Ideally, aim to budget at least $100 per month for routine maintenance and unexpected car repair expenses. Saving up ahead of time, or using your emergency fund, can help you avoid going into debt to cover unplanned car expenses.

The states with the lowest repair costs were Vermont, at 18.49% below the national average; Wyoming, at 18.82% below average; and West Virginia, at 18.97% below average. In Vermont specifically, a new law has been implemented to control repair costs.

Advanced automotive technologies, supply chain disruptions, and a skilled labor shortage are making every trip to the mechanic more expensive than ever before. For many drivers, the shock at the mechanic's final bill has become as expected as the oil change itself.

If you decide to repair the car yourself, you can save substantially. It's also possible to save money on the cost of parts by shopping for a better deal. Most mechanics won't use used car parts for liability reasons, but you can decide to install used parts if you choose (just make sure they're in good working order).