Annabelle Clarke

PR Manager

Annabelle Clarke | Author

Eduardo Rodrigues

Content Writer

Claudia Tuñón

Isobel Coughlan

Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Alastair Shephard

Shock absorbers play a crucial role in keeping your car safe and comfortable on the road, with the average replacement cost being £379. If your vehicle needs new ones, getting them replaced promptly is crucial to avoid more significant issues down the line.

In this guide, we’ll break down the shock absorber replacement cost in the UK, explain what shock absorbers do, and answer common questions so you feel confident before heading to a garage.

Continue reading to gain a clear understanding of the costs and what to expect from a shock absorber replacement.

How much does a shock absorber replacement cost?

The average cost of replacing shock absorbers in the UK is £379.

While costs generally range from £150 to £500, a full set typically averages £416 for the front pair and £321 for the rear.

The price varies greatly due to different car makes and models. If you need all four replaced, you also need to consider the labour cost from mechanics. You can use 

 services to split these costs into interest-free repayments.

A key factor that can affect the price of a shock absorber replacement is the manufacturer of your car. Here’s a quick overview of costs per common car brand.

Shock absorber replacement cost by UK region

The cost of replacing shock absorbers can vary across the UK, depending on location and garage rates. 

Here’s a breakdown of average prices in different cities. These figures include both parts and labour, and actual costs may vary depending on your vehicle and chosen garage.

In the UK, labour costs for replacing shock absorbers typically range from £60 to £120 per axle, depending on your garage and vehicle type. Naturally, straightforward jobs are quicker and cheaper.

How long does a shock absorber replacement take?

On average, garages take 1.5 to 4 hours to replace shock absorbers.

However, the time it takes for mechanics to replace shocks varies between car makes and models. Keep this average in mind when planning your repair.

Do I have to replace all four shock absorbers at once?

Typically, the front and rear shock absorbers are replaced together as this helps maintain reliable handling and a consistent response on both sides of the vehicle.

At the very least, they should be replaced in pairs, i.e the front shock absorbers and rear shocks.

Shock absorbers are an important part of your vehicle's suspension system. 

Cars have four shock absorbers — one per each wheel. They help reduce the amount of vibration and shock transmitted from the road to the car's body, improving vehicle stability, comfort, and safety.

In addition, shock absorbers help protect other suspension components from wear and tear caused by rough roads, which can help keep annual service costs down.

The life expectancy of shock absorbers is at least 4 to 5 years or 50,000 miles.

However, it depends on the road conditions. If you drive on smooth roads in generally good conditions, the lifespan of shock absorbers can extend to longer than ten years. 

On the flip side, if you’re driving on rough, uneven tracks filled with potholes, your shock absorber's lifespan will significantly reduce to a few years.

What happens during a shock absorber replacement?

During a shock absorber replacement, a mechanic removes the worn shocks and inspects the surrounding suspension components. New shock absorbers are then fitted, ensuring they are properly aligned and secure. 

The mechanic may suggest additional fixes if they notice any other problems during the repair. They will always consult you before making other changes, though.

What are the signs of worn shock absorbers?

Over time, shock absorbers can wear out and become less effective, leading to an uncomfortable ride.

Symptoms of worn shock absorbers include:

Moreover, if you notice visible damage such as oil leakage or rust on the shock absorber, it's crucial to replace it immediately to ensure your safety.

What noise does a broken shock absorber make?

Broken shock absorbers are known for making unusual noises. If one is broken, you might hear a clunking sound knocking under your car. That’s the sound of metal components hitting each other as the car bumps over an uneven surface.

Like any car part, to maintain your shock absorbers, it is essential to inspect them regularly.

Alongside checks, you should also try to drive smoothly to reduce strain. Where possible, avoid rough roads and ensure your vehicle receives an annual service to catch any issues early. 

If replacement is needed, always fit shocks in pairs to maintain your suspension's balance and safety. And don’t be scared to ask your garage or dealership for advice!

Can I drive my car with a broken shock absorber?

Driving with a broken shock absorber can be dangerous. 

It’s vital to understand that shock absorbers are an essential part of the suspension system. Their main purpose is to absorb shocks from the road while driving.

A broken shock absorber will cause discomfort while riding and lead to loss of control over the vehicle in certain situations. Therefore, driving your car with a broken shock absorber is not recommended, as it could put you and other drivers at risk.

