Can a Coil Spring Fail an MOT?
Yes. A coil spring can fail an MOT if it is fractured, seriously weakened or insecurely attached. The important distinction is the physical condition and security of the spring rather than simply whether it looks old, rusty or has lost some of its surface coating.
A fractured coil spring is particularly important because the failure may occur at the very end of the spring. The vehicle may still appear to sit almost normally and the broken piece can remain trapped inside the spring seat, making the defect much less obvious from outside the car.
Broken Coil
A fracture anywhere in the spring matters, including a small section broken from an upper or lower end coil.
Structural Deterioration
Heavy deterioration becomes important when the spring has lost enough strength or section to be considered seriously weakened.
Spring No Longer Located Correctly
A spring that cannot remain correctly retained or relocate into its intended running position can fail on security.
If only part of an end coil has fractured, the remaining spring may still support the vehicle close to its normal height. The spring therefore needs to be inspected along its full visible length and around both seating areas rather than judged from ride height alone.
Coil Spring MOT Result at a Glance
“Rusty spring” and “broken spring” are not interchangeable descriptions. The MOT decision depends on what has physically happened to the spring and whether it remains structurally sound and securely located.
| Spring condition | What it means | MOT concern | Workshop response |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light surface corrosion | Surface oxidation with no fracture or serious weakening confirmed | Condition must be assessed rather than failed because it simply looks rusty | Inspect and monitor |
| Coating damaged | Protective finish has deteriorated but spring structure remains sound | Possible future corrosion risk | Inspect carefully for deeper deterioration |
| End coil fractured | Part of the upper or lower coil has broken away | Major concern | Replace defective spring |
| Spring fractured through a main coil | Structural continuity of the spring has failed | Major concern | Replace defective spring |
| Spring seriously weakened | Deterioration has materially reduced spring integrity | Major concern | Replace spring |
| Spring insecurely attached | Spring is not properly retained at the chassis or axle | Major concern | Correct spring / seat / mounting fault |
| Spring does not relocate correctly | Spring moves from its intended seat and does not correctly return to normal running position | Security concern | Find why the spring cannot locate correctly |
| Fixings allow visible relative movement | Spring attachment security has become seriously compromised | Dangerous concern | Urgent repair before normal road use |
If a vehicle has failed, do not reduce the result to “spring failed MOT”. Find out whether the recorded defect is fracture, serious weakening, insecurity or another suspension fault. Those descriptions point towards different inspection and repair decisions.
Coil Spring MOT: Major vs Dangerous
A useful way to understand the result is to separate failure of the spring itself from a more severe loss of attachment security.
Spring Has Failed the Required Standard
This category includes a spring or spring component that is fractured or seriously weakened, and a spring that is insecurely attached to the chassis or axle.
- ! Fractured spring
- ! Broken end coil
- ! Seriously weakened spring
- ! Spring insecurely attached
Attachment Security Has Become Critical
The Dangerous threshold is more severe. Where spring fixings are loose to the extent that relative movement is visible, the defect is treated as Dangerous.
- ! Serious loss of spring attachment security
- ! Visible relative movement at loose fixing
- ! Immediate repair decision
- ! Normal road use should not continue
A fractured spring is serious and fails the MOT, but the defect category should follow the actual inspection finding. Keeping Major and Dangerous criteria separate makes the diagnosis more accurate and prevents unnecessary exaggeration.
Broken vs Seriously Weakened vs Insecure vs Incorrectly Located
These descriptions can sound similar to a driver, but they describe different mechanical conditions. Identifying which one is present makes the repair much more precise.
Spring Fracture
The spring material has physically fractured. The break may be obvious through a main coil or hidden close to an end coil.
Serious Loss of Strength
Corrosion or other deterioration has materially reduced the spring's structural integrity even if a complete fracture has not yet occurred.
Retention Problem
The spring is not being securely retained by the vehicle's intended suspension arrangement.
Seating Problem
The spring is displaced from the position intended by the spring seat, locator or isolator and may not correctly return to its normal running position.
| Finding | Look at next | Do not assume |
|---|---|---|
| Broken end coil | Spring seat, remaining coil and nearby tyre/component clearance | That ride height must be obviously low |
| Heavy corrosion | Actual section loss and structural weakening | That all visible rust equals failure |
| Spring displaced | Spring seat, locator, spring length and suspension assembly | That the spring alone caused the displacement |
| One corner low | Spring integrity, seating and suspension condition | That a shock absorber is automatically responsible |
| Metallic knock or twang | Spring ends, seats, top mount and nearby suspension joints | That the noise proves a broken spring |
Coil Spring Anatomy: What the Workshop Terms Mean
Understanding the basic terminology makes MOT defect descriptions and garage quotations much easier to interpret. The spring does not simply sit loose between two pieces of metal; its ends are located by a suspension arrangement designed to hold the spring in the correct position as the wheel moves.
The Load-Carrying Spring
The wound steel spring compresses and extends as suspension load changes. It supports vehicle weight while allowing controlled wheel movement.
Upper Spring Location
The upper end of the spring locates against an upper seat, platform or strut-related spring assembly depending on the suspension design.
Lower Spring Location
The lower spring seat supports and positions the lower coil. Dirt and moisture can collect around this area on some designs, making the lower end important during corrosion and fracture inspection.
Spring End
The final section of the spring is shaped to locate against its seat. A fracture here may remove only a short piece while leaving most of the spring apparently intact.
Rubber Spring Interface
Some suspension designs use a rubber pad or isolator between the spring and its seat to reduce noise, vibration and direct metal-to-metal contact.
Correct Spring Position
The seat shape, stop, recess or associated suspension hardware determines where the spring end should sit in normal operation.
Upper Seat vs Lower Seat vs Spring Isolator
These parts work together but they are not the same component. Correctly identifying which part has failed matters when the spring appears displaced, noisy or incorrectly located.
Upper Spring Seat
Supports and locates the upper end of the spring. On strut suspension this area may be closely associated with the upper spring plate, bearing and top-mount assembly.
Lower Spring Seat
Carries the lower spring end and normally provides a defined position for the end coil. Corrosion and trapped road debris can make this area particularly important during inspection.
Spring Isolator
A rubber or synthetic interface used on some vehicles. Damage can create noise or alter how the spring sits, but an isolator problem should not automatically be confused with a fractured spring.
This is one of the easiest coil-spring faults to underestimate. If the last part of an end coil fractures, the loose section may remain trapped in the spring cup. From a distance the spring can appear complete, so the mechanic should inspect the actual end of the remaining coil and compare its shape and termination with the opposite side where useful.
