According to Bankrate, Inc., about 63% of Americans can't afford a $500 car repair. Auto repair can be expensive, but delaying it can cost you even more. Nonetheless, some car repair services can be delayed. This time period can give you some time to save up for repair. Here's how you can decide whether or not you can delay auto repair.

Problem Parts

First, you have to identify which are the problem parts. There are non-critical parts that can be safely ignored for some time. These parts include belt and hoses, mufflers and exhaust pipes, struts and shock pipes, and velocity joints. However, keep in mind that repairs of these parts should delay if only they have been properly maintained through regular or scheduled auto services. Moderate oil leaks in main bearing seal or valve cover can also be delayed for some time. Moreover, cosmetic repairs in the interior and exterior repairs can also be delayed. Yet, keep in mind that regular washing and waxing prevents corrosion of metal. Repair of these parts are equally important as engine servicing, but not as urgent.

Safety System

Second, you should identify if the problems are included in your car's safety system. If you recognize problems in any component of the safety system, you should not delay auto repair. Problems regarding your car's brake should never be ignored, much less delayed for repair. A worn out steering wheel should also have its ball joints, rod ends and rack-and-pinion systems fixed or replaced promptly. Changing motor oil should never be delayed too as it prolongs the life of your engine and prevents transmission overhaul. Lastly, once you hear a humming sound from the water pump, you must go immediately to your auto repair shop because it fails in just 100 miles or so.

Consultation

If still undecided and unsure, it is best to consult your auto repair shop. Call your trusted technician and ask about you problem. This highlights the importance of having a single trusted auto repair shop. Hopping from one shop to another will prevent you from developing this connection.

In the end, deciding to delay your auto repair primarily depends on which parts cause the problem. As a rule of thumb, if the problem is caused by any component in the car's safety system, you should not delay repair. Otherwise, repair of other parts can be delayed. However, remember that your car is a system—a problem in its individual parts can eventually cause more serious damages in the long run. It is best to consult with your auto repair shop if you can indeed delay repair.