MOT and servicing – they often come up at the same time, especially when it’s time for your annual garage visit. But they’re not the same thing, and knowing the difference can save you money, time, and stress. Let’s break it all down: what an MOT involves, what a car service includes, and why both are essential for keeping your car road-ready. 

An MOT is a mandatory annual test that checks whether your car meets the minimum safety and environmental standards set by the Ministry of Transport. It’s a legal requirement for vehicles over three years old in the UK.

If your vehicle doesn’t pass its MOT test, you can’t legally drive it, and you could be fined up to £1,000 for doing so. MOTs are all about road safety and making sure your vehicle isn’t emitting more pollution than allowed by emissions standards.

Did you know? Nearly 10 million cars failed their MOTs in 2024 – 

An MOT checks for everything that affects a car’s safety, legality, and emissions, including:

A car service is a routine check-up that keeps your vehicle in good condition. Unlike an MOT, a service isn’t required by law, though skipping it can lead to bigger (more expensive) problems later on. 

There are different types of service, depending on your service schedule and mileage. Here’s a breakdown of what’s usually included:

These service items help maintain your car’s condition, boost reliability, and keep your car aligned with manufacturer standards. Skipping them can reduce your fuel efficiency and increase the chance of breakdowns.

MOT vs service: What’s the actual difference?

 from Bumper splits the cost of MOT and service work into manageable 0% interest instalments. 

 at one of our 5000+ partnered garages to keep your car in good condition without breaking the bank.

Yes, you do need to keep on top of all MOTs and servicing because: 

Even if your MOT passes, you might still need a service to stay ahead of wear and tear. And if you only service your car but skip the MOT, you risk driving a car that isn’t roadworthy.

If you’re unsure when you should book your next MOT or service, here’s a quick guide: 

If possible, book them together. Not only does this save time, but it can also get you a better deal on each.

Stay road-ready and stress-free with Bumper’s car repair finance

Need an MOT and service but dreading the bill? With Bumper, you can split the 

 into handy, interest-free payments. Whether it’s your annual service, MOT, or an unexpected repair, our 

 helps you stay in control and on the road. Join thousands of drivers and take the sting out of your car upkeep. 

An MOT test usually takes around 45–60 minutes if no repairs are needed. A car service can take 1–3 hours, depending on whether it’s an interim, full, or major service. If carried out together, allow half a day to complete both, especially if issues are found.

 for cars. A service varies depending on the type:

Booking both together often saves money compared to separate visits.

Yes. Electric cars still require an MOT after three years, just like petrol or diesel cars, to ensure safety and roadworthiness. While EVs don’t need oil changes or exhaust checks, they do need servicing for brakes, tyres, suspension, battery health, and software updates to keep them running safely and efficiently.

The difference between MOT and service

We are thrilled to announce we have achieved a 

 in the UK and Turkey. This recognition reflects our commitment to fostering a positive and supportive workplace, where employees feel valued and empowered to succeed. 

The Great Place to Work certification is a rigorous evaluation of a company's culture and employee feedback. It measures various aspects of workplace culture, including trust, credibility, respect, fairness, pride, and camaraderie. Also included in the list are top brands, Experian, Hilton, and Adobe. 

Laura Chapman, Head of People at Bumper, commented, “The Great Place to Work certification is not only a significant achievement for Bumper, but also serves as a competitive advantage in attracting top talent. In today's competitive job market, employees seek companies that share their values and prioritise their well-being. By achieving this certification, Bumper has demonstrated that they are a company that employees can trust and feel proud to be a part of."

Fostering a Positive and Supportive Workplace: Bumper Achieves A Great Place to Work Certification™  

In what has often been considered a masculine industry, it’s important to remember that women have also played an important part in the automotive industry’s rich history of innovation. To celebrate International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating 5 female inspirational inventors from the last 150 years. 

Bertha Benz – pioneer and inventor of the brake lining

Early one summer morning in 1888, Bertha set off to make the 65-mile journey from Mannheim to Pforzheimin, Germany in her husband’s car. The car was the world’s first and was invented by her husband Karl Benz who was convinced it wasn’t ready for the open road, but Bertha believed otherwise and believed the world was ready for a woman to set a new course. 

Running out of petrol mid-journey, Bertha was undeterred and stopped to purchase ligroin (a petroleum-based solvent) from a pharmacy in Wiesloch which is now considered the first petrol station in history. Similarly, when the engine overheated, Bertha stopped and collected water from a ditch to cool it and when the fuel line became blocked, she cleaned it with her hat pin. 