Yes, but only with the proper knowledge and tools. Generally, if you’re unsure and asking this question, it’s best to get a professional to replace them.

Only attempt to change your shock absorbers yourself if you are competent and confident in your ability to carry out mechanical repairs on your car.

Considering the importance of shock absorbers for a car’s health, it doesn’t make sense to risk it and try a DIY job replacing shock absorbers. Instead, we recommend taking your car to your nearest mechanic to carry out the job safely.

Yes. Replacing your shock absorbers is always recommended, but especially if your car struggles on bumps, corners feel unstable, or you often drive on rough roads. Doing so improves ride quality and keeps steering safe and responsive.

What else could be causing problems if your shock absorber isn’t broken?

If your vehicle is handling poorly or the ride feels off, but your shock absorbers are fine, other components could be the cause. 

Thankfully, replacing a car’s shock absorbers is simpler than it might seem. 

To get the most value, try to replace all of them together or at least one pair at a time. Comparing quotes from a few garages can help you get a clear idea of the shock absorber replacement cost and find the best price.

Bumper knows a large repair bill on your car is the last thing you want to spend your money on, but essential parts such as shocks are crucial for you and your family’s safety. 

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.

Shock Absorber Replacement Cost Guide

Alles, was Sie über den Austausch von Stoßdämpfern wissen müssen

The 1.5 million potholes on UK's roads cost motorists £1 billion a year in repairs. 

Drivers reported 1.5 million potholes on roads to 51 UK authorities between April 2018 and June 2021; this figure would undoubtedly be far higher if potholes on major highways and motorways were also reported. So we started to wonder: how tall would the hypothetical skyscraper be if all of the reported potholes in the UK were placed on top of one another? 

According to data gathered by the RAC from 190 of the 207 local highway authorities in Britain, three out of four local authorities (or 75%) have switched to a "risk-based approach" to repairing potholes. This means that councils will take into account the type of road, the amount of traffic the road carries, and the mix of road users in addition to the size, width, and depth of a pothole. All municipal highway administrations are accountable for the upkeep of their individual road networks under the terms of the Road Traffic Act of 1980. Surprisingly, there isn't a nationwide legal standard that specifies what constitutes a pothole. 

A pessimist would say that a local government short on funds might just change the categorization of a pothole to avoid filling and repairing the damaged road. 69% of local transportation authorities only look into potholes that are 40 mm or deeper. 

The hypothetical tower reaches 11,250 metres, which is roughly the cruising altitude of a civil aircraft (10,000–12,000 metres), comfortably taller than Mount Everest (8,849 metres), deeper than the Pacific Ocean (11,022 metres), and nearly 100 times taller than the London Eye. If even one-quarter of the reported potholes on local roads were, for example, 30mm deep, this would mean that over two-thirds of local highway, authorities would not investigate further (13,500 metres). 

Given that the majority of local traffic authorities in the UK only investigate potholes that are at least 40mm deep, the cumulative depth of the 1.5 million reported potholes on local roads is 60,000 metres. This sum will get you halfway there. The Kármán Line is an invisible line at 100,000 metres above sea level when the atmosphere becomes too thin for conventional aeroplanes. 

According to earlier data, 32% of UK drivers experience damage from hitting a pothole, which forces them to replace at least one tyre every year. Given that the average cost of replacing four tyres is £397, or £99.25 per tyre, owners of the 40.8 million licenced vehicles in the UK must pay a yearly replacement cost of £1,127,352,960 due to pothole damage.

Tips for reducing damage caused by potholes 

Always leave a two-second gap between you and the car in front, as they may brake or swerve to avoid a pothole if it suddenly appears. This way you will have a clear view of the road and more time to react. 

If possible, slow down and steer away from a pothole 

Sometimes it's impossible to completely dodge a pothole. If you can see one coming, attempt to slowly approach it without braking abruptly and gently veer away. 

The expected lifespan of a car tyre is 10 years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first. Regularly examining your tyres, especially before a lengthy trip, should help you spot any issues in the earliest stages. The centre three quarters of every tire's tread must measure at least 1.6 millimetres across in order for it to comply with current UK driving regulations. 

Split the cost of tyres, repairs, and services into interest-free monthly payments with Bumper, and choose from 1000s of dependable service partners. 

 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.

How tall is the combined depth of the potholes on UK roads?

