Annabelle Clarke

PR Manager

Annabelle Clarke | Author

Eduardo Rodrigues

Content Writer

Claudia Tuñón

Isobel Coughlan

Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Alastair Shephard

Having your car repaired can be a frustrating experience, especially when the mechanic doesn’t actually fix the car! This can result in more time, 

If you have a problem with a car repair or 

, the best thing to do is negotiate the best solution with the garage. If your negotiations fail, you can take additional steps to resolve your issue. 

This article will explore what you can do if you paid for a car repair, but the car wasn’t fixed and what steps you can take to protect yourself and your vehicle. Let’s dive straight into it. 

I paid for a car repair but it’s not fixed 

So, you’ve paid for a repair, but it’s not fixed. Now what? Do you have to pay still?

You can expect a refund if you have paid for a repair service, but your car has still not been fixed. Or, the mechanic should fix the problem at no additional cost to you. 

If the mechanic refuses to do either, you may need further action. 

It’s important to remember the specific instructions before accusing a garage of charging for nothing. Diagnostic services cost money, time, and expertise, such as when a complex issue is present. 

What happens if the dealership can't fix your car in the UK?

You should consult your vehicle's warranty. If your car is still under warranty, the dealership may be obligated to fix the problem at no cost. 

You can also take your car to another dealership or a reputable independent mechanic for a second opinion. If the problem is confirmed, you may be able to negotiate a better solution with the first dealership. Note that you’ll have to pay a diagnostic fee, as mechanics don’t give second opinions for free. 

File a complaint with the manufacturer. If the problem is widespread and the dealership can't fix it, you may want to file a complaint with the manufacturer's customer service department. They may offer a solution or a goodwill repair. 

What to do when the mechanic doesn't fix the problem 

If you’ve realised the mechanic hasn’t fixed the initial problem, it can be tough to know where to start and do you have to pay the mechanic if they haven't repaired your car? Here are three steps you can take if your mechanic hasn’t fixed your car. 

Before taking any action, it is crucial to understand your rights. If you have paid for a repair service, you can expect the problem to be fixed. 

If the problem persists after the repair has been made, you can seek a remedy, which can be a repair or a refund. 

The first step in dealing with a mechanic is to contact them and explain the problem. Speak with the garage in person or over the phone; you may be able to remedy the issue swiftly. 

If they don't agree to correct the issue right away, you should write or email the garage. This is to record the situation and your correspondence with them. A paper trail is essential if the situation escalates! 

If you're having trouble with the garage, you have alternatives for getting the work done or claiming compensation. However, you should always try to negotiate with the garage first. 

While you are disputing the bill, the garage cannot sell or dispose of the vehicle. They can, however, 

Before spending more money on rental cars or travelling, always ask your garage what they can do to assist you. For example, they may be able to provide you with a courtesy car. A court is unlikely to award you money if the garage provides services you did not use. 

When disputing a charge, it's a good idea to keep a record of any extra money you have to pay for travel, as well as receipts. You may need to prove this later on. 

Other steps you can take if you paid for a car repair but the car wasn’t fixed

Here are some additional steps if your repair wasn’t fixed. These may not apply to all scenarios, so check whether each tip is relevant to your situation before acting. 

We understand the last thing you want to do is pay for an unfixed car. 

However, if you need the car back but are unhappy with the price, you can pay 'under protest' and continue your case. This indicates you are paying the whole cost but informing the garage that further action is likely. 

Write "paid under protest" clearly on their copy of the repair order form and any copies of receipts made by the garage. If you do not state that you are paying under protest, it will be difficult to obtain reimbursement later on because the garage may argue that by paying the bill, you accepted the charges. 

There's no assurance you'll receive your money back afterwards, but it isn't impossible. If you can't afford to pay, offer to pay a modest sum in exchange for the car's return, then dispute the balance of the invoice separately. 

Investigate whether the garage is a trade organisation member (for example, 

). These organisations can help settle disputes, and you can usually find affiliations on the garage’s website. 

Some trade groups will provide a free service to assist you in resolving your disagreement with the garage, which may include obtaining reimbursement (e.g. being out of pocket or wasting your time). 

Contact the trade association and explain your situation—this is sometimes referred to as a 'conciliation service'. However, an association can only assist you if the garage is a member. 

