A sump oil leak is a common issue that can unfortunately affect many cars, from everyday hatchbacks to performance models. 

The sump, located at the bottom of the engine, holds the oil that lubricates internal components. Leaks often occur for various reasons and can cost anywhere from £50 to £700 to repair, depending on the issue.

Fixing a sump leak promptly helps prevent more serious engine damage and keeps repair costs manageable. Here’s everything you need to know!

How much does it cost to fix a sump oil leak?

In the UK, the cost of repairing a sump oil leak typically ranges from £120 to over £700, depending on the severity and repair method. 

Repairs could be as low as £50 for bolt replacements, but we’ll break these down below. 

If the oil pan is damaged and requires replacement, or if other engine components are affected, costs can rise significantly. No matter the repair or fee, you can also use 

 to split the final cost into interest-free instalments.

Typical sump oil leak repair costs by component

£50 to £700 is a large range for potential sump oil leak repair costs. Here’s how it actually breaks down in 2026.

Note that these are average prices, and costs may also vary depending on your car’s engine layout, sump accessibility, and whether additional engine work is needed.

It can be, but it depends on the overall damage. A simple gasket replacement is relatively affordable, whereas replacing a damaged sump or dealing with corrosion around the pan can push costs higher. 

Factors that influence the final bill include:

In general, acting early often keeps the repair in the lower price range, making sump repairs a cost-effective solution compared to potential engine damage.

How long does it take to repair a sump leak?

Repair times vary with the type of fix. Your garage will provide a precise estimate once the car is lifted and the extent of the leak is assessed.

Sump leaks usually result from a few recurring issues, and many can be prevented by regular checks and servicing.

Consider these four factors if you notice a sump oil leak issue.

Technically, small leaks may allow short trips, but it’s not recommended. 

Driving with a sump leak reduces oil levels, risks engine overheating, and can lead to severe internal damage or even cause an accident. 

The longer the leak is ignored, the higher the chance of a major repair and a larger bill!

A minor leak may not fail an MOT immediately, but a persistent drip that causes visible oil on the road or engine damage could. 

MOT testers also check for leaks that compromise safety or environmental standards. So, it’s best not to risk it. Repairs should be addressed before to avoid failure.

What happens if you ignore a sump oil leak?

Ignoring a sump leak can quickly escalate costs and risks. 

Low oil levels from ignoring a sump leak can lead to:

For example, a sump leak repair that might cost £150 to £250 for a gasket can escalate to £700 if the oil pan or engine suffers damage. Don’t put it off.

Sump oil leaks are a frustrating, common, but manageable issue when identified early. 

Regular inspections, prompt repairs, and using a certified garage help protect your engine and keep sump oil leak repair costs under control. This is your sign to book the service!

If you’ve noticed a sump oil leak, it’s time to put a stop to it. Use a 

 to split the cost of sump oil leaks into interest-free repayments today.

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

How much does a sump oil leak repair cost?

Owning a Tesla comes with plenty of benefits, but when it comes to bodywork, even minor scratches can feel more expensive than in traditional cars. 

Tesla paint finishes, aluminium panels, and the placement of advanced sensors all influence repair costs, which can range from £80 to £1,200+ for full panel respray. 

Below, we break down Tesla scratch repair costs depending on the type of damage and severity.

How much does it cost to repair a scratch on a Tesla?

The cost of repairing a scratch on a Tesla in the UK typically ranges from £80 to over £1,200, and these costs largely depend on the depth of the damage, the panel affected, and the repair method needed.

Light surface scratches that only affect the clear coat are relatively inexpensive to fix, while deeper scratches that expose the primer or metal often require repainting, which increases costs significantly. 

Panels with sensors or cameras, such as bumpers and doors, can also cost more to repair. However, you can use 

 to split the cost of any Tesla scratch repair into interest-free repayments.

Typical Tesla scratch repair costs by damage severity

Let’s break the Tesla scratch repair costs down even further.

Here are some general averages you can expect in 2026. Note that costs vary depending on the model (Model 3, Model Y, Model S, or Model X), paint colour, and local labour rates.

As with any car damage, repair times depend on severity. Your garage will give you a personalised estimate, but general repair times take:

Remember that if sensors or cameras need recalibration, repair times can increase slightly.