Do Not Diagnose a Coil Spring From Ride Height Alone
A dramatic spring failure is easy to understand: the spring breaks, the corner drops and the fault is obvious. Real workshop diagnosis is often less convenient.
A short end section can fracture while the remaining spring still carries almost the same static vehicle load. That means the car may not look noticeably lower. The driver may only report an occasional metallic noise, or there may be no obvious symptom at all.
1. Find Both Ends
Trace the spring to its upper and lower termination rather than inspecting only the easiest visible middle coils.
2. Inspect the Seats
Look for a loose broken section, corrosion debris, damaged isolator or an end coil sitting away from its intended location.
3. Check Clearance
Confirm a broken or displaced spring cannot contact the tyre, brake hose, ABS wiring or neighbouring suspension components.
4. Compare the Other Side
The opposite spring can help identify normal spring shape, seating and ride height, although both sides must still be judged on their own condition.
A clunk does not prove a broken spring, a low corner does not prove a spring failure and surface rust does not prove serious weakening. Follow the spring itself, locate both ends, inspect its seats and confirm the physical defect.
From MOT Result to the Actual Coil Spring Failure
Knowing that a coil spring can fail an MOT is only the starting point. The next stage is understanding why the spring failed, what symptoms different failures create and which neighbouring components should be inspected before deciding what needs replacing.
Understand the Load
Start with how the spring supports the vehicle and responds to braking, cornering, bumps and suspension travel.
Understand the Failure
Separate fatigue and corrosion fractures from seating problems, displacement and damage following a severe impact.
Match the Symptom
Use ride height, noise, handling and physical inspection to separate a spring fault from dampers, top mounts, drop links and other suspension components.
Spring function → spring construction → failure location → corrosion and fatigue → seating → symptoms → nearby-component risk → compare competing suspension faults → physically confirm the failed spring.
How a Coil Spring Supports the Vehicle
A coil spring supports vehicle weight while allowing the wheel to move vertically as road height changes. The spring compresses when load increases and extends again as the suspension unloads.
The spring does not control suspension movement by itself. It works with the shock absorber or strut, which slows the spring's movement and prevents repeated bouncing.
Supports Vehicle Weight
Carries the corner weight of the vehicle and helps establish normal ride height.
Allows Wheel Travel
Compresses and extends as the wheel follows bumps, dips and changing road surfaces.
Stores & Releases Energy
The damper controls how quickly that stored spring energy is released.
Spring Rate and Suspension Travel Explained
Spring rate describes how much force is required to compress the spring by a given amount. A higher-rate spring resists compression more strongly, while a lower-rate spring compresses more easily.
The spring rate, available suspension travel, vehicle weight and damper characteristics are designed to work together. Fitting the wrong spring can therefore affect ride height, suspension travel and handling even if the replacement physically fits.
Static Load
Vehicle weight compresses the spring to its normal running position.
Bump Compression
Road impacts add load and compress the spring further.
Rebound
The spring extends again as the wheel moves back towards normal position.
A low corner can point towards a spring fault, but tyre pressure, vehicle loading, incorrect spring specification and structural problems should also be considered before blaming the spring alone.
Linear vs Progressive Coil Springs
Not every coil spring has evenly spaced coils or the same wire characteristics from one end to the other. Some designs are intended to change effective stiffness as the spring compresses.
More Consistent Rate
A conventional linear spring is designed to increase load in a more consistent relationship with compression.
- ✓More uniform coil spacing is common.
- ✓Simple spring-rate behaviour.
- ✓Still vehicle-specific in length and specification.
Rate Changes Through Travel
A progressive design can use varying coil spacing, wire characteristics or geometry so the effective rate changes as the spring compresses.
- ✓Some coils may sit closer together by design.
- ✓Coil contact can be intentional in part of the travel.
- ✓Do not mistake design shape for deformation.
Compare the spring with the correct part specification or the opposite side where appropriate before deciding that unusual spacing proves structural distortion.
MacPherson Strut vs Separate Coil Spring Layout
Coil springs can be mounted around a suspension strut or separately from the shock absorber. The layout changes what needs to be removed, supported and inspected during repair.
MacPherson Strut Spring
The coil spring sits around the strut body between lower and upper spring seats.
- ✓Spring and damper form one assembly.
- ✓Upper seat sits close to top mount.
- ✓Spring compressor normally required for disassembly.
Separate Spring & Damper
The spring sits between the suspension arm or axle and the vehicle body while the shock absorber is mounted separately.
- ✓Spring seat may be part of arm, axle or body.
- ✓Damper may limit suspension droop.
- ✓Removal method differs significantly by design.
Why Upper and Lower Spring Seats Matter
The spring seats support the ends of the coil and keep the spring positioned correctly as suspension load changes.
A spring can be structurally sound yet still cause a problem if the seat is badly corroded, damaged or allows the spring to sit outside its intended location.
Upper Seat
Supports the upper coil and may be part of a strut top assembly or body-mounted spring pocket.
Lower Seat
Supports the lower spring end and often contains a shaped stop showing where the final coil should terminate.
Seat Condition
Corrosion, distortion and trapped debris can affect both spring location and diagnosis.
What Does a Coil Spring Isolator Do?
Some spring seats use a rubber or synthetic pad between the steel coil and its mounting surface. This helps reduce noise and direct metal-to-metal contact.
Noise Isolation
Reduces transmitted spring-seat noise.
Spring Location
Can help position the spring correctly in its seat.
Wear Item
Rubber can harden, split, move or deteriorate with age.
If the noise comes from spring-to-seat contact, inspect the spring, isolator and seat as separate components before choosing the repair.
How Road Loads Travel Through a Coil Spring
The spring experiences repeated changes in force whenever vehicle load shifts or the road wheel moves. These cycles contribute to long-term fatigue.
Static Vehicle Weight
The spring remains compressed even when the vehicle is parked.
Weight Transfer
Front springs often compress further as vehicle load transfers forwards.
Side-to-Side Load Transfer
Outside springs carry greater load while the body rolls.
Rapid Compression
Potholes and sharp bumps can create much higher short-duration loads.
Why Coil Springs Break
Coil springs normally fail through a combination of fatigue, corrosion and repeated load cycles rather than because of one simple cause.
1. Protective Layer Damages
Coating is chipped or deteriorates with age and road exposure.
2. Corrosion Begins
Steel is exposed to water, salt and road contamination.