3. Use an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Scheme 

Enquire if the garage is a member of an alternative dispute resolution (

) system. This is a method of resolving problems without going to court. A third party will mediate to try to reach an agreement. 

Keep a record of when you ask them if they don't respond, aren't part of an ADR scheme, or won't utilise an ADR. You’ll need these details if you do end up in court. 

Going to another garage is a dangerous alternative because you'll almost certainly need to go to court or a trade association to be reimbursed for the extra money you spent on the work. There's also no guarantee that you will receive your money back. 

Some cars won't be able to go to another garage due to safety concerns. Assess whether your vehicle is safe to drive before attempting to drive it. 

5. Report the garage to trading standards 

You can report the garage to Trading Standards if they quote one price but charge another. 

You can also report misleading advertising or unfair tactics. Reporting the garage may mean that they do not mislead future clients, but it won’t help your current situation. 

Generally, a car repair should take a few days. 

a car can vary greatly depending on the issue's complexity. 

If the repair is taking longer than expected, it is essential to communicate with the mechanic to find out what is causing the delay. 

My car was damaged by the garage during a service 

If your car was damaged in the garage, you should try to get them to pay for the repairs. It's best to point out the damages as soon as possible. Otherwise, you'll be perceived as having accepted what's happened. 

The most they have to provide is the cost of repairing the damage. For example, if somebody scratched your car door, they should cover the expense of repairing the door rather than purchasing a new door. 

To bolster your argument, you can prove that you know your legal rights. Remind them that you're aware that "

traders have a responsibility of care under the Consumer Rights Act 2015.

The garage may put a notice on their property stating they are not responsible for any damage. This is an 'unfair term,' which means they are still accountable. You should inform them of this. 

How to assess the damage from a car service

If you suspect damage from a car service, you need to stay calm and collected. Rash decisions can go against you in the future. Here are some steps you can take to assess the damage: 

Some car owners take photos and notes of their cars before services to act as a comparison afterwards. This can be helpful for future services. 

What to do if the garage refuses to make repairs

Contact the garage's insurance company, the trade association, or the car manufacturer for assistance if they refuse to make repairs. 

If the garage refuses to accept liability and you must file a claim with your insurance, your no-claims bonus may be affected, so also check with your insurer. 

What if the mechanic created a new problem? 

A mechanic may introduce a new problem while attempting to repair an existing one. This can be aggravating and may necessitate more time and money spent on correcting the problem. If this occurs, contacting the mechanic and seeking a remedy is critical. 

You may be able to claim for the damage on your car insurance, depending on the type of insurance you have. If you do, you may forfeit your no-claims bonus. You might also contact the garage's insurance carrier to get them to pay for the repairs. They are not, however, legally required to do so. 

How to find a reputable garage - Final thoughts

After paying for car repairs but not receiving a satisfying fix, you might want to avoid garages and mechanics for a while. However, don’t forget that plenty of reputable garages exist. 

Take the stress out of car repairs with Bumper’s expert connections and customer-centred financing. 

Bumper’s wide network of approved partners is vetted and approved. Plus, 

Bumper offers zero-interest financing for car repairs

 to help get you back on the road as quickly as possible. Enter your postcode and registration plate to 

 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.

What If The Mechanic Doesn't Fix My Car? 

JCB Euro SEAT & Skoda Crawley have been crowned Dealership of the Month for February 2023. 

The site has shown that by implementing Bumper's Open Banking product, they have been able to save time and money when taking payments for value added products across their sales department. 

 allows customers to make payments using their bank credentials direct to the dealership’s bank account. This avoids the use of third-party processors – which significantly reduces a dealership’s payment fees and is far faster (funds are received in a matter of seconds). 

Additionally, transactions require bank authentication within the customer’s banking app, mitigating the risk of fraudulent payments for the retailer. 

The trophy was presented on-site by Bumper Business Development Consultant, Jack McHale. Jack is pictured above with James Woodard who accepted on behalf of the JCB sales team. 

Jack said, “The JCB group were already a great Bumper partner with our PayLater solution and have implemented Open Banking into their sales & aftersales process, with Crawley taking the award for how quickly they adopted this new payment option since launch.” 

Congratulations to James and the team on your win! 