Yes, but not always. Some scratches on a Tesla can be buffed out, but only if they’re shallow and limited to the clear coat.

Buffing removes a very thin layer of clear coat to reduce or eliminate surface marks. However, if the scratch catches your fingernail or exposes paint beneath the clear coat, buffing won’t be effective. DIY polishing also carries a risk of damaging Tesla’s relatively soft paint if done incorrectly.

For anything beyond light scuffs, professional repair is usually safer and more effective.

Many owners feel Teslas scratch more easily than other cars. This perception is often due to a combination of factors:

While Tesla paint meets industry standards, it can highlight imperfections more visibly, especially under direct light.

In contrast to popular belief, Teslas do not automatically “record scratches”, but Sentry Mode can capture footage if it’s enabled and the car detects a nearby threat or impact.

However, Sentry Mode may not activate for very light contact, such as a key scratch or brushing against the car. Camera angles can also limit what’s captured. 

Footage can help with insurance claims in some cases, but it’s not guaranteed to record every incident.

Tesla Service Centres generally do not handle cosmetic scratch repairs directly, unless the damage occurred during servicing or delivery.

Instead, Tesla typically refers owners to Tesla-approved body shops. These repairers meet Tesla’s standards for paint matching, aluminium repairs, and sensor calibration, but their pricing is often higher than that of independent SMART repair specialists.

In most cases, yes, especially for newer vehicles or leased cars.

Professional scratch repairs help maintain resale value, prevent corrosion on exposed metal, and keep the car looking its best. 

Generally, minor repairs are relatively affordable when handled early, while delaying repairs can lead to more expensive paint damage later.

Yes, driving with cosmetic scratches is safe. 

However, deep scratches that expose bare metal should be repaired promptly to prevent corrosion, particularly on aluminium panels where oxidation can spread and affect the car’s structure.

Nothing is more frustrating than noticing a scratch on your car. 

Tesla scratch repair costs vary widely, but understanding the type of damage makes it easier to choose the right repair approach. Light scratches can often be fixed affordably, while deeper damage may require professional repainting. Book early, and your Tesla will be fixed up in no time.

Get your Tesla looking new again. You can use a 

 to split the cost of Tesla scratch repair into interest-free repayments.

How much does a Tesla scratch repair cost?

DSG gearboxes offer the fuel efficiency of a manual gearbox, with the convenience of a traditional automatic gearbox. Volkswagen introduced the first DSG gearbox in a production car in 2003 and has since developed them to be even better and more reliable. 

But, despite their improvements in reliability, DSG gearboxes can still be the cause of large repair bills, particularly on older or less well-maintained cars. In this article, we’ll discuss how much it typically costs to repair a DSG gearbox, and what issues to look out for. 

How much does it cost to repair a DSG gearbox?

Due to their complexity, it can cost anywhere from £200 to £2,500+ to repair a DSG gearbox fault. In some cases, a simple service or software update can remedy the problem; in others, the gearbox or even the car is not worth the repair costs likely to be incurred. 

Software issues, updates and adaptations can sometimes remedy a minor problem; this is likely to cost between £120 and £250, depending on the garage and time it takes to implement.

An oil and filter service will typically cost between £250 and £375. Wet clutch DSG gearboxes can present issues if the gearbox hasn’t been serviced regularly.

Gear selector repairs cost between £150 and £400; most automatic gearboxes use a selector sensor to detect what gear has been selected, and issues with this can cause a variety of issues. 

Expect to pay between £800 and £1,200 for a clutch pack replacement in a dry clutch DSG gearbox, and £1,000 to £1,900 in a wet clutch gearbox.

If a mechatronic unit is faulty and needs to be replaced, a budget of in excess of £1,500. In some cases, replacing the gearbox with a refurbished unit, at between £1,500 and £4,000 might be a better option. 

If you’re expecting a large repair bill, remember that Bumper offers 

A Direct Shift Gearbox, or DSG for short, is a type of automatic gearbox used in many vehicles. It uses two separate electronically controlled clutches that allow extremely quick gear changes. 

