Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Alastair Shephard

Content Writer

Isobel Coughlan

Financing is a great way to get a new, reliable car without shelling out tens of thousands of pounds upfront. 

However, one slight issue may occur when the car gets damaged or 

. One of the worst ways this can happen is a blown engine. If this happens, staying calm, assessing the damage, and planning your next steps is critical. 

In this article, we’ll provide some help and advice on what to do if your engine blows while your 

. No more Googling ‘car on finance engine blown.’ You’ll find everything you need to know here. 

Your rights when a motor blows up on a financed car

You are permitted to give back a financed car,

, as long as you’ve paid over 50% of the total finance cost. 

Unfortunately, in order to give back a car early, it will need to be in reasonable condition. If the finance company takes back a car and the engine is damaged, they are very likely to seek costs from you. 

So, if you’re thinking ‘my engine blew and I still owe money,’ jump to your three main options below. 

What Next? 3 options for a financed car engine failure

If you have a blown engine on a financed car, there are a few different ways to minimise the loss if your engine has blown, but you can’t afford to repair it outright. You can: 

Let’s go over these options in more detail below. 

Before deciding on the options below, ensure you’re cool, calm, and collected. A financed car with a blown engine is stressful, and it’s vital not to make rash decisions to protect your finances. 

Take a minute to assess the situation. Call a friend or family member for a second opinion if needed. 

 may be the first thing that comes to mind, there are far superior options available, especially with interest rates at the current levels. 

Car repair loans with 0% interest are much friendlier to your finances. They allow you to address the problem without dropping your credit score. 

Bumper offers interest-free monthly car repair loans

. The money goes straight to the garage, and you can split the cost into multiple manageable payments, which can be a big help if you need to repair your car. 

2. Sell the car to a mechanic or for parts 

If your car on finance needs a new engine, there are loads of companies and individuals that look for broken cars to buy. They have the space and know-how to fix them. If the car is not worth fixing, they may dismantle it and sell it for parts. 

This is often a more feasible option if your car is not very old, but it would still be worth a bit if it was in working condition. 

Various online marketplaces allow bidding. This method would probably yield the highest price. Alternatively, some companies buy cars in any condition — including engine failure on a financed car. These are often less hassle as they deal with the paperwork and admin for you. 

If you have the space, time, and knowledge to safely dismantle your car, you could make more than you would sell by stripping it down and selling the bits. 

Be warned, though, that this is not an easy or quick process, and you have to be prepared to arrange for the sale of parts and remove them yourself. Unless the car is a particularly rare example, you may be left with half a vehicle on your drive for months! 

If your car's finance engine has blown, the last thing most want to do is strip their car. So, consider this option carefully and ensure you have the time and resources before starting. 

 has any problems, you should contact your lender immediately. They need to know about the car’s value changes and your ability to make payments. Often, they have strategies and procedures to help in these situations. 

Can I trade in a financed car with a blown engine?

It’s rarely possible to trade in a financed car with a blown engine. But it’s not impossible. Sometimes, dealerships and lenders will accept trades. However, they’ll first assess the car’s value and damage. 

Note that a trade may not cover your outstanding finance balance. In this case, you’ll have to pay the outstanding difference. 

You’ll also have to be prepared for a lower trade-in value since the engine failure will have devalued your car. 

To determine whether your car is worth fixing, it's necessary to check how much the car would be worth if it was in working order. You need to get multiple quotes to fix the car's issue. 

Another consideration is how much it would cost to replace the car with one that is like for like, as this may be more than what your vehicle could be worth due to availability and market trends. 

Financially it's probably worth fixing a blown engine as long as the parts are available from a breaker or dismantler, as a new engine will often be more expensive than the value of the car. 

How to get insurance to cover a blown motor

Whether or not your insurance covers a blown motor depends on your personal policy. Before you contact your 

, review your policy to see if it covers mechanical breakdown coverage. If this isn’t included, you won’t be able to claim for the problem. 

However, some insurers allow add-on policies for these situations. Contact your provider for more information, but make sure you have your policy details on hand before calling. 

Like any repair, the cost will vary greatly depending on the car's age, make and model, and where you are located in the country. 

See the list of prices below to give you an idea of how much it’s likely to cost: 

Cost to replace an engine with a new one: 

Cost to replace an engine with a secondhand or refurbished one: 

How much can you get for a car with a blown engine? 

Wondering what to do with a car with a blown engine? 

As mentioned, there are a few options for selling a car with a blown engine, but how much you can get will depend on the car's condition, age, and desirability. 

Generally speaking, most people who will fix your broken car to sell themselves will want to pay the sale price of an equivalent working car, minus the cost of replacing the engine, the above prices would be a useful indicator of this. 

