The average wing mirror replacement cost in the UK sits around £220.

If you regularly park anything larger than a small car on narrow UK streets, wing mirror damage can quickly become a frequent and costly problem. As cars grow in size and include more advanced technology, replacements are becoming more common and expensive.

In this article, we will break down the costs of replacing a wing mirror and provide average prices for popular car models.

How much does it cost to replace a wing mirror?

The average wing mirror replacement cost in the UK is £220. This is per wing mirror, so two will set you back £440.

Cars on the lower end should expect a price starting from £130, whereas more expensive models (e.g., Range Rovers, Mercedes and BMW) may have to pay as much as £300 per mirror.

If your car is a little older and parts are easy to get, it could be as low as £85. 

 to split the cost of repairs into interest-free instalments.

Wing mirror replacement costs by car make

For an accurate estimate, it’s helpful to look at wing mirror replacement costs for your car make. 

Here’s an overview of popular UK car brands and costs per each wing mirror:

How much does it cost to replace an electric wing mirror? 

The average UK electric wing mirror cost is £255.

If your car has blind spot detection or lane-keeping sensors, a replacement could cost up to £350, especially if the sensor is damaged. 

Basic mirrors without electronic features are cheaper, while modern ones with motors and heaters are more expensive due to fitting costs and potential software updates.

Here are the typical electric wing mirror costs by brand:

How long does it take to replace your wing mirror?

Wing mirror replacement times range from 1-3 days. 

Waiting for the part to arrive usually takes longer than the repair itself unless the mirror is particularly complex or has damaged fixings.

Since wing mirrors are commonly damaged, replacement parts are widely available. For brands like Ford and Vauxhall, you can even buy colour-coded covers directly from their websites.

Yes, your car insurance can cover wing mirror damage, but it depends on the type of policy you have. 

Comprehensive insurance usually includes accidental damage to mirrors, while third-party, fire, and theft policies generally do not. 

Keep in mind that making a claim may mean paying your policy excess, and repeated claims could affect your premiums. Always check your policy details or speak with your insurer to be sure what’s covered.

Claiming for a wing mirror isn’t always worth it. 

If the repair cost is close to your insurance excess or you risk higher premiums, it’s often cheaper to fix it yourself. 

Always check your policy, but for small damage, DIY or a local repair is usually the smarter choice.

Is it illegal to drive without a wing mirror?

 vehicles to have two functioning, properly adjusted mirrors, including the interior rear-view mirror.

This makes it legal to drive with only one wing mirror. However, for vehicles without a rear-view mirror, like vans, driving with one wing mirror is illegal.

Additionally, if a damaged mirror exposes sharp edges, it could be deemed Dangerous and Defective under section 40a of the Road Traffic Act, making it illegal to drive.

Can I legally drive with one wing mirror?

As explored above, technically, yes, in the UK, you can legally drive with only one wing mirror, but only under certain conditions. 

Driving without a passenger side mirror is legal as long as the interior mirror provides adequate rear visibility.

Can you get pulled over for a cracked wing mirror?

Yes, in the UK, you can be stopped by the police for a cracked or damaged wing mirror if it affects your ability to see properly. 

Driving with a broken or missing mirror could be considered unsafe and may result in a fine or penalty points.

Minor cosmetic cracks that do not affect visibility are less likely to be an issue, but it’s always safest to repair or replace a damaged wing mirror promptly to stay legal and maintain safety on the road.

Signs your wing mirror needs a replacement

A clean break isn’t the only time you’ll need a new wing mirror. Here are some other signs you need a replacement:

Will a car fail an MOT if the wing mirror is broken? 

A missing driver's side mirror is a Major MOT fault and will result in a failure. 

If the passenger side mirror is damaged or missing, it may only receive an advisory, provided the car has two other mirrors. 

However, if the damage creates a hazard, it may still be deemed unsafe by the MOT tester.

What happens in a wing mirror replacement?

During a mirror replacement, the mechanic will remove the broken wing mirror and, if necessary, the mirror mount. They will then disconnect any required electrical connections.

After installing the new mirror, the mechanic will test all of its functions to ensure everything is working correctly.

