Car Bonnet Repair Cost Guide

Car bonnet repair costs can range from £50 for a minor issue to over £1,000 for a complete replacement.

Your car bonnet is one of the most noticeable parts of your vehicle, but it’s also prone to dents and scratches, which can be very evident once they make a mark, whether it’s a minor ding from a shopping trolley or a more serious impact.

This guide breaks down everything UK drivers need to know about car bonnet repair costs in 2026.

How much does a car bonnet repair cost?

Repairing a car bonnet in the UK can vary widely. Minor dents or scratches may only cost £50 to £150, while more extensive damage, such as replacement or respraying, can run from £400 to over £1,000.

Factors influencing cost include labour rates, the type of materials needed, the extent of the bonnet damage, and whether OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts are used.

No matter the state of your care bonnet, you can use car repair finance to split the bill into interest-free repayments.

Car bonnet repair cost by type of repair

Overall, the main deciding car bonnet repair costs is the type of damage and repair needed.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common issues and costs.

Car bonnet repair cost by material

Not all car bonnets are made from the same material, and this also influences the final repair cost.

The most common bonnet materials include:

• Steel - Most common and easier to repair

• Aluminium - Lighter material, but more expensive labour costs

• Carbon fibre - Usually on high-end vehicles, and specialist repairs are required

Here’s how the repair costs can measure up (for panel replacements and major structural repairs):

How much does it cost to get a bonnet resprayed?

A full bonnet respray typically costs £150 to £400 for standard vehicles, depending on the paint type and quality. Metallic, pearlescent, or custom colours usually increase the price.

If you opt for a respray, always get a garage to match the colour properly to avoid noticeable differences. Also, if you change your car colour, you must update your V5C.

How long does it take to replace a car bonnet?

Replacing a bonnet usually takes 2 to 4 hours.

This time estimate includes the removal of the damaged part, fitting the new bonnet, and making adjustments for alignment.

Additional time may be required if respraying or rust treatment is needed. Respraying a bonnet can take an extra 3 to 6 hours.

Does insurance cover car bonnet repairs?

Yes and no. Insurance may cover bonnet repairs if the damage was caused by an accident, theft, or other vandalism.

Comprehensive policies often cover such repairs, but you may need to pay the excess, and minor dings may not be claimed. Always check your policy and speak to your insurer before booking a repair.

The main causes of car bonnet damage

Car bonnet problems can range from small chips to complete structural damage. However, some causes are more common than others, including:

• Minor collisions or parking bumps

• Hail or falling debris

• Vandalism

• Stone chips from the road

• Rust or corrosion in older vehicles

How to fix a chipped bonnet?

Small paint chips from stones or other small dings can be fixed with touch-up paint kits for £10 to £30.

Larger chips may require sanding and priming before respraying by a professional to prevent rust and restore appearance.

Any chip larger than around 5 mm (roughly the size of a pencil eraser) is usually considered too big for a DIY repair.

How to prevent future car bonnet damage

Sometimes, bonnet damage is unavoidable or caused by an accident. However, there are a few ways you can avoid chips and dings, such as:

• Park away from tight spaces and high-traffic areas

• Use car covers if leaving the vehicle outside

• Apply protective coatings or wax

• Avoid harsh chemicals when cleaning the bonnet

Is it worth fixing a front bumper?

Yes. Damaged bodywork can affect the car’s resale value and, in severe cases, compromise safety.

Minor scratches can be cost-effective to repair, while significant damage may justify replacement. In severe cases, weigh up the value of the car against the total repair cost to help you make a decision.

Is a dented bonnet an MOT failure?

Not automatically. A dented bonnet is generally not an MOT issue unless it prevents the bonnet from closing properly or poses a safety risk, such as obstructing the driver’s view.

Can I drive with a damaged bonnet?

It depends on the severity.

Minor cosmetic damage is usually safe to drive with, but a bonnet that doesn’t latch securely or has sharp edges can be dangerous. Also, if the bonnet obscures your view, you shouldn’t make any journeys.

If your broken bonnet is unsafe, arrange repairs promptly to avoid accidents or further damage.

Last thoughts

Car bonnet repairs in the UK can range from minor dent removal to full panel replacement, with costs influenced by material and repair type.

Hopefully, we’ve guided you to the right car bonnet repair cost for your vehicle. Remember, once your car is repaired, regular maintenance and protective measures can help you avoid higher costs in the long run.

Split the cost with Bumper

Get your car bonnet back in shape. A car repair loan can split the cost into interest-free repayments.

Apply online for up to £5,000 and choose from 1,000s of trusted repairers.