Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Joseph Law | Author

Alastair Shephard

Content Writer

Alastair Shephard | Author

Isobel Coughlan

Isobel Coughlan | Author

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 

 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.

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. 

 are fairly commonplace, and usually only take 

 The time taken to repair the exhaust can vary based on the complexity of the repair.

If your car is louder than usual or you smell exhaust fumes while driving, you likely have an exhaust problem, such as a hole or broken joint. This is common in older cars due to exposure to road water and salt.

exhaust parts are cheap and readily available

, many garages are usually equipped to undertake this work and a specialist is usually not required.

Most garages would be able to complete a full service in a 

 Engine servicing times don’t differ much from garage to garage.

Though not always a repair, this essential task helps prolong your engine's life, maintain resale value, and more.

Read more on the benefits of car servicing 

Wheel bearings wear out from regular driving and poor road conditions, as they help wheels spin smoothly relative to the suspension.

Head gaskets are fairly labour-intensive to change. Allow 4-7 days for this work to be completed. Knowing how long it takes to fix a head gasket can help you plan ahead while your car is in the garage.

Head gaskets are crucial for keeping fluids separate and containing combustion pressure. When they fail, they may

prices to expect on a head gasket replacement

Typical failed cambelt repair times take 

Cambelts are vital for synchronising the crankshaft and valves. A broken cambelt not only prevents the engine from running but can also cause significant damage.

 for a variable valve timing fault time. 

Most modern petrol engines use variable valve timing systems like 

, VVT, or VTEC to adjust valve openings based on engine load and speed.

It would be unlikely to have a fault with a VTEC system on a Honda engine, BMW Vanos systems and others require routine maintenance. 

Related Reading: BMW Vanos Replacement Costs

More FAQs about repair times for UK vehicles

Here are some final frequently asked questions about how long UK car repairs take.

The type of car you drive affects repair time, as some cars are more complex with more components.

This is especially important when dealing with engine components such as 

Smaller, simpler engines are quicker to disassemble than complex or luxury ones, especially if space is tight. Parts availability can also cause delays, especially for older or less common cars.

After an accident, your insurance company may take your car for assessment, which could result in a write-off, depending on the damage and the car's value.

Repairs might be quicker, but it depends on the repair centre's demand and the time of year.

How long do car repairs take after an accident?

After a major accident with airbag deployment and significant paint damage, 

Paintwork is often the most expensive and time-consuming part of accident repair

taking much longer than replacing mechanical components. 

Front-end damage is generally easier to fix, though modern cars have complex impact systems that require a thorough inspection. 

Rear damage, especially to quarter panels, usually demands more skilled and time-consuming repairs due to the solid body structure.

Do garages charge to look at your car for brake problems or strange noises? 

, including brake and suspension checks, often as a complimentary service. If a garage doesn’t provide this, your car might wait until other jobs are done. 

For a better understanding of what to listen out for if your car is making a noise, check out our guide 

Do garages charge to look at your car for bodywork repairs? 

Choosing a garage that specialises in crash damage or bodywork ensures your car gets the expert care it needs. Opting for an insurance-approved garage is even better, as they often offer free inspections after an accident. 

Average time for car repair - Conclusion 

Hopefully, this article has helped you understand the common car repair times and when to contact your garage for an update. Understanding these aspects can help you manage repair times and ensure your vehicle stays in top condition. Safe driving!

Find a reputable repairer and split the cost into 

interest-fee car repair monthly payments with Bumper.

 Available at 1000s of partners across the UK.

How Long Do Car Repairs Take?

Wie erkennt man, ob eine Autoreparatur zu lange dauert?

The average cost of EGR valve replacement in the UK is £260.

As a busy car owner, you want to save time and money on maintenance. The EGR valve is small but vital, helping reduce emissions and improve engine efficiency. Over time, it can wear out or fail.

This article covers the signs of a failing EGR valve, replacement costs, factors that affect those costs, and simple tips to keep this vital part in good working condition.