If you are unsure, it is best not to attempt replacing a wing mirror yourself. You shouldn’t make repairs without experience or training.

However, with labour costs at garages approaching £70 per hour, small repairs can soon get expensive. It may well be possible to change your wing mirror at home, provided you have the right tools and knowledge. 

If you have a decent toolkit and the right parts, the job should take about an hour, and sourcing parts is usually straightforward.

Can I just replace the wing mirror glass?

Yes, professional wing mirror glass replacement costs are usually around £12 per mirror.

If only the wing mirror glass is broken, you can usually replace just the glass without taking the whole mirror apart or buying an expensive new one.

Wing mirrors consist of several parts, but the glass is typically held in place with plastic tabs or adhesive. If just the glass is broken, you can usually find affordable replacement parts online.

Factors to consider when replacing wing mirror glass:

Aftermarket wing mirrors can be a cost-effective option, but quality and compatibility vary. Before buying, keep these considerations in mind:

When chosen carefully, aftermarket mirrors can provide a good balance of affordability and functionality, but OEM parts remain the safest option for a perfect fit and quality.

Common causes of electric wing mirror faults

When a standard wing mirror breaks, it’s usually quite clear what caused it. However, electric wing mirrors may require more investigation.

Typical causes of electric wing mirror issues include:

Replacing a wing mirror may seem straightforward, but mistakes can be costly and affect your safety. 

Unless you are completely confident in your skills, it is best to have a professional handle the repair. Getting an expert to carry out the work ensures your vehicle stays roadworthy and helps you manage wing mirror replacement costs effectively.

Wing mirror replacement costs don’t have to be a burden in your budget, especially if you have a Bumper 

Apply online for up to £5,000 and choose from 1,000s of trusted repairers

UK Wing Mirror Replacement Cost Guide

Was kostet der Austausch eines Außenspiegels?

 May 2023 will go down as a day in history. The average person in the UK will surely see very few coronations of a monarch in their lifetime and millions will be glued to the TV screens to witness all the pomp and ceremony, the regalia and the festivities.

It got us thinking here at Bumper, what car will the King be transported in during the coronation?

Ok, it’s not a car, but the main vehicle to be used during the coronation will be this six-horse-drawn carriage responsible for transporting their Royal Highnesses King Charles III and Queen Camilla from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey.

Originally named the State Coach Britannia, the carriage was built in Australia by coachbuilder W. J. Frecklington, to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II’s 80

 birthday but the completion of the coach was delayed by nearly 8 years and instead, eventually became a commemoration for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. It was used for the first time at the State Opening of Parliament on 4

The coach is made from timber segments from various historic landmarks, cathedrals and castles including Kensington Palace, Holyrood Palace, Windsor Castle, Westminster Cathedral, The Tower of London and Winchester Cathedral to name but a few. It also includes material from various royal yachts, a donation from the Stone of Scone and part of the musket ball from the Battle of Waterloo! This eclectic mix of different elements of the coach surely encapsulates the broad history and heritage of the United Kingdom in such a magnificent way. 

To finish, the crown atop of the roof is carved from timber from Lord Nelson’s flagship, the door handles are individually decorated with 24 diamonds and 130 sapphires and the lamps are handmade by Edinburgh Crystal. 

The coach weighs 2.75 tons and is 18 ft long (5.5 m) and 11 ft high (3.4 m), has electric windows, heating air conditioning and hydraulic stabilisers and will be driven with 3 pairs of Windsor Grey horses. 

Perhaps without the need for an engine, tyres, 

 or exhaust, at least this carriage is unlikely to break down during the coronation! 

A Sneak Peek at the Coronation Coach

We’re sure there will be many classic cars at the fast-approaching coronation of King Charles III. After all, it’s a time-honoured and historic ceremony that will surely be celebrated in style.

But what will those cars be fuelled by? Most would guess petrol or diesel but that might not necessarily be the case. Not if the King’s classic blue 1970 Aston Martin is involved.

That’s because this vehicle really does run on cheese and wine. Not the type you’re likely to see on any dining table, however. This is bioethanol, made using surplus wine mixed with whey.