Because they do not use an inefficient torque converter like traditional auto gearboxes, they can achieve much better MPG figures, close to those of even manual cars. They also allow for extremely fast gear changes, making them a favourite for performance cars. 

The complex nature of DSG gearboxes means fixing any issues promptly is highly recommended, as they can sometimes develop into worse faults. These are some common DSG gearbox issues:

Despite the large list of common problems and many horror stories floating around, DSG gearboxes can be very reliable, with many cars reaching extremely high mileage.

Many cars that are known for their reliability, such as those made by Skoda, use DSG gearboxes, offering good MPG, fast shifting and most of all, convenience, for many, many miles. 

If you are looking to buy a used car with a DSG gearbox, be sure to check for comprehensive service history, something that is always recommended, but especially important on a car with a DSG gearbox. 

Like all things relating to cars, the reliability of a DSG gearbox is intrinsically linked to regular maintenance. DSG gearbox oil, like all oil, degrades with time and usage. Not changing this or the filter to catch any debris or contaminants can lead to increased clutch wear.

If you own a car with a DSG gearbox, make sure to check the service intervals; they should be detailed in the vehicle's handbook, and have the items completed in advance of the mileage or date due. 

Ensure the garage always uses the correct grade of oil and genuine parts when completing maintenance items. Automatic gearboxes are designed to use a particular viscosity and grade of oil; any deviation could cause running issues or long term reliability issues. 

When buying a used car with a DSG gearbox, again, check the service records meticulously, especially if the car has higher mileage.

If your DSG gearbox is exhibiting poor or jerky gear changes, warning messages, or unusual smells or sounds, it’s recommended to get it looked at as soon as possible. If you’re uneasy with a large repair bill, though, consider using Bumper’s 

. Apply online and choose from 1000s of approved garages.

How Much Does a DSG Gearbox Repair Cost?

While not all Volkswagen Mk5 Golfs develop problems with their sills, they can be vulnerable to rust over time.

Positioned along the lower sides of the car, they’re exposed to water, road salt, and debris, making them vulnerable to rust. Ignoring sill damage can compromise your car’s structural integrity, lead to MOT failures, and ultimately result in costly repairs. 

In 2026, Mk5 Golf Sill repairs range from £80 to £900 for full sill replacement. Keep reading to learn more.

How much does it cost to repair a sill on an Mk5 Golf?

The cost of repairing a sill depends on the extent of rust or damage and whether patch repairs or full replacements are needed. 

On average, Volkswagen UK sill repairs in 2026 fall into these ranges:

The costs aren’t cheap, but note that using professional repairers ensures a durable result and proper corrosion protection, while DIY kits may only mask rust temporarily. You can also explore 

 to split the bill into interest-free repayments.

Typical Mk5 Golf sill repair costs by damage type

While rust is a major culprit in sill damage, it’s not the only damage type. 

Other damage types and potential repair costs include:

How long does sill repair take on a Mk5 Golf?

Mk5 Golf sill repair times depend on severity:

Your garage will give a precise estimate after inspecting the vehicle, and they’ll also inform you if any other parts need to be repaired that aren’t related to the car sill.

Sill rust usually develops due to four main reasons. 

Here’s what to look out for if you own a Volkswagen Mk5 Golf:

Don’t forget that regular washing, underseal maintenance, and prompt attention to chips can reduce the risk of sill rust.

Minor rust may only affect the paint surface, but if left untreated, it can penetrate the metal, causing structural weakness.

Severe sill rust can affect the lower door frames, jacking points, and, sometimes, even the chassis rails. This reduces crash safety and can make other repairs more complicated and expensive.

Is sill rust an MOT failure on a Mk5 Golf?

Yes, sill rust can cause an MOT failure if it compromises structural integrity. 

Even if your Golf passes temporarily, it’s best to repair rust promptly to avoid safety issues and more costly future work.

Can you drive a Mk5 Golf with rusty sills?

You can drive short-term with minor surface rust, but if the sill is weakened or perforated, it becomes a safety risk. 

Driving long-term on structurally compromised sills may lead to further corrosion or cause parts like seat mounts to fail. It can also affect handling and lead to a dangerous drive.

Is it worth repairing sills on a Mk5 Golf?