Bertha is also the inventor of the brake lining. During the trip, the brake pads became worn, so she used her garter as a temporary measure to insulate them until she was able to reach a cobbler, who she paid to cover the brake shoes in leather. 

Margaret Wilcox - inventor of the car heater

On the 28th of November 1893, Margaret Wilcox patented her solution to the often cold, open-air driving which was enjoyed by early drivers of the motor car. The solution was the world’s first in-car heating system. 

The idea of the heater was considered luxurious, even once motorcars were developed with enclosed bodywork and glass windows, but eventually, carmakers warmed to the idea. In 1929, the Ford Model A became the first vehicle to offer in-car heating. 

As well as this being a turning point in history (because quite frankly, who wants to forgo in-car heating during winter months?) this was a turning point for Margaret herself. This was the first design that had been patented in her own name rather than her husband’s, a practice which had previously been the law in the United States.

Dorothee Pullinger – engineer and inventor of the car designed for women, built by women

Having been refused entry to the Institution of Automobile Engineers on the grounds that “the word person means a man and not a woman”, Dorothee became manager of Galloway Motors, a car factory run by a female workforce that adopted the colours of the suffragettes, by the early 1920s. 

Galloway Motors had an onsite engineering college, offering women apprenticeships over the course of 3 years, as opposed to the usual 5 years for men, with the belief women were faster learners. 

With gear levers placed inside of the car rather than outside to make them easier to reach, added storage space, a smaller steering wheel and a lower dashboard, Dorothee designed and built the Galloway – the world’s first car developed specifically for women. 

Mary Anderson – inventor of the windscreen wiper

Having full-functioning windscreen wipers is an essential part of car maintenance and safety. We all know that if you don’t have decent wipers, your car will not pass its MOT, and worse, you could be placed in a dangerous situation should your visibility be decreased. This makes Mary Anderson’s story even more poignant as a woman in automotive history. 

Mary recognised the need for a windscreen wiper for assisting with clearing ice from the windscreen, to save the driver from having to open a window and chilling the cabin in the process. 

She invented a spring-loaded arm with a rubber blade which would move back and forth across the window to clear it. The design was patented in 1903 but Mary’s invention was not used in car manufacturing straight away as a wiper was considered too distracting for drivers.

Mary did not profit from the invention, which is rather frustrating considering our reliance upon this device for all vehicles on the road. 

Helen Clifford – London's first female bus mechanic

In 1983, Helen qualified as London Transport’s first female bus mechanic after completing a course at West Ham garage at the age of 18. 

Up until this pivotal moment in history, there had only been two brief periods where women were called upon to take responsibility for a so-called man’s duty in stations, depots, garages and engineering works, namely during the first and second world wars. 

Not only was Helen a bus mechanic, but also qualified as a bus driver. This role was not opened to women until 1974. 

Celebrating Women Inventors in Automotive History

If you're considering buying a car, one of the first considerations is your budget and how you'll pay for it. Should you buy a car with cash or take out car finance? And how can you 

Today, we're looking at two main types of car finance: hire purchase and PCP. 

We'll cover the PCP finance pros and cons, benefits and drawbacks of hire purchase, and how to make the decision. 

What is PCP (Personal Contract Purchase) car finance? 

PCP finances plots the car's value into monthly payments. At the end, you can keep, trade, or return it.

The monthly payments and deposit amount don’t pay off the car, though. Instead, they cover the predicted depreciation over the contract length. 

PCP can be settled with a lump sum (balloon payment) to own the car outright. Alternatively, if you’re not interested in keeping or upgrading the vehicle, you can simply return it and walk away at the end of the term.

Typically, PCP finance lasts for three to four years. But this may vary depending on your personal contract. 

Is getting a car on finance a good idea for you? Here are some of the pros and cons of PCP finance: 

PCP finance is a good option if you want to drive a new car every few years and can afford the monthly payments and deposit. 

It's important to understand the risks and terms before signing the agreement.

Hire purchase is the most straightforward way to finance a car. 

It requires you to make an initial deposit to become the ‘registered keeper’ of the car. Once complete, you make monthly payments towards the value of the vehicle. When these are finished, the finance company gives you outright ownership of the car. 

Hire purchase contracts typically range from two to five years. Is Hire Purchase a good idea? Keep reading to find out. 

Here are some of the pros and cons of Hire Purchase finance.

