If you’ve ever walked into a garage and felt blindsided by the bill, you’re not alone. Knowing how much a repair or part should cost before you hand over your keys can save you time, stress, and money. This page pulls together the most useful cost information from our recent guides, so you can get a realistic picture of what you’ll spend on common fixes.
We’ve broken down the biggest cost drivers into easy‑to‑read sections. Each one includes a quick snapshot of what you might pay in 2025, plus the factors that push the price up or down.
Radiator Replacement – A full radiator swap typically runs between £300 and £600, parts and labour combined. Luxury or performance models can bump the price toward £900. Look out for extra charges like coolant flush, taxes, or special fittings.
Clutch Replacement – Expect to spend £500‑£950 for a standard clutch kit and installation. High‑performance or “stage 4” kits for enthusiasts can hit £1,200 or more. Labor time is a big part of the bill, so shop around for a shop that offers a flat rate.
Fuel Pump Replacement – The average cost sits at £350‑£600. Cheap pumps may save upfront money but often lead to earlier failure. A quality pump with a warranty is worth the extra £50‑£100.
Brake Pads & Rotors – Front pads usually cost £80‑£150, rear pads a bit less. Rotors add another £100‑£250 per axle. If you’re replacing both pads and rotors, you’re looking at a total of £300‑£500.
Knowing the price range is only half the battle. Here are three practical moves you can make right now to keep the final invoice lower.
1. Get Multiple Quotes – Even within the same city, rates vary a lot. Call three local garages, ask for a written estimate, and compare both parts cost and labor hours.
2. Ask About Aftermarket Options – For many parts, a reputable aftermarket component matches OEM quality at a fraction of the price. Our guide on aftermarket exhausts walks you through when it’s safe to choose an alternative.
3. Stay on Top of Preventive Maintenance – A regular coolant flush, brake inspection, or spark plug check can catch problems before they become costly failures. For example, catching a failing fuel pump early can shave off up to £200 in labor.
Remember, the cheapest quote isn’t always the best. Look for shops that are transparent about parts sourcing and warranty coverage. A reputable garage will explain why a particular price makes sense, not just hand you a number.
Below is a quick reference to the most popular cost guides on our site. Use these as a starting point, then dive deeper into the specific article that matches your need.
By keeping these numbers and tips in mind, you’ll walk into any service centre with confidence and a clear idea of what you should be paying. No more guessing, no more surprise bills – just smarter, cost‑aware car care.