The motor was gifted to him by the late Queen Elizabeth II for his 21st birthday in 1969. In 2008, he decided he didn’t like how much fuel the vehicle used so asked an organic farmer to conceive a plan to make the car more eco-friendly.

Engineers at Aston Martin asked the then Prince not to make the change saying it will ruin the vehicle but being a big advocate for the environment he asked them to do it anyway. The car now drives better than ever, allegedly.

Using the vehicle for many royal engagements, the blue Aston Martin is reportedly more powerful than ever and as the King says himself “It smells delicious as you’re driving along.” 

Does King Charles III's Car Really Run on Cheese and Wine?

For most of us the biggest alterations we make to our cars are popping on a set of winter tyres for the colder weather. Whilst it’s not clear if the King takes his car to the local garage for the same reason, there are some more maverick modifications he’s made to his motors.

 birthday, this Seychelles blue Aston Martin has had some eco-friendly modifications made to it. Back in 2008, the environment-conscious then-Prince didn’t like how much fuel the vehicle guzzled so had it converted to run on cheese and wine. 

Well, not exactly cheese and wine. Bioethanol is made from surplus wine and whey, a cheese by-product; which the King says, “smells delicious when you’re driving along.” 

Whilst the King made a very serious eco-friendly decision with this Aston Martin, he can never let us forget his sense of humour. That’s why he’s placed a fake ejector seat button on the dashboard to make his passengers feel a little nervous. 

Another gift, this time from the Emir of Bahrain, the Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante was modified to make the vehicle appear much sleeker. After complaining the car looked too “beefy” he had Aston Martin remove the boot spoiler and side skirts. Features that marked this car out as a Vantage. 

and changed the colour to “balmoral green”. We think maybe the Emir should try a voucher next time! 

The King’s preferred transport in the mid-90s was a green Aston Martin Virage Volante. Upgrades the king made to this vehicle included changing the engine from 5.2 to 6.3 litres (allowing it to reach speeds of up to 175mph), an added police radio and a second rear-view mirror so his protection officer could keep an eye on any tailing vehicles. 

But perhaps the most eccentric change was a fitted leather jar, custom-made to store sugar cubes for his ponies.

The Odd Quirks of King Charles III's Automobiles

Brake hoses are vital for your vehicle's braking system, transferring fluid from the master cylinder to the callipers, allowing your car to stop. Maintaining them is crucial, as worn hoses can reduce stopping power.

Need a replacement? Discover the average brake pipe replacement cost in the UK and read some common FAQs in Bumper’s guide.

brake pipe replacement cost in the UK £75 to £180. 

The cost can vary depending on factors like your vehicle’s make and model, location, and labour rates. 

The estimate above covers both parts and labour, but extra charges may apply if other components in the braking system need repair or replacement.

Worried about the costs? With Bumper you could benefit from 0% interest 

 and pay for car repairs in instalments in easy-to-manage monthly payments.

The average brake pipe replacement cost by car make

Here's a rough comparison of brake hose replacement costs for popular car makers in the UK. 

Keep in mind though that these figures are approximate and may vary based on factors mentioned earlier:

Your brake hose replacement cost depends on several factors, one of which is location. Below, we’ve included rough estimates for major UK areas.

Brake hoses are flexible tubes that connect the brake callipers to the metal brake lines from the master cylinder. 

They handle the pressure and heat from braking while allowing the suspension and brakes to move. 

When you press the brake pedal, brake fluid flows through the hoses to the callipers, which press the brake pads against the rotors to slow down your vehicle.

What's the difference between a brake hose and brake lines?

The main difference between a brake hose and a brake line is their flexibility and where they're used in the braking system. 

Both serve similar functions, there are some key differences between them:

There are two common types of brake hoses (pipes) used in vehicles: rubber brake hoses and stainless steel braided brake hoses.

Rubber brake hoses are a common, affordable choice for many UK drivers, as they're often factory-installed. 

However, they can wear down over time due to heat, moisture, and chemicals, leading to cracks or splits that compromise the braking system. 

Regular inspections and timely replacements are essential. Despite potential wear, rubber hoses remain a reliable option for those prioritising cost and performance, with maintenance being key to their longevity.