If your car is in good condition and was initially expensive, you will have a much better chance of getting a premium price for your broken car. 

What option is best when my engine is blown?

Because everyone's situation is different, it’s advisable to gather all the information you need before you make an informed decision. So we advise you to do the following: 

Car on finance engine blown - The takeaway

Dealing with a financed car and a blown engine is challenging, but several solutions are at your fingertips. From assessing the damage and repairing parts to working with your lender and insurance, you can find an answer that meets your needs. Ensure you are honest and communicate clearly throughout the process for the best results and a positive outcome. 

Split the cost of repairs into interest-free monthly repayments and 

 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.

Car Engine Blown While On Finance

¿Qué hacer si el motor de tu coche financiado se funde?

Coil spring replacements cost an average of £220 in the UK, as a coil spring is an essential component of your car's suspension system. 

It's responsible for absorbing shocks and maintaining the correct ride height. A broken spring on a car can cause significant trouble.

In this blog, we will discuss the factors that affect coil spring replacement costs and provide tips on how to save money on this essential maintenance task. 

How much does it cost to replace a coil spring?

The cost of a coil spring replacement in the UK is between £180 and £300.

The cost of replacing the front coil springs is around £220, while it's a little cheaper at £180 for the rear coil springs. 

Different garages and dealerships charge different rates, so it's worth shopping around to find the best price.

 can also help you split the cost into interest-free repayments.

Coil spring repair costs vary significantly depending on the car manufacturer. 

Generally, premium and luxury brands usually have higher parts and labour charges due to more complex suspension systems and pricier components. 

Here are some average costs for popular UK brands:

Where you live in the UK can also affect the cost of coil spring repairs. 

Prices tend to be higher in London and the South East, reflecting higher labour rates and operating costs for garages. Northern regions often see more competitive pricing. 

How long does it take to repair a broken coil spring?

Front coil spring replacements can take between one and three hours. Rear coil spring replacements are shorter and usually take between one and two hours. 

In general, the length of a coil spring repair depends on the spring being repaired, its complexity, and the mechanic's experience. 

Do coil springs need to be repaired together?

Coil springs must be replaced as pairs per axel. This means the front two together and the back two together. You don’t have to do the front and back pairs at the same time, though. 

Factors affecting coil spring replacement cost

When it comes to replacing a coil spring in your vehicle, several factors can impact the overall cost of the job. 

There are several reasons why coil spring parts might break or fail over time, such as wear and tear, corrosion, impact damage, and manufacturing defects.

One major cause is age and wear. As the coil spring is constantly compressed and expanded during normal driving conditions, it can experience metal fatigue that eventually leads to a break.

Another factor that can contribute to coil spring failure is corrosion.

When exposed to moisture, salt, and other corrosive elements on the roadways, the metal in the coil spring may weaken over time. This makes it more prone to breaking when subjected to sudden stresses or impacts from potholes or other hazards on the road. 

A corroded coil spring costs the same as a standard broken coil replacement.

Impact damage alone is another common reason why coil springs might break unexpectedly. 

A strong jolt from hitting a pothole or running over debris in the road can put sudden and excessive force on the spring. This can result in significant damage or even complete failure of one or more coils within the spring. 

Although rare, manufacturing defects may also lead to premature failure of a car's coil springs. 

Poorly made products can have weak spots that aren't immediately apparent but could worsen as they're used under typical driving conditions.

Common symptoms indicating that a coil spring might need a replacement include:

Yes, coil springs weaken over time, often due to constant compression, corrosion from UK road salt, and general wear. Weak springs lower ride height, affect handling, and may lead to uneven tyre wear.

Check your coil springs monthly or if you notice any issues by looking for cracks, corrosion, or bends. 

If you suspect damage, have a professional mechanic inspect them rather than tamper with them, as diagnosing coil spring problems can be tricky without expert knowledge.

Driving with a broken coil spring is unsafe as it affects your vehicle’s handling, braking, and overall safety. It can also damage other suspension parts or tyres, leading to costlier repairs and increased risk for you and other road users.

Yes, a broken or significantly damaged coil spring is considered an MOT failure in the UK. It is essential to address any coil spring issues before your vehicle's MOT test to ensure it passes and remains roadworthy. 

How do I know if my coil springs have gone?

You can spot failing coil springs if your car sits unevenly, rides lower than normal, bounces excessively over bumps, or feels unstable while driving.

But with all potential car problems, listen and look for unusual handling changes. If it feels like something’s off, it’s always best to get it checked out to prevent further damage and costly repairs.

Yes, many mobile mechanics in the UK can replace a coil spring, provided they have the right tools and safe working space. Complex jobs may still require a garage visit.

