Car Repair and Part Costs Made Simple

When your car starts acting up, the first thing on your mind is usually the price tag. Knowing the average cost of common jobs helps you plan, avoid shock, and decide if you can DIY or need a pro.

Typical Repair Costs

A new set of tyres in Northwich runs about £80‑£120 per tyre for standard brands, plus roughly £15‑£25 each for fitting and balancing. If you need a tyre alignment, add another £30‑£45.

Brake pads are another frequent expense. Front pads cost £40‑£70 for parts, and a garage will charge around £30‑£50 for labour. Rear‑only pad changes follow a similar price range.

Clutch replacement is a bigger ticket item. Parts for a standard clutch kit sit between £120‑£250, while labour can add £200‑£350 depending on the model. That puts a full job at £320‑£600.

Suspension work varies a lot. Replacing a bent control arm or damaged shock absorber usually costs £80‑£150 for the part and £100‑£200 for fitting. If the whole suspension needs a rebuild, expect £500‑£1,200 total.

Air filters are cheap compared with other parts. A premium filter may cost £20‑£35, while a basic one is £8‑£15. Labour is often included if you have a service scheduled.

Fuel pump replacement can run £150‑£300 for the part, plus £150‑£250 labour. Testing the pump before replacement saves money; a quick pressure test costs about £30‑£50 at most shops.

Spark plugs are straightforward. A set of four for a typical petrol engine is £15‑£30, and a garage will fit them for £30‑£50.

How to Keep Costs Down

Shop around. Prices differ between independent garages and large chains. Get at least three quotes for big jobs like clutch or suspension work.

Ask if the shop uses aftermarket parts that meet the same standards as OEM. Often they’re cheaper and last just as long.

Combine services. If you need a tyre rotation, have the mechanic also check brake wear or fluid levels. Bundling saves labour time.

Maintain regularly. Simple things like keeping tyre pressure right, changing oil on schedule, and replacing air filters at recommended intervals prevent costly breakdowns later.

Consider DIY for easy jobs. Replacing a battery, changing a cabin air filter, or swapping brake pads on a simple front‑only system can be done with basic tools and a good YouTube guide.

Finally, keep a record of every service. When you show a repeat history, some garages give loyalty discounts or waive diagnostic fees.

Understanding these typical costs and smart strategies puts you in control. No more guessing, no more surprise bills—just clear, practical info to keep your car happy and your wallet healthier.