How Much Does A Replacement Coil Spring Cost? UK Guide

Coil spring replacements cost an average of £220 in the UK, as a coil spring is an essential component of your car's suspension system.

It's responsible for absorbing shocks and maintaining the correct ride height. A broken spring on a car can cause significant trouble.

In this blog, we will discuss the factors that affect coil spring replacement costs and provide tips on how to save money on this essential maintenance task.

Key takeaways

How much does it cost to replace a coil spring?

The cost of a coil spring replacement in the UK is between £180 and £300.

The cost of replacing the front coil springs is around £220, while it's a little cheaper at £180 for the rear coil springs.

Different garages and dealerships charge different rates, so it's worth shopping around to find the best price. Car repair finance can also help you split the cost into interest-free repayments.

Coil spring repair cost by manufacturer

Coil spring repair costs vary significantly depending on the car manufacturer.

Generally, premium and luxury brands usually have higher parts and labour charges due to more complex suspension systems and pricier components.

Here are some average costs for popular UK brands:

Manufacturer	Average Repair Cost
Audi	£170 - £240
BMW	£180 - £250
Ford	£120 - £160
Land Rover	£200 - £280
Mercedes-Benz	£190 - £260
Tesla	£220 - £300
Volkswagen	£130 - £180
Vauxhall	£110 - £150

Coil spring repair cost by UK location

Where you live in the UK can also affect the cost of coil spring repairs.

Prices tend to be higher in London and the South East, reflecting higher labour rates and operating costs for garages. Northern regions often see more competitive pricing.

Location	Average Repair Cost
London	£200 - £280
South East England	£180 - £260
Midlands	£140 - £200
North West England	£130 - £190
Scotland	£120 - £180
Wales	£130 - £190
Northern Ireland	£140 - £200

How long does it take to repair a broken coil spring?

Front coil spring replacements can take between one and three hours. Rear coil spring replacements are shorter and usually take between one and two hours.

In general, the length of a coil spring repair depends on the spring being repaired, its complexity, and the mechanic's experience.

Do coil springs need to be repaired together?

Coil springs must be replaced as pairs per axel. This means the front two together and the back two together. You don’t have to do the front and back pairs at the same time, though.

Factors affecting coil spring replacement cost

When it comes to replacing a coil spring in your vehicle, several factors can impact the overall cost of the job.

The four main ones include:

Car make and model — Some cars need pricier or specialised parts, increasing costs.
Material and quality — Higher-quality springs cost more but last longer and improve handling.
Labour costs — Job complexity and mechanic rates affect the final price.
Additional repairs — Other damaged suspension parts may add to the cost.

What causes a car coil spring to break?

There are several reasons why coil spring parts might break or fail over time, such as wear and tear, corrosion, impact damage, and manufacturing defects.

1. Wear and tear

One major cause is age and wear. As the coil spring is constantly compressed and expanded during normal driving conditions, it can experience metal fatigue that eventually leads to a break.

2. Corrosion

Another factor that can contribute to coil spring failure is corrosion.

When exposed to moisture, salt, and other corrosive elements on the roadways, the metal in the coil spring may weaken over time. This makes it more prone to breaking when subjected to sudden stresses or impacts from potholes or other hazards on the road.

A corroded coil spring costs the same as a standard broken coil replacement.

3. Impact damage

Impact damage alone is another common reason why coil springs might break unexpectedly.

A strong jolt from hitting a pothole or running over debris in the road can put sudden and excessive force on the spring. This can result in significant damage or even complete failure of one or more coils within the spring.

4. Manufacturing defects

Although rare, manufacturing defects may also lead to premature failure of a car's coil springs.

Poorly made products can have weak spots that aren't immediately apparent but could worsen as they're used under typical driving conditions.

Signs of a failing coil spring

Common symptoms indicating that a coil spring might need a replacement include:

Unusual noises coming from the suspension system, such as clunking or squeaking
Uneven tyre wear due to improper wheel alignment
Sagging or uneven ride height
Reduced handling capabilities, such as excessive body roll or a bouncy ride
Rust on the coil spring

Do coil springs weaken?

Yes, coil springs weaken over time, often due to constant compression, corrosion from UK road salt, and general wear. Weak springs lower ride height, affect handling, and may lead to uneven tyre wear.

How to inspect a coil spring

Check your coil springs monthly or if you notice any issues by looking for cracks, corrosion, or bends.

If you suspect damage, have a professional mechanic inspect them rather than tamper with them, as diagnosing coil spring problems can be tricky without expert knowledge.

Can you drive with a broken coil spring?

Driving with a broken coil spring is unsafe as it affects your vehicle’s handling, braking, and overall safety. It can also damage other suspension parts or tyres, leading to costlier repairs and increased risk for you and other road users.

Is a coil spring an MOT failure?

Yes, a broken or significantly damaged coil spring is considered an MOT failure in the UK. It is essential to address any coil spring issues before your vehicle's MOT test to ensure it passes and remains roadworthy.

How do I know if my coil springs have gone?

You can spot failing coil springs if your car sits unevenly, rides lower than normal, bounces excessively over bumps, or feels unstable while driving.

But with all potential car problems, listen and look for unusual handling changes. If it feels like something’s off, it’s always best to get it checked out to prevent further damage and costly repairs.

Can a mobile mechanic fix a coil spring?

Yes, many mobile mechanics in the UK can replace a coil spring, provided they have the right tools and safe working space. Complex jobs may still require a garage visit.

How to save money on coil spring replacement

Coil spring replacement can be an expensive and time-consuming task, but there are ways to save money without sacrificing the quality or safety of your vehicle.

Shop for aftermarket parts — Affordable aftermarket coil springs can lower repair costs, but avoid low-quality parts that may affect safety and performance.
Consider DIY replacements — If skilled and equipped, replacing coil springs yourself can save labour costs. Otherwise, it’s safer to hire a professional.
Regular maintenance — Routine checks, proper alignment, and prompt repairs help extend coil spring life and prevent costly fixes.

Final thoughts

That wraps up the coil spring cost UK guide. These steps help keep your car in good condition and reduce long-term costs.

As always, if you suspect you have a broken coil spring, visit a professional for expert advice and don’t tamper with your vehicle if you don’t have experience with cars. Better safe than sorry!

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