The average cost to replace an EGR valve in the UK sits between

Keep in mind these averages don’t apply to every make or model, so always check for your car. Compare dealers and independents to save, but dealers guarantee genuine parts.

We’ll break the common costs down below.

Average costs to replace an EGR valve by car make

Here’s a rough guide to EGR valve replacement costs for popular UK car makes.

Remember, these figures are estimates and can vary depending on the factors mentioned above.

High replacement costs can leave you worried. Bumper's 

 can help you split the costs into interest-free monthly payments.

EGR valve replacement costs for notable models

Here’s a look at EGR valve replacement costs for some of the UK’s most popular car models from the table above.

Average costs to replace an EGR valve by location

Location is also a significant factor in EGR valve prices. In addition to make and model, you need to consider labour prices in your area.

Cleaning vs Replacing: What’s the Cost Difference?

Cleaning your EGR valve is often a more cost-effective option than replacing it, but it’s not always a long-term solution.

A professional EGR clean in the UK typically costs 

, depending on your car and the garage. By comparison, replacing an EGR valve can cost 

Regular cleaning as part of maintenance can delay costly replacements and keep your engine running efficiently. However, if the valve is severely worn or damaged, replacement is typically the only viable option.

What is an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve?

The EGR valve recirculates exhaust gases into the engine to cut emissions and improve efficiency. 

Over time, carbon buildup or wear can cause it to clog or fail, hurting performance and raising emissions, which may mean it needs replacing.

How long does an EGR valve replacement take?

Replacing an EGR valve usually takes one to three hours, depending on your car’s make, model, and parts availability.

For a precise estimate, ask your mechanic for a personalised time frame.

Factors affecting EGR valve replacement costs

Several factors affect how much it will cost to replace your vehicle’s EGR valve. Here’s a quick overview:

Signs that your EGR valve may need replacing

If you notice any of these signs, it might be time to replace your EGR valve:

Will a car pass an MOT with a faulty EGR valve?

No. If your EGR valve is faulty, your vehicle is highly likely to fail the MOT altogether. 

During an emissions test, your vehicle undergoes strict checks to measure its environmental impact and road safety. The EGR valve helps cut harmful emissions by recycling exhaust gases. If it fails, excess nitrogen oxide (NOx) escapes, raising pollution and health risks.

How to maintain your EGR valve and avoid unnecessary costs

Proper care of your EGR valve can extend its lifespan and prevent costly repairs. Key maintenance steps can help you avoid unnecessary expenses.

Regular engine maintenance, including oil changes and filter replacements, is crucial. This helps prevent EGR system issues and enhances overall vehicle performance.

Regularly inspecting and cleaning your EGR valve during service appointments can save money in the long run by maintaining performance and reducing failure risk.

Addressing issues with related components (like vacuum hoses, gaskets, and sensors) along with cleaning the EGR valve can prevent damage and costly repairs.

Monitor engine performance regularly to catch issues early. 

If you notice rough idling or increased fuel consumption, have a professional mechanic check it promptly. Proactive care can prevent bigger problems.

If an EGR valve replacement feels pricey, try these tips to save money. 

If you’re confident, you can replace the valve yourself to cut labour costs, just be sure to follow safety steps and your repair manual. This isn’t recommended for most drivers.

It’s also smart to compare prices from different repair shops or online retailers to find the best deal on parts and labour. Another option is to use Bumper’s 0% interest financing to spread repair costs into easy monthly payments.

Keep an eye out for discounts and promotions at repair shops that can lower your bill. 

Lastly, consider reliable aftermarket EGR valves for potential savings, but make sure they are compatible with your vehicle.

That’s a wrap on EGR valve replacement costs. This valve may not be on most drivers’ minds, but it’s essential for keeping your car healthy.

Regular maintenance, shopping around for the best prices, and considering aftermarket alternatives can all help you save money while keeping your car running smoothly.

And don’t forget to keep the valve clean!

Whether you want to clean or replace your EGR valve, you can trust 

ith Bumper, 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. 

Advice

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)

What To Do If Your Engine Is Overheating

8 easy tips for spring cleaning your car