3. Stress Concentrates
Repeated spring flexing loads the weakened area through many cycles.
4. Fatigue Fracture Occurs
A crack grows until part of the spring separates.
How Corrosion Leads to Coil Spring Fracture
Corrosion reduces effective spring material and can create a local stress concentration. Repeated compression then acts on a smaller or more irregular section of steel.
Surface Rust
Early oxidation does not automatically mean serious weakening.
Pitting
Local material loss can concentrate fatigue stress.
Section Loss
Severe corrosion can materially reduce spring strength.
Light oxidation and serious weakening are not the same condition. Look for loss of spring material, deep corrosion and cracking rather than failing the spring because the coating no longer looks new.
Why Damaged Spring Coating Matters
Coil springs normally have a protective finish designed to reduce corrosion. Stone impacts, age and repeated contact with road debris can expose bare steel.
Coating loss is not itself the same as spring failure, but it can mark the beginning of the corrosion process that eventually weakens the steel.
Can a Pothole Break a Coil Spring?
A severe pothole or kerb impact can apply a large short-duration load through the suspension. A healthy spring is designed to tolerate substantial road loads, but a spring already weakened by corrosion or fatigue may fracture during or soon after a heavy impact.
Spring Load Spike
Rapid wheel movement compresses the suspension strongly.
Existing Weakness
Corrosion or fatigue can make one area less able to withstand the load.
Other Impact Damage
Tyre, wheel, lower arm and alignment should also be considered after a severe strike.
Broken End Coil Hidden Inside the Spring Seat
One of the most easily missed spring failures occurs when only the last section of an end coil fractures. The broken piece can remain lying inside the spring cup or trapped against the isolator.
The remaining spring may still carry almost the same static load, so the vehicle can appear close to normal ride height even though the spring is physically fractured.
End Coil Corrodes
Moisture and road dirt often collect near the spring seat.
Short Section Breaks
Only part of the final coil may separate.
Piece Remains in Seat
The broken section can be partially hidden from normal view.
Ride Height Looks Normal
The remaining coil still supports much of the original vehicle load.
Do not simply look through the wheel and confirm that “a spring is present”. Identify where the final coil should end and inspect the seat for a loose broken section.
How a Coil Spring Becomes Incorrectly Seated
A coil spring must sit in the position intended by its upper and lower seats. Incorrect location can follow poor installation, damaged seats, damaged isolators, suspension disassembly or spring movement when the suspension reaches full droop.
Incorrect Installation
End coil is not aligned with the seat stop or locator.
Damaged Seat
Corrosion or distortion prevents correct spring location.
Excessive Droop Movement
Spring moves when unloaded and fails to relocate correctly.
What Is a Displaced Coil Spring?
A displaced spring has moved away from the location intended by the spring seat or mounting arrangement.
This may happen because the spring is broken, incorrectly fitted, the seat is damaged or the suspension allows the spring to become unseated when unloaded.
Re-seating a spring without identifying a damaged seat, wrong spring, broken coil or incorrect suspension assembly can leave the original security problem unresolved.
Can a Broken Coil Spring Make One Side Sit Lower?
Yes. If enough spring length is lost, the affected corner can sit lower than the opposite side.
The size of the height difference depends on where the spring fractured and how much of the coil is missing. A short broken end section may create very little visible change.
Large Fracture
Greater loss of spring length can produce obvious ride-height drop.
Small End-Coil Break
Ride height may remain deceptively close to normal.
Compare Correctly
Tyre pressure, loading and parking surface should be considered during comparison.
Knocking, Twanging or Rattling From a Broken Coil Spring
A fractured spring can produce metallic noises when the broken section moves against its seat or nearby suspension components.
Metallic Twang
Can occur as the spring rotates or shifts under changing load.
Clunk
Broken spring end or displaced coil can move abruptly against its seat.
Rattle
A loose broken section can move inside the spring seat over rough roads.
Top mounts, anti-roll-bar links, ball joints and bushes can all knock over bumps. Confirm the physical spring fracture before attributing the sound to the coil spring.
Can a Broken Coil Spring Damage a Tyre or Nearby Component?
Yes. Depending on the suspension design, a sharp broken spring end can move towards the tyre, brake hose, ABS wiring, strut body or other nearby components.
Tyre
Check sidewall and tread clearance throughout steering and suspension movement.
Brake Hose
Confirm no broken spring edge can rub or trap the flexible hose.
ABS Wiring
Inspect sensor wiring routed close to the spring or strut assembly.
Strut / Seat
Look for scraping, gouging or abnormal metal contact.
If a broken spring is contacting or threatening the tyre, do not continue normal driving while waiting for a convenient repair date.
Can a Broken Coil Spring Make the Car Pull or Handle Differently?
It can if the spring failure changes ride height, suspension geometry or load distribution significantly.
However, directional pull has many other causes including tyre pressure, tyre conicity, wheel alignment, brake drag and worn suspension joints, so the spring should be physically inspected rather than diagnosed from pulling alone.
Main Symptoms of a Broken Coil Spring
Metallic Twang or Clunk
Broken coil end moves against the spring seat or surrounding components.
One Corner Sits Low
More likely when a significant section of the spring has broken.
Visible Broken Coil
A fracture may be seen directly or found as a loose piece in the seat.
Changed Handling
Ride-height or load-distribution changes can affect vehicle behaviour.
Tyre / Component Contact
A displaced sharp spring end can interfere with nearby parts.
No Obvious Symptom
A short end-coil fracture can exist without a dramatic height change or noise.
Coil Spring vs Shock Absorber vs Top Mount vs Drop Link vs Lower Arm
Several suspension faults can create knocking, uneven behaviour or poor road feel. The strongest diagnosis comes from matching the symptom with a physical fault rather than replacing the most common part.
| Fault | Typical clues | Best confirmation |
|---|---|---|
| Broken coil spring | Metallic twang, low corner, loose broken section, possible tyre/contact risk | Trace spring through full visible length and both end coils |
| Shock absorber | Severe leakage, repeated bouncing, weak body control | Inspect damper condition and damping effectiveness |
| Top mount | Knock, steering noise, rough or binding strut rotation | Observe top mount and bearing during steering / suspension movement |
| Drop link | Light repetitive knock over smaller sharp bumps | Check link ball-joint play |
| Lower arm bush | Clunk under braking, vague steering, pulling, changing geometry | Load arm and observe bush movement |
| Ball joint | Suspension knock, steering looseness, wheel play | Observe internal joint movement |
Support Fault
Look for physical fracture, serious weakening or incorrect location.
