How to Claim for Vehicle Repair Disputes
Guide to claiming against garages for faulty repairs, unnecessary work, or damage caused during servicing.
Step-by-Step Guide
Document the problem
15 minsGather the service/repair invoice, note what was supposed to be done, and document what went wrong.
Tip: Keep the faulty parts if replaced - they are evidence.
Get independent assessment
45 minsHave another mechanic assess the work and provide a written report on what was done wrong.
Complain to the garage
10 minsWrite to the garage explaining the issue and requesting remedy or refund.
Check trade body membership
15 minsIf they are a member of a trade body (Motor Ombudsman), use their dispute process.
Send letter before claim
10 minsIf unresolved, send formal letter before claim with amount sought.
File your claim
15 minsFile via Money Claim Online for repair costs plus any consequential losses.
Need help with this process?
CourtPilot can generate these documents for you automatically.
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
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.
Legal Disclaimer
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.
Related Guides
Industry-Specific Guidance
We have detailed guides tailored for specific industries facing these types of disputes.
Ready to start your case?
CourtPilot guides you through every step of the small claims process with AI-powered assistance.