How much does it cost to repair a car's chassis system?

In the UK, a car chassis system repair can cost anywhere from £250 to over £2,500 for a complete overhaul.

A car’s chassis is the main structural frame that supports the vehicle’s body, engine, suspension, and most other key components. The chassis system also includes control over handling and stability.

Because of this, damage to the chassis can compromise performance and safety, making early repair vital to avoid costly issues. Here’s everything you need to know.

How much does it cost to fix a chassis?

Car chassis repair costs can be hard to pin down, as they really vary depending on the type of damage and car make.

Also note that the chassis is the car’s structural frame, while the chassis system includes the frame plus other components affecting handling and stability.

Minimal frame straightening can start from £250 to £500, while extensive structural repairs or full frame replacements can exceed £2,000, particularly on luxury or high-performance vehicles.

You should also factor in rates for labour and specialised equipment or parts.

Here are car chassis system repair cost estimates for 2026.

Using car repair finance can help spread the chassis system repair cost into interest-free repayments, removing strain from your wallet.

What causes chassis damage?

Chassis damage can occur for numerous reasons, including:

• Road accidents or collisions

• Hitting kerbs or large potholes

• Rust or corrosion over time

• Improper towing or overloading the vehicle

Remember that damage to the chassis system can also affect suspension, steering, and brake components, not just the frame itself, potentially impacting vehicle handling and safety.

How to tell if a chassis is damaged?

Warning signs of chassis system issues affect how you drive. Always get your car inspected if you start hearing unusual noises or see cracks!

Common chassis damage symptoms include:

• Uneven tyre wear

• Vehicle pulling to one side

• Strange noises from the suspension

• Visible bends, cracks, or rust on the frame

• Difficulty steering or poor handling

Can potholes damage the chassis?

Yes. Striking a deep or high-speed pothole can bend or crack the chassis and affect the entire chassis system.

Even minor impacts over time can weaken the frame, particularly if combined with worn suspension components.

What speed causes chassis frame damage?

Chassis damage is more likely at higher speeds, as the impact force increases with velocity.

However, even slow collisions into kerbs or road debris can create dents or stress points that worsen over time. Always drive at the recommended speed limit for a safe journey.

How long does it take to repair a chassis?

The length of chassis repair usually depends on the severity.

Using the repair costs given in the table above, you can expect your chassis repair to last:

• Minor straightening: 1 to 2 hours

• Moderate structural repair: 4 to 8 hours

• Full chassis replacement: 1 to 3 days

Pro Tip: Extra time may be needed for paint curing or additional suspension adjustments. Ask your garage for a specific estimate!

Why are car body repairs so expensive?

Chassis repairs (also sometimes called body repairs) are costly because they can affect large areas of the car and often require complex parts and experience.

Key reasons behind chassis repair costs include:

• Labour is intensive and requires specialised skills

• Modern cars have complex frames with electronics and sensors

• High-quality materials are needed to maintain safety and integrity

• Additional work, such as suspension alignment or panel replacement, adds to costs

Can you drive with a damaged chassis?

No, where possible, you should avoid driving with a damaged chassis.

A compromised chassis can affect handling, braking, and safety, potentially leading to unsafe driving and a collision.

Even minor damage should be assessed by a professional before driving.

Does insurance cover chassis damage?

Yes and no. Comprehensive insurance may cover damage to the chassis from accidents or vandalism. Third-party policies usually do not.

Always check your policy before booking repairs, as claiming may require paying the excess, which may be more than the repair (depending on the severity of the damage).

Will insurance cover a rusted frame?

Rust-induced chassis damage is generally considered wear and tear and is rarely covered by standard insurance policies.

Preventive maintenance and early attention to rust spots are essential to avoid expensive replacements!

The bottom line

Unfortunately, a car chassis system repair cost can be high, especially for severe damage or rust. However, don’t put this payment off. Acting quickly protects your vehicle’s structural integrity and ensures safety on the road!

Split the cost with Bumper

Keep your car’s structure intact. A car repair loan can split the cost of chassis repairs into interest-free repayments.

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