Motion-Control Fault
Look for severe leakage or inadequate damping.
Noise / Articulation Fault
Look for unwanted joint or mounting movement.
Wheel-Location Fault
Look for excessive wheel-position change under load.
Suspension noise travels through the strut, subframe and body. Physically confirm the failed spring, joint, bush or mount before authorising replacement.
A Coil Spring Diagnosis Is More Than Looking for a Low Corner
A spring can fail visibly through a main coil, quietly through a hidden end coil, gradually through corrosion and fatigue or through a seating and security problem rather than fracture.
The next stage is to inspect the spring under workshop conditions: locate both ends, assess its seats and corrosion, confirm security as suspension position changes, check nearby tyre and component clearance and separate spring failure from damper, top-mount and other suspension faults.
Understand the spring design → trace both end coils → inspect protective coating and corrosion → confirm seating and security → check ride height and nearby clearance → compare competing suspension faults → physically confirm the fracture before repair.
Professional Coil Spring Diagnostic Workflow
A proper coil-spring diagnosis should confirm the spring itself, its seating and its surrounding components before parts are ordered. Ride height, noise and visible rust can all provide clues, but none of them proves a spring fault on its own.
The workshop sequence should be: symptom → ride-height check → full spring inspection → seating and security → corrosion assessment → surrounding-component clearance → opposite-side comparison → repair → recheck.
1. Confirm the Complaint
Record low ride height, metallic noise, recent pothole impact, tyre contact or the exact MOT defect wording.
2. Compare Ride Height
Check whether one corner or one side sits differently under comparable loading conditions.
3. Trace the Complete Spring
Follow the coil from upper termination to lower termination rather than inspecting only the middle turns.
4. Inspect Both Spring Seats
Check location, isolators, corrosion and any loose broken coil section.
5. Confirm Security
Check that the spring remains correctly located as suspension position changes.
6. Check Nearby Clearance
Inspect tyre, brake hose, ABS wiring, damper and other nearby components.
7. Inspect the Opposite Side
Compare spring shape, corrosion and age while still judging each side independently.
8. Recheck After Repair
Confirm correct seating, ride height, security and clearance before the vehicle returns to normal use.
A spring fracture should trigger inspection of the spring seat, isolator, damper or strut, top mount, tyre clearance and the opposite spring before the repair decision is finalised.
How MOT Testers Inspect Coil Springs
The coil spring is assessed for fracture, serious weakening and security. Inspection should also establish whether the spring remains correctly located as suspension position changes.
Spring Condition
Inspect the visible coil for fracture, serious deterioration and structural weakness.
Spring Security
Confirm the spring remains correctly retained by the suspension.
Correct Relocation
Check that the spring returns to its intended running position when the vehicle is lowered.
Why Jacking and Lowering Matters During Coil Spring Inspection
A spring can appear correctly located while the vehicle is standing but move away from its seat when the suspension reaches greater droop. The important question is whether it correctly relocates when the suspension returns to its normal running position.
Suspension Unloads
Spring compression reduces as the wheel hangs.
Spring Location Changes
Some designs allow movement without creating a fault.
Vehicle Is Lowered
The spring should return to the position intended for normal operation.
The key question is whether the spring is secure in normal operation and correctly relocates as the suspension returns to running position.
Inspect the Entire Coil, Not Just the Easy-to-See Middle
A quick glance through the wheel can miss one of the most common spring failures: a fracture close to an upper or lower end coil.
The inspection should trace the spring continuously from one end to the other wherever access allows.
Middle Coils
Check for obvious fracture, severe corrosion and deformation.
Upper End
Inspect the final coil where it terminates against the upper seat.
Lower End
Inspect the coil termination and the spring cup beneath it.
Loose Pieces
Look for short broken sections trapped inside the spring seat.
How to Check the Upper End Coil
The upper end can be difficult to inspect because the spring seat, body structure or top-mount assembly can obstruct the view.
Find the Termination
Confirm where the final coil should end.
Check the Seat
Inspect for distortion, corrosion and damaged isolator material.
Look for Fresh Fracture
A broken surface can look cleaner than surrounding corroded spring steel.
Why the Lower End Coil Deserves Special Attention
The lower seat can collect moisture, grit, road salt and corrosion debris. That environment can damage protective coating and accelerate local deterioration.
Follow the Last Coil
Confirm the spring reaches its correct termination point.
Clean the Seat Area
Dirt can hide corrosion and small broken spring pieces.
Check Seat Shape
Confirm the spring is aligned with the stop or locating feature.
Surface Rust vs Pitting vs Serious Spring Weakening
Rust should be judged by its effect on spring integrity. A spring does not become defective simply because its coating has aged, but deep corrosion can reduce material and create stress concentrations.
Light Oxidation
Coating loss or surface rust without meaningful section loss.
Pitting
Local corrosion pits can act as fatigue-stress concentration points.
Significant Section Loss
Material loss may materially reduce spring strength and increase fracture risk.
End coils and spring-seat contact areas deserve particular attention because road contamination, abrasion and repeated loading can combine there.
Spring Seat and Isolator Inspection
Spring replacement should not be treated as complete until the mounting surfaces supporting the new spring have also been checked.
Seat Corrosion
Check for thinning, perforation or distortion of the spring platform.
Isolator Condition
Inspect rubber pads for tearing, hardening, displacement or loss.
Correct Location
Confirm the spring end aligns with the intended seat stop or recess.
How Incorrect Coil Spring Seating Is Confirmed
A spring should be compared with the shape of its seat and the manufacturer's intended installation position.
End Coil Position
Check whether the final coil ends at the intended locator or stop.
Isolator Position
Ensure any rubber pad is correctly aligned and not folded underneath the spring.
Recheck Through Movement
Confirm the spring remains correctly located as suspension load changes.
How to Compare Ride Height Properly
A visual impression can be misleading. Tyre pressure, road slope, fuel load and vehicle loading can all make one corner appear lower.
Level Ground
Park on a reasonably flat surface.
Equal Tyre Pressures
Incorrect tyre pressure can distort body-height comparison.
Consistent Measuring Points
Compare equivalent body or wheel-centre references side to side.
A broken end coil can exist with very little measurable height difference, while a low corner can have causes other than spring fracture.