How to save money on coil spring replacement

Coil spring replacement can be an expensive and time-consuming task, but there are ways to save money without sacrificing the quality or safety of your vehicle.

That wraps up the coil spring cost UK guide. These steps help keep your car in good condition and reduce long-term costs.

As always, if you suspect you have a broken coil spring, visit a professional for expert advice and don’t tamper with your vehicle if you don’t have experience with cars. Better safe than sorry!

, 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 Replacement Coil Spring Cost? UK Guide

¿Cuánto cuesta cambiar los amortiguadores?

Was kostet der Austausch einer Fahrwerksfeder?

Whether you're rushing to work or on the school run, noticing a dent in your car door is never a fun experience. 

Perhaps you're wondering whether the door dent is worth fixing. The answer isn't always so simple. Typically, fixing a car door dent depends on several factors, including the size, location, and overall condition of your vehicle. 

In this article, we'll discuss the potential costs of repairing doors, whether they are worth fixing, and the general options available. Scroll down and get in the know now. 

Your budget and your car's current condition and age

Depending on the severity, it might be worthwhile to have the damage repaired, especially if the repair costs are fair and the dent is not too big or has caused issues with expensive parts such as 

On the other hand, it might be more economical to just live with the dent. Or replace the car door totally if the dent is too big or the cost of the repair is too high. 

How much does it cost to fix a dented car door?

A dented car door can be repaired for a variety of prices. 

You might be able to get a little ding fixed for as low as £50. However, the price could be significantly greater if the dent is large or situated in a challenging place. 

Repairing a dent can sometimes cost nearly as much as replacing the entire car door. This is especially true if the dent is significant or if other damage, such as scratches or dents, is present. 

But more about the cost of a car door dent below. 

On average, the cost to remove a car dent per panel is

The price to remove a car dent will vary depending on a number of variables. These include: 

Car dents come in all shapes and sizes, as do their repair costs. Here’s a list of ballpark average costs to repair various dents: 

Split the cost of repairs into monthly payments at 1000s of trusted garages and dealerships with 

Does a dent decrease your car’s value? 

This can have a substantial effect on the resale value. A 

 repair firm can estimate the cost of repairs and the amount that each damage reduces the car's worth. 

Due to how they affect a car's overall appeal to potential purchasers, dents can reduce its value and cause sellers to undervalue it when they sell it. Small dings and dents can mount up, significantly impacting the car's evaluation rating. 

Therefore, if dents result in a large amount of depreciation, it is crucial to think about having them rectified before trying to sell your car. 

Difference between dent repairs and paintless dent repairs 

There are two main options for repairing dents in car doors:

. Understanding the difference between these two options can help you make an informed decision about how to repair your car door. 

Traditional dent repair involves sanding, filling, and repainting the affected area. 

This method is typically more time-consuming and costly than paintless dent repair. But, it may be necessary if the dent is too large or the paint has been damaged. 

The cost of traditional dent repair will depend on the size and location of the dent, as well as the cost of labour and materials. 

On the other hand, paintless dent repair (PDR) is a less invasive option. 

This involves using specialised tools to massage the dent out of the car door without damaging the paint. It is generally less expensive than traditional dent repair, and it can often be completed in a shorter amount of time. 

The cost of paintless dent repair will depend on the size and location of the dent and the skill level of the technician performing the repair. 

PDR generally targets small areas of damage, allowing your car to return to its original dent-free state without needing significant repairs or part replacements. Traditional dent repair may be necessary if the dent is too large or if the paint has been damaged. Ultimately, the best option for you will depend on the dent's size and location, budget, and priorities.

Starting prices for paintless dent removal are about 

Before beginning, your professional dent removal specialist will be able to provide you with a price so you are informed of the charges. 

The cost of paintless dent removal per panel will increase if your car has multiple damaged locations. You should expect to pay an additional 

Factors that affect paintless dent repair costs: 

How much does paintless dent removal cost for hail damage? 

initial charge of about £45 plus roughly £20 for any further dents 

in the same panel that could have occurred. The final price is affected by the state, type of car, dent's location, size, and 

. So, you can drive home on the same day. 

However, note that significant dents or dents in awkward locations will take longer to repair. Small dings and scratches only take a couple of hours. 

Does a dented car door need to be replaced? 

Your dented car door doesn’t need to be replaced if the dents are reasonably small and can be fixed using either traditional or paintless dent repair methods. You may even be able to do it yourself with a dent puller and a hairdryer. 

It is advised to take the dent to an auto body repair company if it is too big for a DIY fix. 

A qualified technician can reverse smaller dents in the shop using suction cups and a slide hammer. If the damage is more extensive and has compromised the vehicle's structure, a full door replacement may be advised. 

