Top 10 most expensive car parts to replace

New research has revealed the most expensive car parts to replace in 2023, with the engine – the heart of a car – topping the chart.

Electronic car part remanufacturer, Actronics Ltd, conducted the study of the average cost of replacing new car parts for the top five most frequently driven car models in the UK – the Vauxhall Astra, Volkswagen Golf, Vauxhall Corsa, Ford Focus, and Ford Fiesta.

With an average cost of £2,685 an engine replacement took top spot, following closely in second place by the gearbox, averaging around £1,072.

Airbags were in third place, with an average cost of £1,045.99, while the average cost of all the car parts featured in the Top 10 was £787.80.

Next on the list was the Engine Control Unit (ECU) typically costing on average £932.51. The ECU is a specialised electronic component that requires precise engineering and manufacturing. The complexity of its design and the advanced technology involved contribute to its cost.

Moving down the list, next is the sat nav/stereo system, with an average cost of around £639.10 for replacement. Then there is the catalytic converter, which costs an average of £351.67 to replace.

In seventh place is the radiator, with an average cost of around £344.80 for replacement. The fuel pump, shock absorber and ignition coil bottom out the list costing £322.68, £307.40 and £176.80 respectively to replace.

“The cost of car parts is becoming increasingly expensive, putting a strain on many people’s budgets,” said a Actronics spokesperson.

“In some cases, the cost of repairing a car can be more than the value of the car itself.

“We believe that refurbishing car parts is a viable option for many people.

“Remanufactured car parts are often just as good as new parts, and they can save you a significant amount of money.”