Stainless steel braided brake hoses are a popular upgrade for car enthusiasts due to their superior performance and durability. 

Though pricier than rubber or plastic hoses, they resist swelling under pressure, providing a more consistent brake feel. 

They're also more durable, less prone to cracking or wear, and ensure long-term reliability. 

While the initial cost is higher, the lasting benefits make them a worthwhile investment for those seeking better braking performance.

Unsure if you need a replacement? Some common symptoms of a failing brake hose include:

If you notice any of these signs, it's essential to inspect your brake hoses for damage and consider replacing them if necessary.

Delaying replacement can lead to further damage and compromise your vehicle's braking ability.

No. Driving with a damaged or broken brake hose is incredibly dangerous and puts you and other road users at risk.

If you suspect brake hose damage, it's best to play it safe and get a professional inspection right away.

Brakes are crucial for safety, and brake hoses transfer hydraulic pressure from the master cylinder to the callipers or wheel cylinders. A damaged hose can reduce stopping power and even lead to brake failure.

Watch for warning signs like soft brakes, excessive pedal travel, fluid leaks, or strange noises.

Ignoring these issues can lead to accidents and costly repairs, so maintaining brake hoses should always be a priority for drivers.

Yes, corroded brake pipes can result in MOT failure.

 They pose a significant risk to your vehicle's braking efficiency and safety on the road.

To maintain your brake pipes and avoid MOT failure:

 brake hose pipes can last between 8 to 15 years 

The average lifespan of brake pipes varies depending on factors such as driving conditions, exposure to moisture and salt, and maintenance habits.

Replacing your brake pipes offers significant benefits beyond improved braking performance. 

New pipes reduce the risk of brake failure due to corrosion or damage, keeping you safe and helping you avoid costly repairs. 

Investing in new brake pipes also gives you peace of mind, especially if you rely on your car for work or family. Proactively replacing worn-out pipes ensures reliable performance and safety, so don’t hesitate to consult a trusted garage.

No, you don’t have to replace brake hoses in pairs. However, it’s good to change them together as they’ve probably worn at the same speed. Your mechanic will likely advise this after a routine inspection.

How long do brake pipe replacements take?

brake pipe replacement to take around an hour and a half

This time can be slightly longer or shorter, depending on whether any other issues are found in the process and how long it takes to dismantle the vehicle. 

What happens in a brake pipe replacement?

Wondering why a brake pipe replacement takes 1.5 hours? Here’s what goes on while your car is being serviced.

Hopefully, we've given you some insight on common brake pipe replacement costs. There's no one cost for every car, but you can start to gauge how much your replacement will cost based on your make and location. 

Remember to consult an expert at the first sign of brake pipe problems! Maintaining your vehicle is critical to keeping yourself and other drivers safe. 

Bumper knows a large repair bill on your car is the last thing you want to spend your money on, but essential parts such as shocks are crucial for you and your family’s safety. 

Look after your car and your bank balance by splitting the cost or repairs into monthly instalments, interest-free

Join the Bumper community and get access to the best care for you and your car. Choose a dependable dealership and 

split your car repair bill into monthly chunks

How Much Does a Brake Pipe Replacement Cost?

Wie viel kostet es, einen Bremsschlauch zu wechseln?

We’re delighted to announce that Lookers BMW have been named Dealership of the Month for March 2023. The win follows an exceptional month for the Stoke-based team utilising Bumper’s payment options across the site’s service and sales departments.

Having recently completed Bumper’s refresher training course in February the site saw a sharp uptick in the usage of Bumper’s PayLater payment option allowing customers to split the cost of repairs, services, accessories, and value-added products into interest-free monthly instalments.

The award was presented to the team by Bumper’s Business Development Consultant for the Midlands and South West, Islay Horton. Islay is pictured below with Lookers BMW Stoke’s Used Car Sales Transaction Manager, Antony Hine, and Sales Executive, Daniel Price.

Islay, commented, “It’s terrific to see how the team here at BMW Stoke recognise the importance of offering additional payment options to customers. Their recent refresher training has really boosted the team’s confidence in discussing multiple payment options and it’s great to see the site and customers alike now benefiting from this. 

