Step-by-step
Document the problem
Gather the service/repair invoice, note what was supposed to be done, and document what went wrong.
Get independent assessment
Have another mechanic assess the work and provide a written report on what was done wrong.
Complain to the garage
Write to the garage explaining the issue and requesting remedy or refund.
Check trade body membership
If they are a member of a trade body (Motor Ombudsman), use their dispute process.
Send letter before claim
If unresolved, send formal letter before claim with amount sought.
File your claim
File via Money Claim Online for repair costs plus any consequential losses.
Understanding Vehicle Repair Disputes
Vehicle repairs must be carried out with reasonable care and skill. If a garage fails to meet this standard, you can claim compensation.
Common scenarios:
- MOT or repair not carried out properly
- Damage caused during servicing
- Unnecessary repairs charged for
- Parts not replaced as claimed
Your rights:
- Repairs done with reasonable care and skill
- Repairs done in reasonable time
- Price as agreed (or reasonable if not quoted)
Evidence You Need
Essential evidence:
- Service agreement or booking details
- Itemised invoice showing what was charged
- Independent mechanic assessment
- Photos of issues
Helpful evidence:
- Previous service records
- The faulty parts (if available)
- MOT history showing previous passes
- Correspondence with garage
Tips:
- Ask to keep replaced parts
- Photograph any damage immediately
- Get written quotes for corrective work
What You Can Claim
Typical claim value: £50 - £5,000
You can claim:
- Cost to fix faulty repairs
- Refund for work not done
- Damage caused during repair
- Consequential losses (e.g., breakdown recovery)
Note:
If faulty repairs caused an accident, personal injury claims are separate and may be larger than small claims limits.
MOT Disputes
MOT failure issues:
If your car failed an MOT and you believe items were wrongly failed, you can:
- Request a retest at the same station
- Take it to another MOT station for assessment
- Appeal to DVSA within 14 working days
MOT pass issues:
If your car passed but had issues that should have failed, and this caused loss (breakdown, further damage), you can claim against the testing station.
DVSA complaints:
DVSA can investigate MOT testing standards but does not award compensation - that requires court action.
Frequently asked questions
Should I pay if I disagree with the work done?
You should pay for any work properly done but can dispute charges for faulty or unnecessary work. Not paying anything may result in the garage retaining your vehicle (they have a "lien" until paid). Consider paying under protest in writing.
The garage damaged my car during repair - what can I do?
The garage is responsible for damage caused by their negligence. Document the damage, complain immediately, and get an independent assessment of the damage. Claim the repair cost plus any diminished value.
How do I prove work was not done?
Get an independent mechanic to inspect and confirm the work was not completed as invoiced. Old parts left in place, condition of components, or continued faults all help prove work was not done.
Can I claim if my car broke down after a service?
If the breakdown was caused by negligent servicing (e.g., oil cap left off, parts not secured), yes. You need to prove the link between their work and the breakdown. An independent assessment helps establish this.
What is the Motor Ombudsman?
The Motor Ombudsman is a dispute resolution service for participating garages. If your garage is a member, you can use their free ADR process before going to court. Check membership at themotorombudsman.org.
This guide provides general information about UK small claims court procedures and is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. CourtPilot is not a law firm and is not regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. The law may have changed since this guide was last updated. For advice specific to your situation, please consult a qualified solicitor or seek help from Citizens Advice.