The team at Stratstone JLR Nottingham have combined exceptional customer service and flexible payment options to be crowned Dealership of the Month for January 2023. 

This award is a fantastic achievement for the team at Stratstone JLR Nottingham and is a testament to their hard work and dedication. The team have consistently gone above and beyond to deliver an outstanding level of customer service, which has resulted in them achieving great customer feedback. 

The award was presented by Bumper’s Chris Booth, who said: "I am delighted to present Stratstone JLR Nottingham with this award in recognition of their exceptional performance in January. The team at Stratstone have consistently delivered strong results and they are a great example of the efficiency and profitability allowing customers to split their bill into monthly payments can bring”. 

Celebrating Success: Stratstone JLR Nottingham Wins Dealership of the Month Award 

Modern cars are smart systems packed with tech to monitor and manage their performance.

An OBD port is a tool that lets you plug into your car's brain 

) and download data or view it live—a handy tool for mechanics and drivers to keep things running smoothly. 

The OBD port is a universal plug for all cars, but the software isn't always as standardised.

Today, we're discussing everything you need to know about these ports, including what they're used for and how you can test them.

An OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) port is a universal plug mechanics can use to run tests and diagnostics on your car’s computer. It’s simply the spot where they connect their equipment.

This is done to know the status of the car’s sub-systems, and it can even help you detect faults or maintenance problems before they arise. 

Will an OBD scanner tell me what’s wrong with my car?

Yes, an OBD scanner will tell you what’s wrong with your car. But it’s not always that simple.

OBD readings provide fault codes showing failed tests, but they don’t pinpoint exact issues or repairs.

Mechanics or savvy drivers interpret these codes to diagnose problems. If unsure, consult a professional mechanic.

An OBD port is used for plenty of reasons. Like most connections between computers, data can be transferred in both directions in an OBD port. This allows more than just the reading of stored error codes.

Here are three main ways an OBD port is used: 

Modern cars track data like engine temperature, RPM, and throttle position. With the right tools, mechanics and owners can access this info. 

Even a basic OBD reader shows details like coolant temperature, helping diagnose issues—such as ruling out a faulty throttle sensor.

When a fault develops, the ECU can detect the abnormality via the sensors above. In most cases, something like a misfire caused by faulty 

When a problem occurs, even intermittently, the ECU stores the details in its memory. Mechanics can access this as a code to help diagnose the issue.

Because the ECU defines the car and engine so much, many parameters can be modified to suit the driver or upgrade the vehicle.

With the relevant software, changes can be made, such as increasing the engine’s performance - also known as a remap - and tweaking the way the lights operate to be more convenient.

There are some consumer-grade options for doing this, such as 

To test your OBD port, check for damaged pins or cable breaks. You can also try another scan tool or connect your device to another car's OBD port.

If these tests prove fruitless, you might need to work with a garage. Their professional equipment will be able to tell why the port is not responding as it should and advise on how best to fix it

Only clear OBD error codes once the vehicle is repaired or road-safe, and consider noting the codes for future reference.

What is the difference between OBD1 and OBD2? 

The beauty of OBD systems is their standardised ports, allowing any car to connect with the same cable. This is much like USB works for phones and laptops.

Car tech was limited when OBD1 was introduced in 1981, so many features we now take for granted weren't yet standard. 

OBD2 was introduced in 1996 and included many more features. This new standard was developed to be future-proof, unlike OBD1, and is still used today. 

OBD2 was introduced in 1996, but not all manufacturers adopted it immediately. Many makers only introduced it due to legislation. 

The list below will help identify whether your car has an OBD: 

Remember, your car may have an OBD2 plug, even if made before these dates. 

You will usually find your OBD port under the dashboard, rather than the engine bay. 

Some cars will also hide it behind a plastic lid, which will be labelled “OBD.’ The best way to check your specific car is to read the user manual. 

Failing that, a quick search online will almost always help. 

Whether you need to read error messages, learn more about your engine, or satisfy curiosity, there are plenty of options for every budget.

These typically plug in via a cable and display basic error messages and system parameters such as engine temp, RPM, throttle position, ignition timing, and more.

They can't typically change any parameters, though, and are difficult to use to gather data whilst on the move.

For around £50-£100, you can get a more complex OBD scanner. 

 can change your car's lighting and mirrors, allowing auto-dipping mirrors when reversing. They can also display ECU error messages. 