A Hire Purchase can be a good option if you want to own the car outright and can afford the higher upfront costs and monthly payments.

Be aware of risks like depreciation and fully understand the terms before signing.

Key differences between PCP and hire purchase

Before you make your decision, take a look at the main differences between PCP and hire purchases. 

PCP might seem cheaper at first thanks to its lower monthly payments, but it accumulates more interest than a hire purchase. Also, you may need to make a final balloon payment or cover wear and tear fees.

Hire purchase has higher monthly payments, but you own the car at the end and don’t encounter as many extra costs.

PCP vs hire purchase – which is best for you?

PCP offers flexible end-of-contract options and lower monthly payments, making it ideal if you don't want to own the car. 

With Hire Purchase, you pay a deposit and divide the remaining cost into higher monthly payments over up to five years. While you pay less interest, you own the car outright after the final payment, which is not as large as a PCP balloon payment.

Cost differences between Hire Purchase and PCP

The best way to see the cost difference between Hire Purchase and PCP is with a hypothetical situation. For example, let’s look at a £40,000 car with a 0% interest deal (possibly with PCP but not always with Hire Purchase). 

With a £10,000 deposit, and when the contract ends, the optional GMFV (Guaranteed Minimum Future Value) payment the PCP deal includes is £10,000.

This means you’ll have to pay off £30,000 in the Hire Purchase deal but only £20,000 in the PCP deal. For PCP, this is £555.55 a month or £833.33 with Hire Purchase.

But remember, at the end of the Hire Purchase deal, you own the car — but in the PCP, you won’t unless you pay the GMFV payment.

 To leave your car finance deal early, you have to have paid over 50% of the loan agreement off (including fees and interest). 

Ending your contract early is rarely advantageous unless you desperately need to.

You can also use a personal bank loan to finance a car.

Your ability to use a personal loan for a car depends on your credit limit, score, and the vehicle's cost. Consider fees and interest, as even 0% offers have expiration dates.

Car finance has pros and cons, and it will come down to your personal situation.

Buying a car on finance – what are the basic steps?

Ready to move forward? Here are the basic steps you can take to buy a car on finance.

Buying a car on finance spreads the financial load and keeps your savings intact, but you must find the right deal for your finances. Take time to explore the PCP and Hire Purchase pros and cons before making the big decision. 

Car replacement costs can be higher than expected and poorly timed, and that’s where Bumper comes in.

Split the cost of expensive car repairs into interest-free monthly repayments and find a reliable repairer in your area. 

Car Budgeting: Is Car Finance A Good Idea?

Spark plug replacement costs in the UK can range from £50 to £300. 

These plugs help start your car by creating little sparks that ignite the fuel in the engine, making the car run. They’re a vital part of the vehicle, so don’t leave repairs up to guesswork! 

Discover everything you need to know about spark plug replacement costs, including when to change them and what it will cost to buy and have them installed.

How much does a spark plug replacement cost?

On average, a complete spark plug replacement in the UK costs between £50 and £300, depending on the type of vehicle and the number of spark plugs required. 

The cost of a spark plug replacement comes down to the type and model of your vehicle. Luxury vehicles may require more expensive parts than standard models, while certain older cars may require specialised tools or engines for repair. 

Here's an idea of average costs in the UK for spark plugs for different cars and makes.

Spark plug replacement costs by make and model

Spark plug replacement costs can vary significantly depending on your car’s make and model. 

To give you a clear idea, here’s a guide to typical prices for popular vehicles in the UK. These may differ depending on your region and your car’s condition.

Labour costs associated with replacing spark plugs can also vary depending on how long it takes a mechanic to complete the job. Some jobs might take longer due to difficult-to-reach locations in some engine compartments or tight spaces between components. 

Beyond car makes and labour costs, advancements in vehicle technology, such as direct injection systems, can make spark plugs harder to access, potentially increasing labour time and costs. 

Additionally, the choice of spark plug brand and type can influence both parts and installation expenses.

If you’re worried about the costs of an expensive spark plug change, 

 can split these costs into interest-free repayments.

Spark plugs create sparks that ignite the air-fuel mixture in your engine, producing the explosions that power your car.

It goes without saying that they’re essential for starting your vehicle and keeping it running efficiently, so it’s important to keep them in good condition.

Most cars have between four and eight spark plugs, typically one per cylinder, with the exact number depending on the vehicle’s size and engine type. 

Electric cars, however, don’t need spark plugs at all, as their motors are powered entirely by batteries.