Coil Spring vs Shock Absorber: Which Part Has Failed?
| Finding | Spring more likely | Damper more likely |
|---|---|---|
| Visible physical fracture | Yes | No |
| One corner noticeably low | Possible | Less typical |
| Heavy fluid leakage | No | Yes |
| Repeated bouncing after bumps | Not the main clue | Yes |
| Broken section in spring cup | Yes | No |
| Severe spring corrosion / section loss | Yes | No |
Check Tyre, Brake Hose and ABS-Wire Clearance
A broken spring can create a second fault if its sharp end moves towards components that normally have safe clearance from the spring.
Tyre Sidewall
Look for rubbing, cuts, scuffing or a spring end pointing towards the tyre.
Brake Hose
Confirm the hose is not trapped, rubbed or threatened through steering movement.
ABS Sensor Wiring
Inspect routing and insulation for spring-related contact damage.
Tyre damage can develop quickly if a sharp spring end makes contact. Treat confirmed contact or near-contact as an urgent repair.
Why the Opposite Coil Spring Should Be Inspected
Springs on the same axle often share similar age, mileage, road exposure and loading history. One spring failing does not prove the opposite side is defective, but it does justify a careful inspection.
Compare Corrosion
Look for similar coating loss, pitting and end-coil deterioration.
Compare Shape & Seating
Useful for identifying what normal spring termination looks like.
Compare Ride Height
A difference can support diagnosis but does not determine it alone.
What Else Should Be Checked After a Pothole-Related Spring Failure?
If the spring broke after a severe road impact, the workshop should consider whether the same event damaged other wheel-end components.
Tyre
Check sidewall, tread and internal-impact symptoms.
Wheel
Inspect for bending, cracking and run-out.
Lower Arm / Joint
Check for distortion or new suspension play.
Wheel Alignment
Confirm geometry after mechanical faults have been corrected.
Coil Spring Compression Is a High-Energy Workshop Operation
A compressed coil spring stores substantial mechanical energy. Strut-type spring replacement requires suitable spring-compression equipment and the correct workshop procedure.
Incorrect spring-compressor use or attempting to dismantle a loaded spring assembly without suitable tools can cause severe injury. This is not a repair to improvise with unsuitable clamps, straps or general-purpose tools.
What Should Be Checked After Coil Spring Replacement?
Correct Spring Specification
Confirm the spring matches the vehicle, axle and application.
Upper & Lower Seating
Verify both end coils sit in their intended locations.
Isolator Position
Confirm pads or rubber interfaces are correctly installed.
Tyre & Hose Clearance
Check no part of the spring interferes with nearby components.
Ride Height
Compare the repaired side after the suspension settles.
Road-Test
Confirm the original noise or handling complaint has disappeared.
How a Mechanic Decides What Coil Spring Repair Is Needed
Spring Fractured
Replace the defective spring and inspect the seat and neighbouring components.
Seriously Weakened
Replace before structural deterioration progresses to fracture.
Spring Insecure / Mis-Seated
Identify whether the cause is the spring, seat, isolator or previous installation.
Spring Sound, Noise Remains
Continue into top mount, damper, drop link, bush and ball-joint diagnosis.
The repair decision should be supported by a confirmed fracture, serious weakening, seating problem or spring-security defect.
Coil Spring Fault Severity Guide
Surface Deterioration
Coating loss or light corrosion with no fracture, serious weakening or seating problem confirmed.
Developing Corrosion / Noise
More advanced deterioration or unexplained metallic noise requiring closer inspection.
Fractured / Seriously Weakened / Insecure
Confirmed spring failure or loss of correct security.
Critical Attachment / Tyre Risk
Severe spring-security fault or broken spring threatening tyre or wheel-end safety.
Mechanic-Style Coil Spring Diagnostic Decision Table
| Inspection result | Likely conclusion | Next confirmation | Repair direction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light surface rust only | Cosmetic / early deterioration | Check for pitting or section loss | Monitor if structurally sound |
| Deep corrosion / significant section loss | Possible serious weakening | Inspect full affected area | Replace if integrity compromised |
| Main coil visibly fractured | Broken spring | Inspect seats and neighbouring components | Replace spring |
| Short end coil missing | Hidden end-coil fracture | Inspect spring seat for loose piece | Replace spring |
| Loose curved steel piece in spring cup | Broken end coil likely | Match with remaining spring termination | Replace spring |
| Spring moves at full droop but relocates correctly | May be design-dependent | Confirm normal running security | No repair if serviceable |
| Spring fails to relocate after lowering | Spring insecure / seating problem | Inspect spring, seat and isolator | Correct cause |
| Spring end not aligned with seat stop | Incorrect seating | Check installation and seat condition | Reinstall / repair correctly |
| One corner low + spring fracture found | Spring length lost | Check opposite spring and geometry | Replace spring |
| One corner low but spring intact | Alternative fault possible | Check spring specification, loading and structure | Diagnose further |
| Metallic twang but spring intact | Alternative suspension fault possible | Check top mount, drop link, seat and bush | Repair confirmed source |
| Broken spring near tyre | Immediate secondary-risk concern | Inspect tyre and clearance | Urgent spring replacement |
| Spring broken after severe pothole | Possible impact-related failure | Check wheel, tyre, arm and alignment | Repair all confirmed damage |
| Spring replaced, ride height restored | Support fault corrected | Confirm seating, clearance and road behaviour | Complete repair |
Compare ride height → trace the complete spring → inspect both end coils and spring seats → distinguish surface rust from serious weakening → confirm seating during suspension movement → inspect tyre and component clearance → compare the opposite spring → verify correct seating after replacement.
Is It Safe to Drive With a Broken Coil Spring?
A confirmed broken coil spring should not be treated as a fault to ignore until the next service. The immediate risk depends on where the spring has fractured, whether it remains securely located and whether the broken end can contact the tyre, brake hose, ABS wiring or another suspension component.
A small broken end coil may leave the vehicle sitting almost normally, but that does not restore the spring's structural integrity. The spring has already failed and its position can change as the suspension compresses, extends or the steering moves.
Surface Corrosion Only
No fracture, serious weakening, insecurity, abnormal ride height or component contact has been confirmed.
Noise or Developing Corrosion
Metallic suspension noise or substantial corrosion is present, but the exact defect has not yet been established.
Confirmed Broken Spring
The spring is fractured, seriously weakened, insecure or no longer locating correctly.
Tyre / Security Risk
A sharp spring end threatens the tyre or another safety-critical component, or spring attachment security is seriously compromised.
A broken spring end rubbing a tyre can damage the sidewall. Likewise, a spring that is no longer securely located should not be treated as suitable for continued everyday driving simply because the vehicle can still move.