Reduce fraud and processing fees with Open Banking 

If you would like to discuss adding Open Banking to your existing Bumper account, get in touch via 

JCB Euro SEAT & Skoda Crawley awarded Dealership of the Month

The best car finance deal offers you affordability and good value. Still, it’s not always easy to unearth a great deal amidst all the technical details and jargon. So we’ve put together a guide to finding the best car finance deals in 2023. 

We'll help you wade through that jargon, hone in on the details you need to know and guide you towards the best possible finance deal for you. 

Is it better to finance a car through a bank or a dealership?

Dealerships can offer attractive packages if you want the flexibility of a PCP. Financing your car through a bank can also be good if you get pre-approved for a loan. You also don’t have to worry about mileage caps. 

Ultimately, it depends on what you’re looking for but I suggest that if you’re pre-approved by your bank you should then go to a dealership and compare their finance quotes to get a full picture of what's available. 

Taking out a 5-year car loan can be worth it compared to a shorter-term loan if you want to make lower monthly repayments. Bear in mind that the overall cost of buying the car will be higher as you’ll pay more in interest. 

Of course, during the loan period, you can refinance your car but there are positives and negatives to that option, so you'll need to decide if 

What’s the easiest way to finance a car?

The easiest way to finance a new car could be with PCP as this type of finance offers you flexibility, but a hire purchase deal may also be suitable. If you’re buying a used car, consider funding it with a personal loan or cash. 

Finding the best car finance deal does take time, but armed with the details and need-to-knows we’ve talked about you’ll soon be on your way to owning that dream car.

PCP offers flexibility when the contract finishes. You could buy the car outright, upgrade it, or hand it back to the dealership if you don’t want to continue. 

With a hire purchase agreement, you don’t own the car until the final payment is made. You pay a deposit and then the rest of the loan is divided into repayments, generally over five years. 

A personal loan spreads the cost over a fixed period and the interest rate is also fixed. 

What do you need to know when looking for the best car finance deals?

Three key figures to look at and compare are the percentage APR, the interest rate, and the loan term. So what do these mean? 

APR, or Annual Percentage Rate, is the total cost you’ll pay in a year for borrowing money. The APR includes the lender’s standard fees plus the interest rate. There are two different types of APR: 

This is a representative figure you can use to compare car finance deals as a first step. Be aware, though, that even if lenders advertise what seems like a ‘good’ APR, they’re not obliged to offer it to you. This is where personal APR comes in. 

A personal APR takes account of your personal financial situation, including your credit history, how much you want to borrow, and for how long. Based on this you could be offered a higher or lower APR, or the one advertised. 

The interest rate on your loan determines how much you’ll pay over and above the amount you’re borrowing. The higher the interest rate, the more you’ll pay for your car overall. When you take out a loan the interest is added and the total is divided into monthly instalments. 

The interest rate you’re offered is based on your financial circumstances in the same way as the APR, so the basic difference between interest rates and APRs is that the APR figure includes the lender’s fees. 

This is the length of time you’ll repay the loan. Choosing a shorter loan term means you’ll pay less in interest overall but your monthly repayments will be higher. A longer loan term means lower monthly instalments but the total cost of financing your car will be higher. 

It’s essential to know how much your car finance will really cost as lenders typically charge a range of fees. These can include an application or administration fee, early repayment fees, and in the case of a PCP deal, a price for exceeding the mileage cap. 

How to find the best car finance deal in 2023

Compare deals online using the APR figure as a starting point. You could also use a broker to find the best deals on your behalf. This can save time and many brokers work on a commission-only basis, which means you won’t pay a fee for their service. 

Use pre-approval to protect your credit score

If you narrow down your search to one or two deals that seem good, see if the lender(s) will pre-approve you for the loan. Or if you’re going for a bank loan, ask your bank if they can do this. 

If you can negotiate down the price of the car you might be eligible for better finance deals in terms of the interest rate or length of the loan term. 

Think about the running costs as well as the purchase price

Even if you’ve found a good finance deal, think about how much it’ll cost you to run the car. A car with a bigger engine could cost you more in fuel and insurance, so factor in the total cost of owning it before you go ahead. 

The fine print will include any ‘hidden’ costs, such as early repayment fees and late payment penalties, as well as the interest rate, APR, and loan term. 