These tools display error messages and often include diagnostic libraries, guiding you through troubleshooting with physical and digital tests. 

Many even connect to your phone or laptop via Bluetooth.

At the high end, professional scanners are designed for garages and mechanics, costing hundreds of pounds and offering access to manufacturer-specific software for customisation, like BMW and VW tools.

Due to the complexity of these systems, they are often used in conjunction with a laptop computer and sometimes need a certain amount of training to operate effectively. 

For more information on OBD tools, Tom’s Guide did a tremendous run-down 

Can you drive with an OBD tool plugged in?

Yes, you can drive with an OBD tool plugged in. This allows you to see information as your car drives. You can even clear OBD codes while driving.

However, you should use wireless devices like Bluetooth that connect to a smartphone to avoid cables in the footwell, as these are a safety hazard. 

Always have a passenger monitor the device, and never use a mobile device while driving.

What is the best OBD2 scanner for beginners?

If you're new to OBD scanners, start with a basic, affordable tool to learn about your car's OBD port before deciding whether to upgrade or consult a mechanic.

No. Though OBD2 is a universal standard, there is a chance that the scanner isn’t compatible with your vehicle. 

Always check whether your chosen scanner is suitable for your car before purchasing. 

Can you clear codes with an OBD2 scanner? 

Yes. An OBD2 scanner allows you to check diagnostic codes and clear internal codes when not needed. 

OBD ports are crucial for emergencies and monitoring your car's health.

Knowing the type and location of your OBD port can help you access vital information quickly, saving you time and money down the road.

, you can split repair costs into monthly payments with no fees and find local garages for professional OBD assistance.

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

What is an OBD Port?

Was ist ein OBD-Anschluss?

For most of us petrol and diesel vehicles are all we’ve ever known. So, it’s no surprise that when faced with switching to a completely new fuel type it can feel a bit intimidating. 

Is the charging infrastructure in place? How much do repairs cost, and where can I find a reliable mechanic? To keep you in the know, we answer eight common electric vehicles (EV) questions. 

The first consideration when looking for an EV is the charging range. Some electrics travel further than others on a single charge, and this naturally increases the price. You’ll also need to consider if you want to go for a fully electric or a hybrid, which allows for both charging and refuelling. 

The answer to this comes down to the charging points in your area. If you decide to go fully electric, a home charging point is incredibly valuable. If this isn’t possible, make sure there’s a good number in your area or near your workplace. If you’re worried about the lack of access to a charger, a hybrid model might be the better option. 

If purchasing an electric vehicle is out of your price range, an alternative solution is leasing. An increasingly popular option for motorists, paying monthly allows those on lower incomes to afford the transition to electric. Often maintenance packages are available to help with repairs. Plus, if the vehicle is less than three years old you won’t need to worry about taking the vehicle for an MOT. 

A growing concern amongst drivers is the cost of the battery and at prices around £5,000, it’s no surprise this is a worry for some. If a replacement is required, unfortunately, there’s not much that can be done. However, this shouldn’t put you off. EVs generally come with a battery warranty for around 8 years or 100,000 miles. Most manufacturers guarantee the battery will last for 5 years. 

Charging at home is a far cheaper alternative to using public chargers, so it makes sense to have one installed. A dedicated smart charger is a much safer option than a three-pin plug as they have many built-in safety features and the smart, app-controlled nature of most chargers takes advantage of off-peak electricity tariffs. To get started all you need is a private parking space, such as a driveway or garage. A good charger supplier such as 

 makes the process easy with qualified installers. 

If you’re renting, it’s important to get permission from the landlord first. To help cover the cost, renters and landlords may be entitled to up to £350 from the 

Office for Zero Emissions Vehicles (OZEV)

To charge your electric vehicle you first need to find the charging port. This will look similar to a fuel cap but if you’re struggling, the location can be found in your owner’s manual. 

There are four main charging speeds you need to know about: slow, fast, rapid and ultra-rapid. Rapid and ultra-rapid are commonly found on motorways and the slower options are usually home chargers that make use of overnight charging. 

For mid-journey charging, it’s important to point out, that you will need to supply your own charging cable, so always keep one in the car. Plug your cable into the charging point, public chargers will require a payment, and wait for your vehicle to gain charge. 

If you move to a new property without a charger, it’s possible to uninstall the charger and take it with you. But it’s worth considering that the charging point could increase the property’s value and attract potential buyers. 