Most modern cars need their spark plugs replaced every 20,000–40,000 miles, or roughly every three years. 

Worn plugs can hurt performance and fuel economy, so check your owner’s manual or ask a mechanic if you’re unsure when to replace them.

Over time, spark plugs wear out due to age, heat, and vibration caused by the engine's operation over a prolonged period. 

To help your spark plugs last longer, adhere to your vehicle’s recommended service schedule, use the correct type of spark plugs for your car, and avoid harsh driving habits such as frequent rapid acceleration. 

Regular engine maintenance, such as checking ignition coils and keeping the engine clean, can also prevent excessive wear.

How do you know if your spark plugs need changing?

If you notice any of the following symptoms in your car, then your spark plugs might need changing: 

A faulty spark plug may cause your engine to misfire, which produces a stuttering, popping, or knocking sound. 

If you have a bad spark plug, you might also notice rough idling or unusual engine noises, especially when starting the car or driving at low speeds.

A good rule of thumb is to get your car checked whenever it starts making unusual sounds.

When spark plugs go bad, they can cause a variety of issues with your vehicle's performance. 

If a bad spark plug is not replaced, it can lead to further engine damage, which can mean very expensive repairs, such as:

Yes! Replacing your spark plugs comes with three main benefits:

It’s a simple, low-cost service that keeps your car running smoothly and helps prevent costly repairs down the line

No, when replacing spark plugs, it’s best to change the full set at once. 

Replacing them individually or one at a time can affect your engine’s balance and performance, so it’s not worth the risk.

What happens if you don't replace spark plugs?

If you don’t replace worn spark plugs, your engine may struggle to start or misfire more often. It may also generally lose power. These misfires put extra strain on engine components, such as the pistons and valves, causing them to wear out more quickly. 

You’ll also notice reduced fuel efficiency and higher emissions as the engine works harder to compensate. Over time, ignoring old spark plugs can lead to costly and potentially serious engine damage.

Replacing your own spark plugs is generally not recommended unless you are an experienced mechanic. 

However, if you choose to do it yourself, make sure you take all necessary safety precautions and follow the steps outlined in your vehicle's manual.

It can be tempting to replace your own spark plugs to save money and for convenience, but the task requires skill and knowledge. Doing it incorrectly could cause engine damage or even result in injury.

If you’re unsure, don’t attempt the repair!

Will new spark plugs make my car run better?

New spark plugs won’t automatically make your car run better if there are other problems, but they can boost engine performance and fuel efficiency if your old ones are worn or damaged. 

Other ways to keep your car performing well include keeping your tyres properly inflated and sticking to regular oil changes. Never skip your scheduled services!

Will replacing spark plugs improve acceleration?

Yes and no. Replacing worn or damaged spark plugs can help restore engine efficiency, which may improve acceleration. 

However, new spark plugs won’t increase speed beyond your car’s capabilities. They simply ensure the engine runs smoothly and responds better when you press the accelerator.

You can technically drive with a faulty spark plug, but it’s not recommended.

A bad plug can cause misfires and reduced engine power and put extra strain on the vehicle, potentially leading to costly repairs or danger on the road if left unaddressed.

Spark plug replacement is an important part of routine car maintenance that can boost engine performance and improve fuel efficiency. It also helps to prevent costly repairs down the line.

So, although the spark plug replacement cost can sometimes be off-putting, it’s worth facing to save your wallet stress in the future!

A repair fee is the last thing you want to have to deal with, but essential parts like spark plugs are key for a safe drive.

you can split the cost of repairs into monthly payments at no extra cost. 

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

How Much Does A Spark Plug Replacement Cost?

Wie viel kostet ein Zündkerzenwechsel?

We are pleased to announce Bumper has ranked 30

 in the Fintech category in the Financial Times' list of the fastest-growing companies in Europe, with an overall ranking of 466

The list, based on revenue growth over the past three years, up to 2021, sees Bumper as only one of 125 companies to have ranked consecutively in the last three years, further reinforcing its position as a leader in the Buy Now Pay Later space. 

Bumper’s growth has been achieved by our innovative approach to payment solutions for the automotive aftersales industry. We’re extremely proud to have secured our ranking among the fastest growing companies in Europe and believe this to be a sign of the success to come. 

Bumper Ranks in FT1000 Fastest Growing Companies For 3rd Year

Bumper se integra a la lista FT1000 de empresas europeas de más rápido crecimiento por tercer año

Alternator replacement costs in the UK range from £250 to £750. If your engine won’t start or you have a 

 your alternator may need replacing. This guide covers everything you need to know.

