If you asked the garage to do whatever needed to be done to fix the fault, you’ll probably have to pay the full amount – as long as the work was necessary and the price is reasonable.

However, if the garage has carried out work that you didn't ask for, you can either insist you only pay for what was agreed or you can refuse to pay for the additional work and dispute the bill. You’ll have to tell the garage why you think the bill is too high and what you're prepared to pay.

While you’re disputing the bill, the garage has the right to keep your vehicle until the bill has been paid. If you need your car urgently, you should only pay under protest. State this clearly in writing on the repair order sheet, say why you think the bill is too high, and make it clear that you intend to take the claim to the county court

If you can’t afford to pay the bill under protest, or the costs of going to court would be more than the amount of money you’re disputing, talk to the garage to try and come to an agreement about what you should pay.

The garage can't sell or get rid of your car while you’re disputing the bill, so they may be prepared to negotiate with you to get the vehicle off their hands.

But don't take your car away before you’ve paid the bill, or you could be prosecuted for theft.

Carrying out work that you didn't ask for or which is unnecessary could be breaking the law. If you suspect the garage has done this, report them to Consumer Direct who can advise you (08454 04 05 06 or www.consumerdirect.gov.uk )

I took my car into a local garage for some minor repairs and when I went to collect it they wanted to charge me much more than was originally agreed.  They won’t let me take my car away until I pay the full amount. What can I do?