What Happens If You Keep Driving With a Broken Coil Spring?
The consequences depend on the fracture location and suspension design. The main concern is not simply that the car may ride badly; the failed spring can change position and create additional damage.
More Spring Can Break
The remaining spring continues through repeated compression cycles despite its altered length and load distribution.
Tyre Damage
A fractured end can move towards the tyre and potentially damage the sidewall.
Spring Can Move
Loss of an end coil can alter how securely the remaining spring sits in its seat.
Ride Height Can Change
Further spring failure can lower the affected corner and alter suspension geometry.
Other Parts Can Be Damaged
Spring seats, isolators, damper assemblies, brake hoses and ABS wiring can all require inspection.
MOT Failure Remains
A fractured spring remains an MOT defect until the fault has been correctly repaired.
A small end-coil fracture can exist long before there is a dramatic ride-height difference. Once fracture has been physically confirmed, the repair decision should be based on the failed spring rather than waiting for stronger symptoms.
How Much Does Coil Spring Replacement Cost in the UK?
Coil spring replacement cost varies considerably with suspension design, labour access, spring specification and whether associated components need replacing. Front MacPherson-strut springs generally require more dismantling than many separate rear-spring layouts.
The figures below are practical budgeting ranges rather than fixed quotations. Vehicle model, region, labour rate, seized fixings, spring specification and additional damage can move the final price outside these ranges.
Typical Budget
£100–£220Some rear suspension layouts allow the spring to be removed separately from the shock absorber, reducing labour compared with a complete strut assembly.
Typical Budget
£160–£350MacPherson-strut designs normally require removal and controlled disassembly of the strut before the spring can be replaced.
Typical Budget
£220–£600+Replacing both springs on an axle increases parts and labour cost but can be sensible where both springs share substantial age, mileage and corrosion exposure.
Additional Work
£60–£180+A worn strut top mount or bearing may be economical to replace while the assembly is already dismantled.
Additional Work
£120–£400+Spring failure does not automatically mean the damper needs replacement. Replace it when its own condition justifies doing so.
Geometry Check
£40–£120+Alignment requirements depend on the suspension design, what was disturbed and whether geometry symptoms remain after repair.
Two garages can appear to quote very different prices when one quotation covers a single spring and the other includes an axle pair, top mounts or alignment. Compare the actual scope of work, not only the total figure.
Coil Spring Repair Cost Decision Table
| Repair situation | Likely cost effect | Mechanic decision | What to ask the garage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simple separate rear spring | Usually lower labour | Replace confirmed defective spring | Is the opposite spring serviceable? |
| Front MacPherson spring | Higher labour | Remove and safely dismantle strut | Are top mount and bearing being inspected? |
| Both springs heavily corroded | Axle-pair cost may be justified | Assess both independently | What condition is the unbroken spring actually in? |
| Spring plus failed top mount | Additional parts, limited duplicated labour | Repair both confirmed faults while assembly is apart | Does the mount have play, damage or bearing failure? |
| Spring plus defective damper | Potentially significant additional cost | Replace damper only if independently defective | What evidence shows the damper has failed? |
| Corroded / damaged spring seat | Can substantially increase repair | Restore safe spring support before fitting new spring | Is the seat repairable or part of another component? |
| Impact damage also present | Wheel, tyre, arm or geometry costs possible | Repair confirmed impact damage as a system | Was the spring the only damaged component? |
| Alignment required afterwards | Add geometry cost | Measure rather than guess where appropriate | Is this a check or a full adjustment? |
Should Coil Springs Be Replaced in Pairs?
A broken spring does not automatically prove the spring on the opposite side has failed. However, both springs on an axle often share similar age, mileage, loading and exposure to road salt.
When Single-Spring Replacement May Be Reasonable
- ✓ Opposite spring is comparatively recent and serviceable.
- ✓ Correct matching spring specification is available.
- ✓ No significant opposite-side corrosion or deterioration is found.
- ✓ Ride height remains appropriate after repair.
When Axle-Pair Replacement Becomes More Attractive
- ✓ Both springs are original and similarly aged.
- ✓ Opposite spring shows substantial corrosion.
- ✓ There is concern about matched ride height or spring characteristics.
- ✓ Labour economics make preventative replacement sensible.
The professional decision considers spring specification, age, corrosion, mileage, opposite-side condition and manufacturer information. Inspect the second spring rather than assuming either that it must be replaced or that it must be left alone.
Why Front and Rear Coil Spring Replacement Costs Can Differ
Front MacPherson Strut
The spring normally surrounds the strut. Replacement can involve removing the strut assembly, safely compressing the spring, removing the upper mount and rebuilding the assembly.
Separate Rear Spring
On some rear layouts the spring sits separately between the body and suspension arm or axle. Correctly unloading the suspension may allow removal without dismantling a complete strut.
Some rear vehicles use struts and some front suspension systems differ from the common MacPherson arrangement. The actual vehicle design determines the repair procedure and labour time.
What Else Might Need Replacing With a Coil Spring?
Finding a broken spring does not justify automatically replacing every component around it. However, dismantling the suspension gives the workshop an opportunity to inspect parts that share the same assembly or may have been damaged by the failure.
Top Mount
Replace when rubber separation, excessive movement or another genuine mounting fault is present.
Strut Bearing
Inspect for roughness, seizure, noise or steering-related binding on applicable front strut systems.
Shock Absorber
Check for severe leakage, damage and ineffective damping rather than replacing it simply because the spring failed.
Spring Seat / Isolator
Replace or repair damaged support components that would prevent the new spring from sitting securely.
Reusing a badly damaged spring seat is poor practice, but replacing a perfectly serviceable damper simply because the strut is apart is not automatically necessary. Inspect, prove and repair.
What Happens After a Coil Spring MOT Failure?
If the vehicle failed because the spring was fractured, seriously weakened or insecure, the defect needs to be repaired and the vehicle presented for the appropriate MOT retest.
Repair the Recorded Defect
Replace or correctly secure the defective spring and address any associated mounting fault.
Confirm the Repair
Check spring seating, security and surrounding component clearance.
Present for Retest
Follow the applicable retest process rather than assuming a repair automatically changes the recorded MOT result.
Replacing the spring will not resolve an unrelated tyre, brake, steering or suspension defect recorded during the same MOT.
Do You Need Wheel Alignment After Replacing a Coil Spring?