Yes. Repairing sills preserves structural integrity and protects resale value. It also prevents more expensive chassis or suspension damage. 

Minor rust repairs are relatively affordable, so addressing issues early is almost always cost-effective.

Absolutely. Rust spreads quickly along seams, under paint, and inside panel cavities. 

What starts as a £100 patch can escalate into a £900+ full replacement if ignored. Early treatment is the most effective way to keep repair costs manageable.

Preventative care extends the life of your sills and keeps your Golf safe. 

If you’re interested in getting ahead, add the following actions to your car care schedule:

Mk5 Golf sill repairs are a common issue, but addressing them early keeps costs manageable. Minor surface rust can often be treated for under £150, helping prevent more extensive and expensive damage later on.

Repair your Mk5 Golf sill without extra stress. You can use a 

 to split the cost of sill repairs into interest-free repayments.

How much is an MK5 Golf sill repair?

Mazda MX-5s are loved for their light weight, sharp handling and reliability, but sill corrosion is a well-known weak point, particularly on older models. 

Because the sills form part of the car’s structural strength, issues can affect safety, MOT results and long-term value. The average MX-5 sill repair costs range widely between £80 and £1,200.

Here’s everything you need to know about repairing MX5 sill damage.

How much does it cost to repair sills on an MX-5?

The cost of repairing MX-5 sills in the UK typically ranges from £80 to £1,200+, depending on the extent of corrosion.

Minimal surface rust can often be treated relatively cheaply, but once corrosion spreads inside the sill cavity or reaches the inner structure, repairs become labour-intensive and costly. 

Many MX-5 sill repairs involve cutting out corroded metal and welding in new steel sections, which significantly increases labour time.

As a general rule, early intervention keeps costs manageable, while delayed repairs often require partial or full sill replacement. You can use 

 to split any MX5 repair costs into interest-free repayments.

Typical MX-5 sill repair costs by damage severity

MX-5 sill repair costs vary depending on how far corrosion has progressed and whether inner structural sections are affected. 

You should also remember that prices vary depending on the MX-5 model year, labour rates, and the extent of internal sill corrosion discovered during repair. Keep this in mind when booking your service!

Below is a general guide to what owners can expect to pay in the UK in 2026.

MX-5 sill corrosion is largely down to design and drainage issues. Water enters the sill cavity through the hood drain channels and, over time, becomes trapped inside. 

Combined with road salt and moisture, this creates the perfect environment for rust to develop from the inside out. Because corrosion often starts internally, the outer sill can look fine until significant structural damage has already occurred.

Which Mazda MX-5 models are most affected by sill rust?

All Mazda models can experience sill issues, but sill corrosion is most common on:

These models are particularly vulnerable due to less effective rust protection and drainage design. 

Later NC and ND models are generally better protected, but they’re not immune, especially if drainage channels are blocked or maintenance has been neglected.

Mazda MX5 sill repair times depend on severity. You divide the three main types of sill repair into the following categories:

Paint curing and corrosion protection treatments can extend repair times, but these steps are essential for long-term durability. Your garage will let you know if your Mazda requires any additional work.

Yes. Sill rust can cause an MOT failure if it affects structural areas.

MOT testers pay close attention to corrosion within 30cm of seatbelt mounts, suspension components and jacking points. Any perforation or weakened metal in these areas is likely to result in a failure.

Even if the car passes with advisories, repairs shouldn’t be delayed, or you might risk expensive repairs.

Technically, yes, but it’s best not to.

Light surface rust isn’t immediately dangerous, but once corrosion becomes structural, driving the car poses safety risks.

Weakened sills reduce crash protection and compromise chassis integrity. Continued driving also allows corrosion to spread further into the sill cavity, significantly increasing repair costs.

In most cases, yes. MX-5s hold their value well, especially clean, rust-free examples.

It’s worth repairing sills because repairs:

For enthusiasts and long-term owners, sill repair is usually a worthwhile investment.

Can MX-5 sill rust spread if left untreated?

Absolutely. Rust spreads quickly inside sill cavities, often unseen before it becomes a major problem.

A little £200 surface repair can escalate into a £1,000+ structural rebuild if ignored. Once inner sills rot through, repairs become more complex and costly.