“It’s never been more important, at a time when we’re all feeling the pinch, that we enable drivers to carry out essential maintenance and access products that better protect their vehicles and wallets in the future.”

Pictured above, are Senior Service Advisor Jordan Eldergil and Service Advisor, Molly Plant.

A big well done to all the team at Lookers BMW Stoke! 

Lookers BMW Stoke Named Dealership of the Month

With the weather beginning to brighten up, many motorists might find themselves with the extra time and sunny weather needed to have a good clean out of their car.

Deep cleaning your vehicle not only makes it look nice, but it can also actually prevent costly maintenance bills down the line. With this in mind, we’ve outlined eight simple steps you can follow to ensure your vehicle is clean and ready to tackle the warmer months. 

Before you start on a deep cleanse of your vehicle, you should begin by removing all of the unnecessary clutter that you don’t need in your car. This can include rubbish and general waste, toys if you’re a parent and any other items that have accumulated over the winter months. Use a black bin bag to collect all of the rubbish and put any items that should be in the house back where they belong so you’re ready to properly begin spring cleaning your vehicle. 

Next, you'll want to give your car a deep clean. 

If you have fabric seats, now is the time to give them a thorough cleaning so you can fully enjoy them throughout the rest of spring and summer. You can use a special upholstery cleaner or you can make your own cleaner by mixing equal parts water and vinegar. Use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the seats, and then use a wet and dry vacuum to suck up the moisture. For leather seats, use a leather cleaner to remove any dirt or stains. 

4. Don't forget the carpets and floor mats

The carpets in your car can get just as dirty as the seats, especially if you live in an area with a lot of snow, ice and, therefore, salt on the roads. Use a carpet cleaner to remove any stains or ground-in dirt, then use a wet and dry vacuum to remove the moisture. If you have floor mats, be sure to clean them as well. Baking soda is particularly great for floor mats as it’s an odour neutraliser. However, avoid chucking your floor mats in the washing machine as it’s bound to damage the rubber backing on the carpet. 

Over time, the air vents in your car can become clogged with dust and dirt. As a result, this can reduce the effectiveness of your air conditioning and heating system, which might lead to you seeking a costly service much sooner than expected. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently clean the vents, then use compressed air to blow out any remaining debris. Repeat until there are no remnants. 

If your headlights are cloudy or yellowed, they’ll not only be less bright but you could even be hit with a fine for failing to keep them clear. 

After you've finished cleaning your car, it's important to protect the paint to avoid damage and, as a result, more unwelcome maintenance fees. Use a high-quality wax or sealant to create a barrier between your car's paint and the elements. This will help to prevent damage from UV rays, acid rain and other environmental factors which could lead to expensive touch-ups to the paintwork in the future. 

8. Check your tyre pressure and engine fluid levels

Lastly, now that the outside of your car is looking great, why not check under the bonnet to be safe? 

For a more in-depth check, see our guide to 

8 easy tips for spring cleaning your car 

 recently joined the Peak District National Park Foundation for a day of tree planting at Hordern Barn Farm to prepare the land for future climate change. 

The Peak District National Park Foundation is a charitable organisation raising funds for the conservation of the Peak District. Their vision is to preserve the park as a vibrant, colourful, and safe home for wildlife that can be enjoyed by future generations. 

Accompanied by experienced rangers, the team planted over 1,000 trees at Horden Barn Farm. The farm is typically a sheep farm but reserves some land to be restored as a natural habitat for the surrounding wildlife. After a previous unsuccessful attempt at tree planting, the area had been secured by a large wooden and wire fence. This was to protect the new trees from being eaten by deer. 

In addition to creating homes for local species, tree planting is often considered one of the best ways to fight the climate crisis. A young wood, mixed with a variety of native species, can remove over 400 tonnes of carbon from the atmosphere. In order to reach the Government’s goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2050, the UK’s woodland would need to increase from 13% of the country to at least 19%. That’s 1.5 million hectares of additional woodland. 

If you’d like to find out more about the work the Peak District National Trust is doing to preserve the Peak District National Park and how you can join the fight against climate change, you can visit their website 

Alastair Shephard

Content Writer