which has been shown to boost the immune system, improving cell-to-cell communication, decreasing the risks of cancer.
There are 50 calories in a cup of baby carrots or strips and or slices. One cup also has 12 grams of total carbohydrates, three grams of dietary fiber, six grams of sugar and 1.1 grams of protein.
Tips to know:
Carrots can be eaten raw, can be boiled, baked, juiced and even put in salads and stir-fries.
Experts say that the bigger a carrot is, the more flavor it will have. Consider looking for carrots larger than six to eight inches for full flavor and pay close attention to the color. Aldi recommends picking carrots that are smooth, firm and have a deeper color.
When storing carrots, be sure to rinse them down and drain them so no water is left over. Seal them in a tight bag and put them in the coolest part of the fridge to make sure they can stay fresh longer.
How can I save money?
Check with local farmers markets as they tend to be cheaper than the grocery store.
If purchasing bagged carrots, consider buying the grocery store brand as these tend to be about 30 to 40 percent cheaper than a name brand.
As mentioned above, buying in bulk can bring the costs down and this can be a great option for those who are juicing or need more than three to five pounds. A 10-pound bag at Costco, for example, can bring the costs closer to $0.60 per pound. Costco and Sam’s Club will be your cheapest option most of the time, but most local grocery stores should have five to 10-pound bags, depending on which company you choose.