From the average labour and parts cost to finding a suitable garage, you’ll find answers to all common alternator replacement queries. Scroll down to learn more now. 

How much does an alternator cost? Complete alternator replacement cost guide

The average cost of a new alternator is between £250 and £750, with the average price being around £525.

The cost to replace an alternator depends on the car model and make, then the labour cost to replace the alternator in the UK. It works out at, on average, £150 to £250 pounds for the mechanic's time. 

Average alternator costs per top 10 most popular car models

How much is an alternator for your car? See the top ten UK car model costs below. 

Average alternator costs per top 10 car manufacturers

To help give you an idea of average costs in the UK for alternators, we've rounded up different cost estimates for both 

See the table below for approximate alternator prices: 

If you're worried about an expensive car repair bill, then 

 can help split the cost with interest-free 

Alternators are one of the more expensive car parts to repair or replace. The average cost sits around £400 to £500, and it can go up depending on your car’s age, needs, make, and local garage prices. 

How long does it take to replace an alternator? 

Alternator replacement times in a reputable garage should take between

This average depends on the car, and other factors may cause the repair to be delayed. For example, other repairs may be needed, or the team might need to order specific parts.

 So, alongside asking how much is an alternator replacement, make sure you get a clear answer on replacement times.

The AA can help with alternator issues, but they can’t completely replace it on the roadside.

If called, the AA can offer temporary assistance, such as jump-starting your car to help you get on the move again. However, if your alternator is dead and needs a full replacement, they will help tow you to a nearby garage for repairs.

On average, alternators last between 80,000 to 150,000 miles. The distance ultimately depends on factors such as driving conditions and the quality of the alternator.

Harsh weather or high temperatures can reduce an alternator’s life, and lower-quality parts won’t last as long as sturdy alternatives. Likewise, regular driving and many short trips can stress the alternator more, leading to a smaller lifespan.

An alternator is an electrical device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy in an internal combustion 

. It is typically found in cars, trucks, and other vehicles. 

Don't worry if you're not 100% sure what an alternator does. Many only discover this part when it needs repairing. 

The alternator is powered by a belt connected to the car engine, creating an alternating current of electricity when it spins. The electricity from the alternating current is then used to charge the car's battery and power the car's electrical system. 

Can I carry out the alternator replacement myself?

No. It's best to leave alternator replacements to a qualified mechanic. While replacing an alternator yourself is possible, it is a complicated job requiring specialist tools.

You might save money on labour costs, but the risks don't outweigh the benefits. You need special tools for a start, and then, on top of all the expert mechanical knowledge needed, you might damage other components, making it more expensive in the long run! 

What are the symptoms of a failing alternator? 

Are you unsure if your alternator is failing? We’ve gathered the top signs that you need a repair to help you determine what’s going on with your vehicle. 

Symptoms of a failing alternator include: 

If your car is experiencing any of the symptoms of a failing alternator, it is recommended to have your alternator checked by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.

The decision to repair or replace your alternator requires careful consideration. Replacing an alternator can be expensive, and many drivers, understandably, want to save money where possible.

However, if you are mechanically inclined and have the right tools, you may be able to save some money by replacing the alternator yourself. 

Please only attempt this if you are very experienced with cars.

On the other hand, if it’s a relatively new car with a complex electrical system, it may be better to leave it to professionals. 

Ultimately, whether it is worth fixing your alternator really depends on how much money you have available and how comfortable you are tackling such a job yourself.

No. We don't recommend driving a car with a faulty alternator, as it can damage

 other components and even lead to further damage

 to the engine due to a lack of power. This will leave you with higher repair costs and an unsafe vehicle.

A faulty alternator can cause various electrical issues within the car, which might not have caused such a problem thirty years ago. Still, most cars rely on electricity and computer components to run smoothly.

What’s more, a faulty alternator won’t be able to keep your car’s battery charged sufficiently, which can cause your fuel injectors to fail and your engine to stall.

A quick Google search can help you find a reputable garage for alternator repairs. However, always look at genuine customer reviews and shop around for different prices before deciding on one garage.

You can also ask friends and family for word-of-mouth recommendations. This can help you find garages that provide good experiences without wading through pages of internet marketing. 

also has a handy search tool that connects you with verified local garages. To get started, enter your vehicle registration on our homepage. 

Alastair Shephard

Content Writer