Not every coil spring replacement automatically requires the same alignment procedure. The answer depends on suspension design, which joints or mountings were disturbed and whether the original failure or repair changed wheel geometry.
Strut Removed
Geometry should be considered where strut-to-hub or other alignment-sensitive connections were disturbed.
Pothole Damage
A geometry check is sensible when a severe impact contributed to the failure or the car subsequently pulls.
Uneven Tyre Wear / Pull
Measure alignment after mechanical defects are repaired rather than using alignment to mask a suspension fault.
Alignment cannot correct a broken spring, bent suspension arm, damaged mounting or loose joint. Mechanical integrity comes first.
What Does a Coil Spring MOT Failure Mean When Buying a Used Car?
A historic broken spring is not automatically a reason to reject a used car. Springs are replaceable suspension components. The more important question is whether the repair was completed properly and whether the MOT history shows a wider pattern of neglected suspension deterioration.
Historic Failure, Properly Repaired
Spring failure appears once, repair is credible and current suspension condition is good.
Repeated Spring Advisories
Recurring deterioration suggests repairs may have been delayed or only the minimum work was completed.
Wider Suspension Pattern
Springs, bushes, joints, tyres, corrosion and alignment-related issues recur across several MOT tests.
Previous Coil Spring Advisories and Repeated Corrosion History
MOT history becomes more useful when viewed as a sequence rather than as isolated annual results.
| MOT-history pattern | What it may suggest | Used-car action |
|---|---|---|
| One historic spring failure followed by clean tests | Likely repaired successfully | Confirm current condition |
| Repeated spring corrosion advisories | Deterioration may have been monitored rather than repaired | Inspect both sides closely |
| Spring failure followed by opposite-side failure | Age-related axle-pair deterioration possible | Check what was replaced and when |
| Spring + bush + joint advisories | Broader suspension wear pattern | Budget for suspension inspection |
| Spring failure after tyre / wheel impact history | Possible pothole or kerb damage | Check wheel, tyre and geometry |
| Repeated advisories with minimal repair evidence | Maintenance may have been reactive | Increase buying caution |
One replaced spring is usually far less concerning than years of recurring suspension, tyre and corrosion defects that suggest the car has repeatedly received only enough work to remain usable.
Coil Spring Pre-MOT Inspection Checklist
Some spring failures are difficult to see without workshop access, but a careful pre-MOT inspection can still identify useful warning signs.
Visual Checks
- ✓ Compare vehicle ride height side to side on level ground.
- ✓ Look for a visibly fractured coil where access allows.
- ✓ Check for severe spring corrosion and damaged coating.
- ✓ Look inside accessible spring seats for loose broken sections.
- ✓ Check whether the spring appears correctly located.
Symptom Checks
- ✓ Listen for new metallic twanging or clunking over bumps.
- ✓ Investigate a corner that suddenly sits lower.
- ✓ Investigate handling changes after a severe pothole strike.
- ✓ Check for tyre rubbing or unusual wheel-arch contact.
- ✓ Do not ignore a previous MOT spring advisory.
If the spring ends or seats cannot be inspected safely from normal access, use suitable workshop lifting and support equipment or have the suspension professionally inspected.
Can Coil Spring Failure Be Prevented?
Coil springs are long-term wear and fatigue components, so no maintenance routine can guarantee that one will never break. However, early inspection can identify deterioration before it becomes a surprise MOT failure.
Inspect Corrosion
Pay attention to coating loss, pitting and deterioration around spring seats.
Investigate New Noise
Metallic twangs or rattles after a pothole strike deserve inspection rather than months of observation.
Repair Damaged Seats
A replacement spring needs a sound and correctly shaped support surface.
Use Correct Springs
Fit the correct specification for the vehicle and axle rather than choosing a spring because it merely appears to fit.
Not Sure Whether the Noise Is the Coil Spring?
Suspension noises overlap. A broken spring, top mount, drop link, ball joint, lower-arm bush and shock absorber can all produce symptoms that a driver describes as a knock or clunk.
Use the Motor Vehicle Expert Diagnostic App to work from the symptom and driving condition towards the systems most worth checking before parts are replaced.
Start With the Symptom
Choose the noise, handling change or suspension behaviour you are experiencing.
Match the Driving Condition
Separate faults that occur over bumps, while steering, during braking or after an impact.
Narrow the Inspection
Use the result to prioritise the components most relevant to the symptom.
The final repair decision should still come from physical confirmation of the defective component.
Can a Coil Spring Fail an MOT? Key Takeaways
Yes — a Broken Spring Can Fail
A fractured or seriously weakened coil spring is an MOT concern, as is a spring that is insecurely attached.
End-Coil Breaks Can Hide
A short fractured section can remain inside the spring seat while ride height still looks almost normal.
Rust Alone Is Not the Diagnosis
Distinguish surface corrosion from pitting, significant section loss and serious structural weakening.
Inspect Spring Security
The spring must remain securely located and correctly return to its intended position through suspension movement.
Check the Tyre
A sharp broken spring end near the tyre, brake hose or ABS wiring substantially increases repair urgency.
Diagnose the Whole Assembly
Spring seats, isolators, top mounts, dampers and neighbouring suspension components should be checked before the repair is closed.
Inspect the Opposite Spring
Springs on the same axle often share similar age and corrosion exposure, although each side should still be judged on condition.
Pair Replacement Is a Decision
Spring age, specification, opposite-side condition and repair economics should determine whether one or both are replaced.
Confirm the Repair
Correct spring specification, seating, clearance, ride height and road behaviour should all be checked after replacement.
Do not diagnose from rust, noise or ride height alone. Trace the complete spring → find both end coils → inspect both seats → establish whether it is fractured, seriously weakened or insecure → check tyre and component clearance → inspect the opposite spring → repair the confirmed fault → verify seating and security afterwards.
Related Suspension, Steering and Vibration Guides
A broken coil spring sits within the wider suspension system. Once the spring itself has been inspected, use the specialist guides below to investigate neighbouring suspension faults, wheel-location problems, steering pull or vibration symptoms without confusing them with the spring failure.
Can Suspension Fail an MOT?
The main suspension MOT pillar covering springs, shock absorbers, arms, bushes, joints, mountings, corrosion, excessive wear and suspension security.
Suspension MOT Guide →Can a Lower Arm Fail an MOT?
Use this guide where a pothole, impact or suspension inspection also raises concern about lower-arm bushes, structural arm damage, ball-joint integration or mounting security.
Lower Arm MOT Guide →Can a Ball Joint Fail an MOT?