You need to shop around to find a good car finance deal and ensure your credit rating is as high as possible. Also, consider putting down a larger deposit if you can - 10% or more if possible - to lower your monthly repayments. 

You can get 0% car finance deals but you need to have an excellent credit rating. They’re commonly offered on new cars rather than used cars and can save you a lot of money. Be careful, though, because there might be other fees to add on that could make the 0% car finance less attractive. 

A good APR is typically between 6% and 12% but this may only be available if you have a good or excellent credit score. If your credit score is lower, an APR between 13% and 20% could be considered good. 

Bumper offers interest-free loans for car repairs so we’ve got you covered when you find that special deal. Available at over 4000 garages and dealerships.

2023 Guide to the Best Car Finance Deals 

On average, a ball joint replacement costs £90 in the UK.

Replacing worn-out ball joints is essential for keeping your ride smooth and safe, but the cost can be higher than expected.

In this ball joint replacement cost guide, we’ll break down the process and help you make a smart, budget-friendly decision.

How much to replace a ball joint in the UK?

The average ball joint replacement in the UK costs £90, but prices typically sit between £75 and £180, depending on your car and how many joints need replacing.

Labour is a big part of the bill, especially if specialist tools or skills are needed. Extra parts like bolts or gaskets can also add up. Let’s take a closer look at prices and the factors that affect them.

Cars known for ball joint wear (and cost guide)

Some cars are more prone to ball joint wear than others, and when they go, the repair bill can vary. 

Here's a quick look at models known for frequent issues and what you can expect to pay to put things right.

Ball joint replacement cost guide by car make 

Can’t see your vehicle in the table above? We’ve listed the average ball joint replacement costs per popular manufacturer below.

How location affects ball joint replacement cost

Did you know your location can also affect your ball joint replacement costs? Mechanics in London and other big cities tend to charge more than those in smaller towns. 

How long does it take to replace a ball joint? 

The time required to change a ball joint can vary depending on how much work needs to be done and the mechanic's skill. 

The average lifespan of a ball joint is between

If driven in rough conditions or poorly maintained, your car’s ball joints may wear out faster. Different vehicles have varying lifespans, so regular maintenance checks are essential to keep ball joints working well and extend their life.

How much should it cost to get a ball joint replaced?

There’s no one price for every ball joint replacement. Several key factors influence the potential cost, and these include:

If you can’t pay the cost in one go, you can consider Bumper's 

Ball joints connect the control arm or steering knuckle to the wheel hub, acting like a shoulder joint to allow smooth suspension and steering movement.

Upper ball joints help absorb turning forces and maintain alignment. Lower ball joints serve as pivot points and may carry the vehicle’s weight or simply guide movement, depending on the suspension setup.

Ball joints often cause loud clunking noises when driving over bumps or turning due to metal rubbing on metal from wear or looseness. 

But that’s not the only sign to look out for. A bad ball joint can cause several issues, including:

If you notice any of these, get your car checked promptly to avoid costly repairs. Many worn ball joints are caught during routine MOTs or service visits.

Front ball joints usually wear out first because they handle the stress of steering and manoeuvring. 

There are two main types: metal, which is more durable and expensive, and rubber, which is cheaper but wears out faster, especially under tough conditions like off-roading or rough terrain.

Driving with failing ball joints is dangerous and can cause steering issues, uneven tyre wear, and loss of control. It may also be illegal in some areas. 

If you must drive, stay within speed limits, avoid highways, and watch for pulling or vibrations. Address the problem promptly to keep yourself and others safe on the road.

What happens during a ball joint replacement? 

Most ball joint replacements follow the same process. Here are the main steps:

If replacing all four ball joints is too costly, start by fixing only the faulty ones to save money and time.

However, if all need replacement, it’s best to do it promptly to avoid further damage.

Replacing them one at a time can help spread costs, but the priority is to address the issue before more damage occurs.

Ball joint replacement can be costly, but it’s worth it.

These components are key to safe steering and handling. Replacing worn joints early helps prevent further damage and keeps your car driving smoothly, safely, and as it should.

Replacing your car’s ball joints can be a bit pricey, but it’s key for keeping you safe and steering smoothly. 

Keep an eye out for signs of wear so you can fix problems early before they turn into bigger and more expensive issues.

Need to cover a surprise ball join replacement cost?

, you can split the cost of repairs into monthly payments at no extra cost. 