Overall, yes. MX-5s are generally affordable to maintain compared to many sports cars.

Routine servicing, brake, and suspension repairs are reasonably priced. However, rust repairs (especially sills) are among the few areas where costs can spike if problems are left unresolved.

What’s the most common problem with the Mazda MX-5?

Across generations, the most commonly reported MX-5 issues include:

Of these, sill rust is usually the most expensive if ignored. This is your sign to get your Mazda serviced soon!

MX-5 sill repairs can range from affordable to expensive, depending entirely on how early corrosion is caught. If you suspect sill rust, a professional inspection is the best first step. Acting early keeps costs down and helps your MX-5 stay enjoyable for years to come.

 to split the cost of Mazda MX5 sill repair into interest-free repayments today.

How much does it cost to repair a Mazda MX5 sill?

A coolant leak in a Mercedes should never be ignored. Even a small leak can lead to overheating and engine damage, and, if left untreated, to costly repairs.

The average Mercedes coolant leak repair cost ranges from £90 to £900, depending on which engine part needs to be replaced. 

In this article, we break down the differences between Mercedes repair costs, the causes behind them, and how quickly repairs can be completed, helping you act early and keep costs under control.

How much is a Mercedes coolant leak repair cost?

The cost of repairing a coolant leak on a Mercedes in the UK typically ranges from £90 to £900, depending on the source of the leak and the Mercedes model.

Minor issues at the lower end of the cost spectrum, such as a loose hose or a cracked expansion tank, are relatively affordable. 

However, leaks involving the radiator, thermostat housing, or water pump can significantly increase repair costs due to parts and labour.

On average, early diagnosis keeps costs at the lower end of the scale, while delayed repairs often result in higher bills. You can also use 

 to split the fee into interest-free repayments.

A £900 price tag is shocking, but the good news is that coolant leaks are not always expensive to fix, especially if caught early. Small leaks caused by worn hoses or faulty seals are often quick and inexpensive repairs.

However, coolant leaks become costly when:

Mercedes vehicles use high-quality but complex cooling systems, so labour costs can increase if multiple components must be removed to access the leak.

Common Mercedes coolant leak repair costs by component

Prices vary by model, what needs to be repaired, the extent of damage, and whether genuine Mercedes parts are used.

Here are typical UK repair costs for common Mercedes coolant leak sources in 2026:

How long does a coolant leak repair take?

Repair time depends on the source of the leak and vehicle layout. Your garage will confirm timings after a pressure test and inspection.

Mercedes coolant leaks are often caused by ageing components exposed to constant heat and pressure. Over time, plastic parts can become brittle, and rubber hoses may weaken or crack.

What is the most common cause of a coolant leak?

The most common cause of coolant leaks in Mercedes vehicles is cracked plastic components, particularly expansion tanks and thermostat housings.

Mercedes engines run hot by design, which accelerates wear on plastic cooling parts. Once cracks form, coolant loss can escalate quickly. Even a slow leak should be inspected promptly.

Why am I losing coolant but not overheating?

It’s possible to lose coolant without immediate overheating, especially if the leak is slow. 

Modern Mercedes engines have sensors and cooling reserves that can temporarily compensate for minor losses.

However, coolant levels can drop suddenly, leading to overheating without warning. Regularly topping up coolant is not a solution. The leak should be repaired as soon as possible.

Which Mercedes models are most prone to coolant leaks?

Models with high-mileage petrol engines or older diesel variants are particularly susceptible due to ageing plastic components.

Can you drive a Mercedes with a coolant leak?

Driving with a coolant leak is not recommended. 

While short journeys may be possible, continued driving increases the risk of overheating and severe engine damage.

If you must drive, keep journeys short, monitor temperature warnings, and stop immediately if the engine overheats.

Is a coolant leak an MOT failure on a Mercedes?

Yes, a coolant leak can cause an MOT failure if fluid is visibly leaking or dripping. 

Likewise, excessive leaks, overheating warnings, or engine-related warning lights may also result in failure.

Keep an eye on these symptoms, as even minor leaks should be repaired before an MOT test.

Alastair Shephard

Content Writer

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