Cosmetic car insurance packages cover car dents and dings. These can be added to your existing car 

 policy or taken out as separate packages. Some drivers opt for these to fix cosmetic damage without affecting their no-claims bonus. 

If you don’t have insurance for superficial damage, you’ll have to pay the repairs out of your own pocket. 

Check your existing policy details or reach out to your insurance provider if you’re unsure whether you’re covered. 

Car door dents aren’t any driver’s favourite subject, but they’re usually harmless and can be an easy fix. In some cases, you don’t even need to rush to get them fixed, so you can rest assured that you won’t have an expensive bill in your immediate future. 

However, if you need to fix a car door dent, 

 can help remove the strain off your wallet. 

Split the cost of repairs into interest-free monthly instalments at thousands of service partners across the country with 

Price Guide For Repairing Dents In Doors

Ausbeulen von Dellen in Autotüren – eine Preisübersicht

Whenever your car is off the road, either through an accident or wear and tear, it can be frustrating not having access to your vehicle while it’s being repaired. 

But how long should you expect to wait for repairs, and what do you do if the mechanic is taking longer than expected? 

In this article, we’ll give some guidelines on how long various car repairs take, how long a mechanic can legally keep your car, and what to do if the repair is taking too long.

Car repairs can take anywhere from 10 minutes to 6 weeks

, depending on the car, the problem and the garage’s workload. 

In rare cases, they can take even longer. It’s advisable to check with the garage before dropping your car off.

more than a week to complete suspension or servicing work

more than four weeks to finish major engine repairs

, it might be a good idea to express your concerns to the garage in writing.

Almost all car repairs can usually be completed within 2-3 weeks, even major engine work.

How long can a mechanic legally keep your car to fix UK? 

There’s no legal timeframe or limit for keeping your car.

Instead, drivers should look at the average repair times and use these as a guide. Most repairs should be done within two to three weeks. This follows the Consumer Rights Act 2015, as it states garages must complete repairs within a ‘reasonable’ time.

Sometimes, repairs might take longer, and your mechanic should inform you why and how long they expect to take. This may be because of complexity or difficult-to-source parts.

How do you know if a mechanic is taking too long with car repairs? 

longer than a week after the estimated time,

 it’s time to check in with the garage for an update.

Professional garages will be upfront with the reasons why. Types of hold-ups can include a delay in parts arriving, staff illness, or unforeseen problems. 

If your mechanic repeatedly cannot give a status update or reasonable reason as to why it’s taking so long, look into your rights with the 

For more information, you can read our guide

Lastly, here’s a quick list of factors that may affect your car repair time.

As a garage client and the car’s owner, you have certain rights. Here are the main ones:

What to do if the mechanic didn't fix your problem.

Here are ten common repairs and their average times. These times will vary based on garage demand, force of impact and type of car. Use these as a rough estimate!

The average time it takes to repair or replace headlights is 

Most headlight assemblies are readily available in the UK and can be delivered within a few days.

Ultimately, how long to repair headlights depends on the type of vehicle and the availability of parts. For most cars, replacement headlights are easy to obtain from the manufacturer, though they can be pricey. 

How much do headlight replacement bulbs cost?

depending on the level of painting needed. 

Bumpers are designed to be replaced when damaged, but suppliers often don't stock them in the correct paint colour, and older vehicles may have paint fade issues.

Therefore, most bumpers are purchased in primer and colour-matched by a body shop, which extends the lead time.

 for most minor and moderate suspension damage. 

The severity of the impact affects repair time. Minor bumps at low speeds usually only require replacing suspension arms, ball joints, and bearings, which are typically available off the shelf.

If the impact damages the subframe or chassis, extensive repairs may be needed. Often, bent subframes or chassis are considered uneconomical to fix and may be 

How long to fix the suspension damage may also depend on the mechanic’s workload. Don’t forget this factor when estimating the time.

3-4 days and fitted in a matter of minutes 

by a garage with the right equipment. So, alloy wheel damage repair time is one of the faster ones.

Potholes or debris in the road can easily damage alloy wheels, 9 times out of 10 a wheel with anything more than curbing is not worth fixing. 

The good news is new alloy wheels are readily available both new and on the used market. 

Advice

Car Engine Blown While On Finance

How Much Does A Replacement Coil Spring Cost? UK Guide

Price Guide For Repairing Dents In Doors

How Long Do Car Repairs Take?

How Much Is An EGR Valve Replacement Cost?

UK Wing Mirror Replacement Cost Guide

How Much Does a Brake Pipe Replacement Cost?

How Much Does It Cost To Recharge Your Car’s Air Conditioning? (2026)