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

How Much Does a Ball Joint Replacement Cost? (UK Guide)

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MOT and servicing – they often come up at the same time, especially when it’s time for your annual garage visit. But they’re not the same thing, and knowing the difference can save you money, time, and stress. Let’s break it all down: what an MOT involves, what a car service includes, and why both are essential for keeping your car road-ready. 

An MOT is a mandatory annual test that checks whether your car meets the minimum safety and environmental standards set by the Ministry of Transport. It’s a legal requirement for vehicles over three years old in the UK.

If your vehicle doesn’t pass its MOT test, you can’t legally drive it, and you could be fined up to £1,000 for doing so. MOTs are all about road safety and making sure your vehicle isn’t emitting more pollution than allowed by emissions standards.

Did you know? Nearly 10 million cars failed their MOTs in 2024 – 

An MOT checks for everything that affects a car’s safety, legality, and emissions, including:

A car service is a routine check-up that keeps your vehicle in good condition. Unlike an MOT, a service isn’t required by law, though skipping it can lead to bigger (more expensive) problems later on. 

There are different types of service, depending on your service schedule and mileage. Here’s a breakdown of what’s usually included:

These service items help maintain your car’s condition, boost reliability, and keep your car aligned with manufacturer standards. Skipping them can reduce your fuel efficiency and increase the chance of breakdowns.

MOT vs service: What’s the actual difference?

 from Bumper splits the cost of MOT and service work into manageable 0% interest instalments. 

 at one of our 5000+ partnered garages to keep your car in good condition without breaking the bank.

Yes, you do need to keep on top of all MOTs and servicing because: 

Even if your MOT passes, you might still need a service to stay ahead of wear and tear. And if you only service your car but skip the MOT, you risk driving a car that isn’t roadworthy.

If you’re unsure when you should book your next MOT or service, here’s a quick guide: 

If possible, book them together. Not only does this save time, but it can also get you a better deal on each.

Stay road-ready and stress-free with Bumper’s car repair finance

Need an MOT and service but dreading the bill? With Bumper, you can split the 

 into handy, interest-free payments. Whether it’s your annual service, MOT, or an unexpected repair, our 

 helps you stay in control and on the road. Join thousands of drivers and take the sting out of your car upkeep. 

An MOT test usually takes around 45–60 minutes if no repairs are needed. A car service can take 1–3 hours, depending on whether it’s an interim, full, or major service. If carried out together, allow half a day to complete both, especially if issues are found.

 for cars. A service varies depending on the type:

Booking both together often saves money compared to separate visits.

Yes. Electric cars still require an MOT after three years, just like petrol or diesel cars, to ensure safety and roadworthiness. While EVs don’t need oil changes or exhaust checks, they do need servicing for brakes, tyres, suspension, battery health, and software updates to keep them running safely and efficiently.

The difference between MOT and service

If you’re struggling to pay for car repairs, or are in dispute with a garage about the service provided, this article explains your rights, responsibilities and how to deal with the threat of a garage keeping hold of your car for non-payment. 

As consumers we all have a significant level of rights and privileges that serve to protect us in purchases, and it’s best to be armed with a good knowledge of the legal obligations of both yourself and the garage carrying out the work. 

 states that: Under the laws of the Supply of Goods and Services Act 1982 and the Sale and Supply of Goods to Consumers Regulations 2002, garages have to provide work to your car that is: 

If you believe that these conditions are not met, there may be some further steps you can take - the first step however is to communicate as best you can, with the garage, laying out your issues with their service. 

What to try first - how to mediate yourself 

If you find yourself confused with a large repair bill, or want some form of compensation or remuneration for the inconvenience caused by a garage, it’s often better to discuss with the garage first before resorting to legal action. 

Stating your consumer rights might be necessary, but it’s often better to talk through the problem first with the manager, to identify their side of the story. Be polite and friendly, and try not to accuse the garage of any wrongdoing straight away. 

You may find a reasonable explanation for the large bill, or the garage being a bit more willing to discuss options for fixing the dispute. 

A fairly common complaint with some garages is finding additional costs on your bill, for work you were not aware of. There are guidelines around how a garage should proceed with unforeseen breakages. 

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The difference between MOT and service

Can a Garage Keep My Car For Nonpayment?

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