6. How do I recharge my EV away from home? 

If you’re planning a long journey, we recommend looking for charging points on your route first. You can check this on apps such as PlugShare, Zap-Map, and Charge Point. You’ll also be able to choose which has the best charging costs and plan your journey around your vehicle’s range. 

Most supermarkets and service stations have chargers, as well as some public car parks, restaurants, workplaces and hotels, but their charging speeds and prices vary so it’s always best to check first.

7. Will my usual mechanic be able to repair my EV? 

As more drivers make the switch to electric the number of garages that can repair them increases so it should be easy to keep on top of your vehicle maintenance. It’s possible your usual mechanic will be able to help to depend on the repair, but it’s always best to check with them before making a booking. If they can’t, you could book in with a specialist who should have the parts and know-how for any repairs you need. 

There are some ways EVs can even save you money. Currently, they’re exempt from road tax, however this is set to change in April 2025, when drivers will be required to pay the standard rate (currently £165 per year). In addition to this, energy supplies often have cheaper tariffs for EV charging and some public car parks offer free spaces for electric cars. For drivers who need to use on-street parking, some councils offer reduced or free permits.

Answers to 8 electric vehicle questions you probably won't have thought of 

A romantic getaway is what many people dream of for Valentine’s Day. It’s an opportunity to spend some time with your loved one, and romantic road trips in the UK can be an ideal way to visit lots of unique locations and make special memories. 

If you’re looking for ideas for Valentine’s drive, we’ve come up with a selection of locations that can offer a truly unforgettable experience for just two people. From the northern reaches of the Scottish Highlands to the south coast of England, whether you want to get back to nature or enjoy the finer things in life, there is something for everyone. 

If you want to head out on a road trip that’s not too challenging then the Cotswolds is a fantastic place to start. They’re easily accessible from lots of major cities and have a great combination of offerings. 

If you’re the sort of couple who want to indulge in some luxury then there are plenty of spa hotels or high-end restaurants to choose from. For a really luxurious weekend away try Lucknam Park, which has a choice of two restaurants and an award-winning spa. However, if you want to switch off from the hustle and bustle of everyday life there are equally quiet spots where you can do that. To keep your creature comfort, why not try a shepherd's hut at the Fish Hotel?

There’s no shortage of romantic villages in the Cotswolds, stretching from the quaint locations of Stow-on-the-Wold, Bourton-on-the-Water or Chipping Norton. Tie these locations with a drive on the B4425 and stop off at Upper and Lower Slaughter villages along the way. 

Alternatively, there’s the Windrush Valley, which runs from Bourton-on-the-Water to Burford and offers stunning scenery as you drive the road that follows the River Windrush. From here you can join the A429, which runs from Stroud to Cirencester and offers breathtaking views of the Cotswold Hills, and stop off at the charming villages of Painswick and Slaughters along the way. 

For those located in the south of England, a romantic getaway to the Highlands might seem like a bit too much of a reach. Although it can be a long drive to get there - or alternatively jump on a train overnight - once you’ve arrived in Scotland it’s easy to see a huge amount in a short space of time. However, sometimes it’s still not enough! 

If a romantic road trip away from it all is what you’re looking for, there’s little else like the Scottish Highlands to get lost in. The vast open spaces are unlike any other rural landscape in Britain. 

The route up the west coast and onto the Isle of Skye called the ‘Road to the Isles’ is something everyone should put on their bucket list. Stop at romantic spots like Glenfinnan, Mallaig, and Kyle of Lochalsh, and enjoy the stunning views of the coast and the hills. 

On your way, you’ll likely take the A83 and this is equally stunning. This scenic route takes in the beauty of Argyll and the Trossachs National Park, including the stunning Loch Lomond and the village of Inveraray. You can drive the famous winding road called the Rest and be Thankful, visit Inveraray Castle or the Falls of Dochart. 

The A9 might not sound like the most romantic place to take your partner this Valentine’s Day but this scenic route really takes in the beauty of the Scottish Highlands, including the Cairngorms National Park and the city of Inverness. There are breathtaking views if you stop off in Aviemore where you can follow the train line - or even have dinner on board. If you head all the way to the coast there are unmissable views from the beach in Nairn, where you’ll be able to see across the sea and the cliffs of the land beyond on a clear day. 