Go deeper into suspension-joint play, joint retention, dust-cover condition and the difference between normal articulation and excessive wear.
Ball Joint MOT Guide →Car Pulls Left or Right When Driving
Use this guide if a spring failure, ride-height difference or recent suspension repair is accompanied by directional pull.
Steering Pull Diagnosis →Car Pulling to One Side Causes
Compare spring and suspension faults with tyre pressure, tyre conicity, brake drag, wheel alignment and other causes of directional pull.
Pulling Causes Guide →Car Shaking & Vibration Diagnosis
Use the wider vibration pillar when shaking is present but the source has not yet been isolated to suspension, tyres, wheels, brakes or drivetrain.
Vibration Diagnosis →Steering Wheel Shaking While Driving
Compare suspension movement with tyre, wheel, bearing and brake faults when vibration is strongest through the steering.
Steering Vibration Guide →Why Does My Steering Wheel Shake?
A deeper steering-wheel shake guide for diagnosing speed, braking, tyre, wheel, bearing and suspension-related vibration.
Steering Wheel Shake →Car Shakes at High Speed
Use this specialist guide if vibration increases with road speed after a suspension repair or pothole impact and tyre, wheel or wheel-bearing faults need separating from the spring.
High-Speed Vibration →Car Shakes When Braking
Use this guide where shaking is strongest under braking and needs separating from suspension movement, brake-disc issues, hub run-out and other brake-related causes.
Braking Vibration Guide →Vehicle Diagnostics
Continue into wider suspension, steering, vibration, braking and road-symptom diagnosis.
Browse Diagnostics →A broken spring can exist alongside worn bushes, ball-joint play, tyre damage or impact-related geometry changes. Start with the wider suspension guide when the problem extends beyond the spring itself, then move into the specialist component page.
Coil Spring MOT FAQs
These answers cover coil spring MOT failure, fracture, insecurity, spring seating, corrosion, ride height, tyre-contact risk, replacement and post-repair checks.
Can a coil spring fail an MOT?
Yes. A coil spring can fail an MOT if it is fractured, seriously weakened or insecurely attached. Spring security is also assessed to make sure the spring correctly locates when the suspension returns to its normal running position.
Is a broken coil spring a Major MOT defect?
Yes. A spring or spring component that is fractured or seriously weakened is classified as a Major defect under the MOT inspection rules for cars and passenger vehicles.
Can a coil spring be a Dangerous MOT defect?
A coil spring fault can be Dangerous in specific circumstances. For example, spring fixings that are loose to the extent that relative movement is visible are classified as Dangerous. The exact result depends on the defect found rather than simply whether the spring looks old or rusty.
Will an insecure coil spring fail an MOT?
Yes. A spring that is insecurely attached to the chassis or axle is a Major defect. If its fixings are loose to the extent that relative movement is visible, the defect is Dangerous.
Can a coil spring fail an MOT if it is not seated correctly?
Yes, if the spring does not correctly locate when the suspension is returned to its normal running position. MOT guidance requires coil spring security to be assessed while the vehicle is jacked and lowered, and a spring that does not correctly relocate should be rejected as insecurely attached.
Can a rusty coil spring fail an MOT?
Rust alone does not automatically mean a coil spring will fail. The important issue is whether deterioration has seriously weakened or fractured the spring, affected its security or damaged associated suspension structure.
Can only the end of a coil spring break?
Yes. A coil spring can fracture near an end coil rather than through the middle. The broken piece may remain in or near the spring seat, so the fault can be less obvious than a spring that has visibly collapsed.
Can a broken coil spring make one side of the car sit lower?
Yes. Depending on where the spring has fractured and how much of the coil has been lost, one corner of the vehicle may sit lower. However, a small end-coil fracture may cause little obvious ride-height change, so normal ride height does not rule out a broken spring.
Can a broken coil spring damage a tyre?
Yes. A fractured or displaced spring end can potentially contact a tyre or another nearby component depending on the suspension layout. Any broken spring close to the tyre should be treated as a serious safety concern and inspected before further normal driving.
What are the symptoms of a broken coil spring?
Possible symptoms include a metallic twang or clunk, rattling over bumps, one corner sitting lower, changed handling, tyre or suspension contact and a visible broken coil. Some end-coil fractures produce very little obvious driving symptom and are only found during inspection.
Can a broken coil spring cause a knocking or twanging noise?
Yes. A broken spring end can move against the spring seat or neighbouring components and produce a metallic clunk, rattle or twang as the suspension moves. Similar noises can also come from top mounts, drop links, bushes and ball joints, so inspection should confirm the source.
Can a broken coil spring make a car pull to one side?
It can if the spring fault changes ride height or wheel geometry significantly, but pulling can also be caused by tyres, wheel alignment, brake drag and other suspension or steering faults. The spring should be inspected rather than diagnosed from pulling alone.
Can a broken coil spring damage a shock absorber or top mount?
A spring failure can alter suspension loading or allow parts of the spring to move from their intended position, so the shock absorber, strut, spring seats and top mount should be inspected at the same time. A broken spring does not automatically mean those parts also need replacement.
Is it safe to drive with a broken coil spring?
Driving with a confirmed broken coil spring is not recommended. The spring may no longer support or locate correctly, and a displaced or sharp broken end can create additional risks. If ride height has dropped, the vehicle feels unstable or the spring is close to a tyre, arrange repair or recovery rather than continuing normal driving.
Should coil springs be replaced in pairs?
Coil springs do not have to be replaced in pairs in every situation, but pair replacement on the same axle is often recommended when both springs are of similar age and condition. This can help maintain more even ride height and spring characteristics while reducing the risk of the opposite old spring failing soon afterwards.
Do you need wheel alignment after coil spring replacement?
Not every coil spring replacement automatically requires wheel alignment, but an alignment check can be sensible where a strut or geometry-related suspension component has been removed, the vehicle had abnormal tyre wear, or the spring failed after a heavy pothole or impact.
What else should be checked when a coil spring breaks?
The opposite spring, spring seats, isolators, shock absorber or strut, top mount, tyre clearance, brake hose and nearby suspension components should be inspected. If the failure followed a severe road impact, the wheel, tyre and wheel alignment may also need checking.
Should I replace a broken coil spring before an MOT?
Yes. If a coil spring is known to be fractured, seriously weakened or insecure, it should be repaired before the MOT rather than presented simply to see whether it passes. A confirmed spring fault is safety-related and can also affect neighbouring suspension components.