Your suspension coil spring has visible corrosion or surface rust. This is common in the UK due to salt and wet conditions. Minor surface corrosion is a minor advisory; deep rust affecting spring strength is more serious.
Use our free MOT checker to check this advisory on your vehicle.
Check Your MOT HistoryQuick answer
Surface corrosion on coil springs is minor and cosmetic. Deep rust can weaken structural strength. Monitor within 6 months; replace if severely corroded.
Surface rust (orange/brown discoloration)
Minor advisory. Cosmetic. Can be cleaned and treated. Not urgent.
Deep corrosion (pitting, cracks visible)
Weakens spring strength. Failure risk. Replace within 1–2 months before complete failure.
DVSA distinguishes between cosmetic rust and structural damage. If they note "not affecting operation," it's surface only. If they flag it after repeated inspections, deeper damage may be developing.
Repair: Surface rust cleaned and treated with rust inhibitor. Lasts 6–12 months before re-corrosion.
Replace: Deep corrosion or cracks = full replacement required (usually both springs on same axle together to maintain balance).
Surface rust treatment: £80–£150
Single coil spring: £120–£250
Front pair + labour: £300–£450
Rear pair + labour: £250–£400
Independent garages 20–30% cheaper. Always replace springs in pairs on the same axle for handling stability.
Monitor within 3–6 months
Surface corrosion is slow-progressing. Check again before next MOT. If worsening, move to replacement.
Use our MOT checker to see your vehicle's current advisory status and any recent test failures.
Check MOT HistoryLast reviewed: July 2026 · MOT data sourced from DVSA · Editorial Policy