The Jurassic Coast is a 95-mile stretch of coastline in the south of England. It’s known for its stunning views, and geological wonders, but its proximity to the sea and extensive history make for some extremely romantic locations. 

In fact, the coastline is bursting with romantic spots to visit, from Durdle Door to Lulworth Cove and Studland Beach. Durdle Door’s natural arch is one of the most recognizable features of the Jurassic Coast and a popular spot for picnics and walks - ideal for a romantic stroll along the beach and enjoying the stunning views.

As you continue west, the B317 begins at Weymouth and offers spectacular views out across Chesil Beach as you approach Bridport. From here you can continue following the Jurassic Coast on to Charmouth Beach and Lyme Regis. Charmouth is a long sandy beach, known as a popular spot for fossil hunting.

When it comes to romantic locations in England, not a lot compares to the Lake District. Come rain or shine there is a historic pub to curl up by the fire and enjoy a drink or make your own memories on remote walks. 

If you love history, the Lake District is home to Dove Cottage where poet William Wordsworth used to live. The house, located in Grasmere, is now a museum dedicated to his life. However, if stories are more your thing, the home of Beatrix Potter is also now a museum. You can take a romantic walk through the gardens of the farmhouse where the author used to live. 

As well as history and scenery, the Lake District is also packed with fantastic driving roads. Some of its most famous include Honister Pass, which runs from Keswich to Borrowdale, the challenging Hardknott Pass, from Eskdale to Duddon Valley, and Kirkstone Pass, from Ambleside to Patterdale.

It wouldn’t be a visit to the Lake District without driving to some of the lakes though. The second largest is Ullswater, and you can drive the Ullswater Way that follows the shore of the lake. Buttermere is to the west of Ullswater and is surrounded by rolling hills. Here you can hire a boat and take in some of the views from the water. The largest though is Windermere. This lake is in the heart of the town where you can stop for a romantic meal or take a trip on the water.

Rebecca Chaplin is a motoring journalist and owner of 

. She’s written about cars and the best places to drive them for nearly 10 years.

Top 4 most romantic road trips in the UK 

In many ways, the electronic control unit can be considered the most important component in a modern car, through it all primary functions operate. Below we take a look at exactly what it does, and what issues it can cause.

The acronym ECU refers to a car's Engine Control Unit, there are many other control units in modern cars such as: 

As the name suggests, the ECU is a device that controls and monitors various parameters and systems in a car. The first ECUs were basic microprocessors that only monitored basic engine parameters such as 

With the advent of things such as electric windows and doors, reversing cameras and parking sensors, modern cars have multiple control units alongside the ECU, such as Body control modules, lighting modules and more. 

All of these fulfil the same function within their respective system, to control and display data about the car’s status, either changing parameters or displaying issues to the driver.

Modern ECUs control or read almost everything that happens in and around the engine. There is a plethora of sensors that report back and parameters, of which the ECU will regulate, monitor and take action. 

For instance, the ECU uses data from the engine on RPM, Ignition timing, fuel injection rates and exhaust gas composition, to detect whether the combustion is happening exactly as it should. 

In the instance of any faults, such as a misfire, the ECU will detect and make changes accordingly, whether that is to alter the ignition timing or display an error message to the driver. 

Other control units such as body-control units monitor the status of things such as bulbs, windows, door locks, wiper motors and more. Again allowing the car to display an error message to the driver. 

Typically a modern car will have around 4 different ECUs; including the engine control unit, body control unit, ABS control unit and alarm/immobiliser control unit. 

But luxury cars will often have even more than this, with some vehicles having a separate unit to control things such as infotainment systems, active aerodynamics and more. 

The most common cause of ECU damage, especially in the UK, is water damage. A lot of manufacturers mount the ECU near the passenger or driver footwell, as this is convenient for all the electrical systems whilst being protected from the elements. 

However, the elements can sometimes get into this area, as things such as car sunroofs, windows and windscreens can leak. The water can then run down into the footwell and damage the ECU. 

Another common cause of ECU damage is faulty or badly modified electrical systems, such as shorts and wiring issues. Jump starting incorrectly can also cause problems, as high electrical loads can be sent through the ECU. 

Some cars can suffer if the battery is left to drain to empty too often or for too long, damaging the ECU’s internal battery system. 

One of the main jobs the ECU does is control the fueling and ignition of the engine. On 