Car maintenance in Knoxville TN
As new car prices skyrocket due to a 25% tariff on imported vehicles and parts, more drivers are turning to car maintenance as a smarter financial decision. These tariffs, which took effect on April 3, 2025, are already pushing up the cost of new cars by several thousand dollars. Because of this, keeping your current vehicle in top shape now makes more sense than ever.
Car Maintenance Saves You Money Compared to New Car Prices
To begin with, let’s talk about the numbers. The average price of a new vehicle is expected to rise by $5,000 to $10,000. While that’s already a big jump, don’t forget that insurance premiums are likely to follow suit. This happens because the cost of replacing damaged parts—especially those sourced from abroad—will increase.
As a result, not only do you pay more upfront, but you also continue to pay more each month. On the other hand, investing in regular car maintenance helps you avoid all of that. You’ll spend less keeping your current vehicle reliable than buying a brand-new one in this inflated market.
Auto Maintenance Makes More Sense Than You Think
Additionally, think about what it really costs to repair a vehicle. Even if you need something major, like a new transmission or engine, the repair bill usually runs between $3,000 and $7,000. Compare that to a new car purchase—especially one inflated by tariffs—and suddenly those repairs seem far more reasonable.
Even better, your current car won’t take the same depreciation hit as a new one. Right after purchase, new cars lose a chunk of their value, sometimes as much as 20% in the first year. That’s money you never get back. But when you stick with your current ride and focus on proper car maintenance, you avoid throwing that money away.
Car Maintenance Helps You Avoid Unnecessary Replacement
Next, let’s consider when repairs make sense and when it’s time to move on. While some repairs might feel like a burden, they’re still often more cost-effective than replacing your car.
For example, if your repair costs are less than half the vehicle’s value, experts generally recommend fixing it. However, because of today’s pricing, even a repair that’s slightly more than half could still be the better choice.
Plus, if your car is in decent shape overall—with manageable mileage and no major rust issues—it likely has plenty of life left. In that case, sticking with it and focusing on car maintenance will keep it running reliably without draining your wallet.
Auto maintenance in Knoxville TN
Auto Maintenance Is a Smart Response to Tariff-Driven Inflation
Now, let’s take a closer look at the impact of tariffs. These government-imposed charges apply to both fully assembled vehicles and the parts that keep them running. As a result, manufacturers must either absorb the cost (unlikely) or pass it on to you, the buyer.
Because of this ripple effect, everything from fenders to filters gets pricier. That also includes repair work, since auto shops depend on those same parts. However, if you’ve kept up with car maintenance, you’re less likely to need major replacements. Simple things like timely oil changes, brake checks, and tire rotations go a long way in preventing bigger issues down the road.
Regular Maintenance Helps You Plan Ahead and Avoid Surprises
Another reason to stick with car maintenance is the predictability it offers. When you take care of your vehicle regularly, you reduce the chance of sudden breakdowns. That means fewer unexpected repair bills and more peace of mind.
Also, keeping up with maintenance gives your mechanic a chance to catch problems early. For example, spotting a worn belt or a leaking hose before it becomes a major issue saves you from paying for a tow or getting stranded. Because of that, maintaining your car is more than a money-saver—it’s a stress reducer too.
Let’s say you’ve got a 10-year-old car that still runs well but needs a $3,000 repair. At first glance, you might hesitate. But now imagine a new car costs $35,000, and you’re expected to pay $7,000 more because of tariffs. Suddenly, the repair looks like the better option.
Not only do you save money upfront, but you also skip the higher insurance costs, registration fees, and steep depreciation that come with buying new. All you need to do is stay consistent with your car maintenance, and you’ll continue to enjoy reliable transportation at a much lower cost.
Car Maintenance Extends the Life of Your Vehicle
Although cars do wear down with time, modern vehicles are built to last much longer than they used to. It’s not uncommon for a well-maintained car to reach 200,000 miles or more. That means if you keep up with regular car maintenance, you can stretch your investment even further.
Because of that, what may feel like an aging vehicle could still have years of dependable service left. And since most maintenance tasks are relatively inexpensive—like air filter replacements, fluid flushes, and tire rotations—you’ll keep things running smoothly without breaking the bank.
Make the Smart Move: Prioritize Car Maintenance
All things considered, the better financial choice right now is to stick with your current vehicle. Tariffs have made new cars more expensive than ever, but you don’t have to be stuck with those prices. When you stay on top of car maintenance, you avoid costly repairs and enjoy more control over your vehicle’s future.
Whether it’s routine upkeep or larger repairs, investing in the car you already own simply makes sense. Not only do you save money, but you also reduce hassle, avoid major depreciation, and stay clear of inflated new car prices.
If you’re ready to extend the life of your car without falling into the trap of rising new car prices, Miller Brothers Auto Repair and Collision Center is here for you. Our team of certified technicians provides expert service for all your car maintenance needs. From oil changes and brake repairs to full engine work and collision restoration, we’ve got your back.
Call Miller Brothers Auto Repair and Collision Center now to book an auto inspection and car maintenance service. Let’s keep your car running strong, reliable, and road-ready—without the financial burden of buying new. Your car still has value, and we’re here to help you protect it.
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Miller Brothers Auto Repair and Collision Center
7123 Tazewell Pike
Corryton, TN 37721
(865) 689-5072
https://www.millerbrosautorepair.com/
Serving Knoxville, TN and Knox County
Service areas include: All of Knox County, Corryton, Fountain City, Halls Crossroads, Powell and Knoxville
