Article Summary
U.K. collision repair prices rose 7% year-over-year to an average of £267.16, driven by inflation, higher labor and parts costs, and supply chain challenges. Despite increased costs, drivers are prioritizing repair quality and transparency over low prices, prompting garages to focus on trust and service rather than discounting.
- Average collision repair quotes climbed to £267.16 (C$467) between August 2024 and July 2025, up 7% year-over-year
- Clutch replacement quotes rose 7% to £687.60 (C$1,202), while full-service mechanical work increased nearly 4%
- Half of all cars booked for repair were 16 years or older, showing drivers are repairing aging vehicles rather than replacing them
- 57% of drivers prioritize convenient local location over price, while only 29% consider low prices important when selecting a garage
- High-value repair approvals now take an average of 66 hours, up from faster approval rates, as customers evaluate options more carefully
Toronto, Ontario -- Average collision repair prices rose seven percent in the U.K. over the past year, a new report has found.
The study, from car repair marketplace FixMyCar, shows the average quoted repair price climbed to £267.16 (C$467) between August 2024 and July 2025, up from £249.46 (C$436) the previous year.
Mechanical work rates rose by a similar amount during the period. Clutch replacement quotes rose seven percent, increasing £50 (C$87) to an average of £687.60 (C$1,202). Full-service mechanical work rates rose nearly four percent.
The report attributes the increase to inflation, higher labour and parts costs and persistent supply chain strain across the U.K. aftermarket. These forces are working together in tandem to drive changes in driver behaviour.
With the cost of living still elevated, many drivers are holding on to aging vehicles and delaying non-essential maintenance. Half of all cars booked through FixMyCar were 16 years or older—a sign that motorists are choosing to repair rather than replace.
That caution is also changing how quickly repairs are approved. The number of quotes accepted within 24 hours fell 2.4 percent year over year, with high-value jobs now taking an average of 66 hours before approval.
FixMyCar chief executive officer Amanda Webb said the data reflect an industry adapting under pressure. “While we tackle rising operational costs and inflation, as well as supply chain delays and continued workforce shortages, the bigger picture provides evidence that this is just another storm to be weathered,” she said in the report.
The Making Tracks: The Auto Repair Report 2025 suggests garages can counter cost pressures by focusing on quality and trust rather than price. Shops that promote premium parts, clear warranties and transparent quoting are better positioned to charge sustainable rates and build customer loyalty, FixMyCar said—a strategy that could help end the industry’s long-running “race to the bottom.”
The company’s research found that less than a third of drivers—29 percent—consider low prices important when choosing a garage. Instead, 57 percent said a convenient local location mattered most, 47 percent wanted clear, transparent pricing and work, and 31 percent valued good reviews.
The data underline a shift toward trust and value over discounting. Even as costs rise, FixMyCar said drivers are taking more time to evaluate their options and prioritizing overall service quality rather than chasing the cheapest deal.
The report concludes that garages focusing on transparency, professional standards and long-term relationships are best placed to thrive as price sensitivity gives way to reputation and reliability.
