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. Keep reading to understand everything about fixing a broken coil spring in minutes.  

How much does it cost to replace a coil spring? 

The average cost of a coil spring replacement in the UK is between £180 to £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. 

Dealership service centres tend to charge more for parts and labour than independent garages, so it's worth shopping around to find the best price. However, it's essential to consider factors such as warranty coverage, customer reviews, and technician expertise when choosing where to have your coil spring replaced. 

Worried about the costs? With Bumper you could benefit from 0% interest car repair finance and pay monthly for car repairs. 

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. Here’s a list of the main ones: 

• Car make and model — One key factor is the make and model of your car. Some vehicles may require more expensive or specialised parts, which can drive up the replacement cost. 
• Material and quality of replacement springs — Higher-quality and performance-oriented options will generally be more expensive than standard replacements. However, investing in better-quality springs could lead to improved handling and a longer lifespan for your suspension system. 
• Labour costs – Labour costs also play a significant role in determining the total price tag for this type of repair. The complexity of the job and the hourly rate charged by mechanics are the main elements that affect labour prices. 
• Other repair costs — If other suspension components are found to be damaged during inspection, they may need repair or replacement along with the coil spring, increasing overall repair costs but ensuring better vehicle performance and safety. 

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

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

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

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. 

What does a coil spring do? 

A coil spring compresses and expands to absorb the impact of the road, providing a smooth and comfortable ride for passengers.  

It also helps maintain proper wheel alignment and tyre contact with the road surface, which is crucial for safe and efficient driving. 

Properly functioning coil springs are essential for optimal handling, braking, and acceleration, so knowing what to look out for is crucial for you and your family's safety. We’ll cover some signs and broken coil spring symptoms further on in the blog. 

What causes a car coil spring to break? 

There are several reasons why coil spring parts might break or fail over time. 

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 coil spring corroded cost is 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 

How to inspect signs of a failing coil spring 

To inspect your coil springs for damage or wear, you can visually check for cracks, corrosion, or deformation. You should examine the spring every month or whenever you suspect something is wrong. 

If you do suspect something is not quite right, it's best to consult a professional mechanic for further assessment as correctly diagnosing a failing coil spring can be challenging.

Can you drive with a broken coil spring? 

Driving with a broken coil spring is not recommended, as it can compromise your vehicle's handling, braking, and overall safety.  

A broken spring can also cause damage to other suspension components or your tyres, leading to more expensive repairs down the line. This also leads to an unsafe vehicle, which may put you and other drivers at risk. 

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 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.  

1. Aftermarket manufacturer parts 

One option is to source affordable replacement parts from reputable aftermarket manufacturers. These are more affordable and can decrease your overall broken coil spring repair cost. 

When it comes to your car always be cautious of low-quality parts as they could compromise your vehicle's performance and safety. 

2. DIY replacements  

Another way to save money on coil spring replacement is by considering DIY replacement versus professional service.  

You might consider replacing the coil spring yourself if you have the necessary skills, tools, and confidence. This can potentially save you hundreds of dollars in labour costs alone.  

If you decide to go for a DIY job, then carefully weigh the risks and benefits before attempting this potentially dangerous task. If you don’t have the skills or experience, it’s always best to leave the job to a professional. 

3. Regular maintenance 

Regular maintenance is another key factor in prolonging the life of your coil springs and reducing overall costs.  

Your suspension system should be well-maintained with regular visual inspections, proper wheel alignment, and addressing any issues promptly. This proactive approach can help prevent major repairs down the road while keeping your car running smoothly. 

Coil spring replacement costs - Final thoughts 

In summary, saving money on coil spring replacement requires careful consideration of all available options including sourcing affordable parts from reputable manufacturers, weighing the risks versus benefits of DIY replacement versus professional service as well as regular maintenance practices. Taking all these factors into account should mean you’ll be able to keep your vehicle in tip-top shape for longer periods which, over time, will reduce the overall maintenance cost! Whatever route you decide on, you can look after your car and your bank balance by splitting the cost of repairs into interest-free monthly instalments.  

Split the cost with Bumper 

Join the Bumper community and get access to the best care for you and your car with 0% interest car repair finance. Choose a dependable dealership from thousands across the UK and split your repair bill into monthly chunks. 

Author - Joseph Law

Joseph has been writing about cars for over seven years and writing for Bumper for over two, blending his passion for automobiles with a talent for storytelling.

Joseph has written about engineering and cars for Autozilla, Komaspec, and several engineering manufacturers. When he's not writing or tinkering with one of his five cars, Joseph dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale.