The average used car driver spends around £1,300 a year on repairs and maintenance.

Most spend £30–£35 monthly at the garage and about £65–£68 on fuel, which has risen 20% since the cost of living crisis. Costs can be much higher for unlucky drivers or for more premium used cars. 

In this blog, we break down average repair costs and share tips to keep your used car in top condition.

Average repair costs for used cars by brand

When something goes wrong with your car, it can be good to check what the typical prices are for fixing problems on your specific make and model. This helps both with budgeting, and ensuring you’re not getting overcharged when visiting a garage. 

Below are some average car repair costs, listed by brand and most common repair types. Bookmark this page so you don’t lose them.

Luckily, you can make surprise bills less likely. There are 

 options that you can turn to if you want to split the cost into interest-free repayments. However, regular upkeep of your used car is the best way forward. 

Yes, in many cases, older cars are cheaper to repair. 

New vehicles need costly dealer tools and access to proprietary data, while parts for older models are generally easier and cheaper to source.

If your car is very old or no longer in production, parts can be hard to find, which pushes up repair costs. On the other hand, older cars with readily available parts and workshop guides are cheaper to fix. Keep this in mind when considering average repair costs. 

Another reason older cars are often cheaper to maintain is that main dealer garages typically charge £100+ per hour, meaning even a simple oil change can cost over £100 before parts.

Yes, some used cars are covered by warranties. 

If your used car still has some time left on the original manufacturer's warranty, you'll still be on their standard maintenance packages and cover schedule. 

However, the warranty has already expired for most used car owners, so you have to pay for each service and part individually. 

Do I have the right to return a used car? 

Yes, you have the right to return a used car. 

, you can return something faulty and secure a full refund within 30 days of purchase. 

The Act states the car must be “as described,” “fit for purpose,” and “satisfactory quality.”But don’t assume that you can return it for a new model. The Act takes into account the used car’s age and mileage.

Where is the best place to buy a used car? 

The safest way to buy a used car is through a dealer, especially via approved used schemes that often include 30-day return guarantees. 

Check the fine print, though, as some schemes offer an exchange rather than a refund. Options and conditions vary between retailers, so always take your time to research before you buy.

When is it not worth it to repair a used car? 

Buying a new car usually makes sense when repair costs start to exceed your current car’s value, often after years of use or if parts are hard to find. You might also consider a new car if yours is written off or needs a major, expensive repair. 

There’s no hard rule for trading in a used car — it also depends on your personal attachment and your budget.

What costs the most to fix on a used car?

Major engine repairs, transmission replacements, and turbo or hybrid system fixes usually cost the most to repair on a used car — or any car in general.

The exceptions are with luxury and premium car repairs. These drive higher costs due to expensive parts and specialist labour required for complex repairs.

Which used car parts have the highest value?

Engine components, transmissions, turbochargers, and hybrid or electric system parts are the priciest to replace in used cars.

Outside of those, brake systems, suspension components, and body panels also add up, especially on premium or imported cars with higher labour and parts costs. 

Regular maintenance is the main way to prevent these expensive repairs from piling up.

Typically, keeping a vehicle for 8–12 years is reasonable, but selling or upgrading sooner may make sense if repair costs exceed the car’s value or reliability declines.

As with any time or cost-related questions, the ideal car lifespan depends on mileage, maintenance history, and your total repair costs. Compare these costs to the price of a new car to know for sure.

6 ways to save money on car maintenance costs 

1. Keep up with the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule 

Even if your used car is out of warranty, it’s worth following the manufacturer’s service schedule. 

Delaying maintenance may save money short-term, but minor issues can quickly become costly repairs.

On average, UK drivers spend around £60 a year on car washes.

Regularly cleaning your used car, including the underside, prevents grime from affecting moving parts and helps protect paint, glass, and mirrors. 

: The average car’s lifespan is seven to eight years. If you wash your car at home, you could save £800 from your maintenance costs. 

Getting more life from your used car is often as simple as driving with care. 

Avoid resting your foot on the clutch after gear changes, steer clear of potholes, and brake gently. These habits reduce stress on the clutch, transmission, suspension, tyres, and brakes. 

Over time, careful driving prevents premature wear, keeps components running smoothly, and helps you avoid expensive repairs, ensuring your used car remains reliable and safe for longer.

Electric vehicles are increasing in popularity, so there’s also a growing market for used EVs, and lower repair costs are part of the attraction. 

Alongside being more sustainable, EVs are rightly hailed for being cheaper to maintain. Their motors contain fewer moving parts, and perhaps most importantly, charging an electric vehicle is significantly cheaper than filling a tank with diesel or petrol.

The latest industry research shows that electric cars are about 25% cheaper to maintain than cars with a traditional petrol-fired internal combustion engine. On average, that equates to savings of about £300 annually. Nice. 

Following on from point four, electric cars have far fewer moving parts than petrol or diesel vehicles, making them simpler in principle. However, repairs like bodywork or suspension often cost the same.

Servicing is easier, with only 2–3 systems needing attention compared to 10+ on combustion engine cars.

If you’re willing to sit through a few YouTube videos and learn how to handle essential car maintenance, you can save a lot of money every year by keeping your used car away from the mechanic. This goes for minor repairs like simple replacements like filters and fluid top-ups.

You're paying for parts and labour when you take your used car into a garage. In many cases, some shopping around will locate the same parts for less than the mechanic will charge you.

But don’t tamper with anything you don't understand! It’s best to contract a professional for the tough repairs.

Predicting repair costs is a necessary evil. However, we hope this guide has helped you plan for the future and navigate upcoming used car repairs. 

Understanding what is the average cost to repair a used car can help you stay prepared. So, you can use the tips in this blog to reduce future repair costs and keep your car safe on the road. Safe driving!

Bad luck can catch anyone out when it comes to used car maintenance. 

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.

What Is the Average Cost To Repair a Used Car? UK Prices

The cost-of-living crisis is having an enormous impact on the way many of us live our lives. A recent survey by 

 found that the way we drive is no exception. Of the 2,000 surveyed, 69% said they had significantly changed the way they drive since the beginning of the year. 

To make a saving on fuel costs, drivers are significantly reducing the number of journeys they make in their vehicles. 35% of drivers said they had cut down on the number of journeys they make. 

40% of petrol drivers had cut down since the start of 2022, with only 22% of electric and hybrid drivers cutting down. 

Electric and hybrid vehicles are well-known to be cheaper to run. This survey found that of the electric and hybrid owners 17% had switched from a vehicle using an internal combustion engine to keep costs down, whilst 4% had sold their vehicle without replacing it. Hybrid vehicles are built to last longer as well, so you don't have as many expensive repairs to keep up with, like 

hybrid batteries which can last up to 11 years

21% of drivers said they now drive more smoothly and try to avoid harsh braking and 14% were now driving slower than they were at the start of the year to conserve fuel. 

It was discovered 1 in 10 motorists were now regularly checking their tire pressure and 11% had taken unnecessary items from their vehicle in a bid to make it lighter on the road. 

The cost-of-living hike has had a big impact on motorists. Luckily, Bumper has a solution. Our digital PayLater solution allows customers to split the cost of repairs, at no extra cost. 

Applications are completed online in just a few clicks. Plus, our proprietary AI-enabled lending software allows us to make real-time, responsible lending decisions in less than 5 seconds. 

For more information about how Bumper can transform your customer experience, 

Motorists change driving habits due to cost of living

The dealership of the month for April 2022 goes to Lexus Edgware Road.

The win follows an outstanding month for the Jemca site using Bumper’s PayLater to allow customers to split the cost of their repair bills into monthly payments, completely interest-free. 

Team Jemca met with Bumper account manager Alex on site to deliver the award, which has had a brand-new redesign.

Starting in November last year, the team has helped hundreds of customers drive away with their repairs and finances in check. A special shoutout is necessary for Ash, who is a bit of a Bumper expert! 

Well done to Ash, Wing, Joseph, Ankit, Renaldo, and Phil. 

Join the Bumper network and get access to our digital PayLater solution, allowing customers to split the cost of their repairs into monthly instalments, completely interest-free. 

For more information on becoming a partner 

The Dealership of the Month: Jemca Edgware Road

Car repair bills often turn out to be more expensive than expected. Sometimes, other emergency bills arise before you can cover the cost of the garage.

No matter the reason, if you can repay your car repair, it can put you in an awkward situation. 

In this article, we’ll explain what happens if you can’t pay for 

your options, and whether a garage can keep your car. It’s all going to be okay — now, let’s get into it. 

Yes, a garage can keep your car if you refuse to pay.

However, be aware that under UK law, mechanics can lien your car if you don’t pay the bill in full within 30 days. 

A lien is a legal claim on property, such as a car, which must be cleared before you can take it back. You might have to leave your car in the garage until the bill is fully paid.

To avoid that happening, you might want to put part of the bill on a 

credit card or consider a dedicated auto repair loan

Yes, if you can’t afford to pay your car repair bill, check your car insurance policy.

Your insurance might cover the costs if your repairs are due to accidents, vandalism, theft, or extreme weather (e.g. 

). However, this largely depends on your policy coverage level. 

What are your car repair financing options? 

If your auto repair bill is more than you expected and you can't afford to pay it, you have some options. Here are six ways you can tackle the situation: 

If a repair estimate seems high, politely ask about cheaper options.

Garages may use less expensive parts or adjust labour costs without compromising quality.

Can a mechanic use used parts to repair my car?

Yes, using reconditioned parts or parts from a breaker can often save lots of money on repair bills. 

Certain parts, such as AC compressors, alternators, gearboxes, and more, can be bought and used online. We advise against using used safety-critical parts like brakes or steering unless professionally reconditioned.

A good way to find second-hand parts for your car is to search on places like eBay. There, you can select ‘used’ under the condition filter and often find breakers listing the exact part.

You can search for general breaking ads, such as “Ford Fiesta 2010 breaking, if there isn't a specific item”. 

These items are usually listed for a token amount - say £1.00. From this listing, contact the seller to ask if they have the required component.

Garages often hesitate to fit used parts and may refuse parts they haven’t sourced. 

Explain your situation, but note this usually voids any warranty since the parts lack a guarantee. If you’re comfortable with this, the mechanic might agree to help.

If multiple repairs are suggested, ask to prioritise the most urgent ones. Spacing out the work helps manage costs, as long as deferring doesn’t pose a safety risk.

Not all car issues need immediate repair, but minor problems can worsen over time. Ask your mechanic if urgent repairs are needed and what might happen if they're delayed.

If the brakes, steering, suspension, exhaust, or engine are faulty, avoid driving until they're fixed. 

Paying this bill in instalments is better than not paying at all.

If you can’t clear your car’s repair bill in one go, ask the service centre if they’ll let you break it into multiple payments. 

Some garages will let you do this or may even offer their basic in-house financing for large repair jobs. 

Some garages are more expensive than others, depending on the time, tools, and expertise they have available.

If you’ve been quoted a large repair bill, gather the information the garage used to draft that quote, such as symptoms, tests conducted, etc., and phone around a few other local garages.

Can a specialist garage repair my car cheaper?

In some cases, a garage with no experience tackling your particular job may quote higher purely because they’re unsure 

Specialist garages, those that focus on your particular brand or type of car, may have much more experience and confidence and will be able to fix the problem cheaper. 

Credit cards are a simple way to cover any unexpected expense, though the interest can make an already hefty bill even bigger. 

For a big repair bill, using a credit card can work if you have a 0% APR deal and can repay quickly. Otherwise, standard interest rates will add to the cost.

In that case, the interest rate on a dedicated car repair loan might be more attractive.

In rare cases, selling your car and using the proceeds to buy a more affordable one is the most practical solution. 

When shopping for your next vehicle, take into account fuel efficiency and ongoing maintenance costs to find a cost-effective choice. 

Or check out the cheapest ways to buy a car here.

 is designed to cover unexpected car repairs, with a simple application process for quick access to funds. 

While good credit helps, specialist lenders often cater to those with poor credit, though this may mean higher fees or interest rates.

How Bumper can help if you can’t pay your repair bill

Bumper lets you split a hefty repair bill into smaller, easy-to-manage, interest-free payments. 

With one bill split every three minutes, 5,000+ partners nationwide, and a five-second response time, we’re always ready to help.

Here’s a quick step-by-step summary of the Bumper system:

The whole process takes a matter of minutes. 

Bumper lets you get the repairs you need quickly while deferring payments in easy interest-free instalments. Visit our 

 page to find out more or search for a trusted repairer near you.

What Happens If You Can't Afford Your Car Repair?

It’s been an interesting two-year stretch for the UK car industry. Shifting trends in automotive buying means this year’s list of the top 10 cars could surprise some industry observers. 

With COVID-19 upending supply chains, ongoing semiconductor shortages, and the Ukraine invasion set to disrupt production further, 2022 is hard to predict. But there are some signs of what’s to come. 

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) says that more than 174,000 cars were sold in the UK as of 1

 March 2022. That’s a 23 per cent increase over the same period last year. 

 are also on the rise, jumping 150 per cent and accounting for nearly 15 per cent of all new car sales. 

Diesel, on the other hand, looks to be on the way out. Sales sank by a whopping 45 per cent from the same period last year, accounting for just over five per cent of total sales. 

Some things have stayed the same though. The Vauxhall Corsa leads the pack again this year in terms of individual model sales, while the Kia Sportage sits in second place and the Mini Hatchback holds the third spot on the podium. 

While there’s still lots of time for things to change, here’s our list of the top 10 cars for 2022 based on the most recent figures. 

Perennial favourite Ford Focus fell out of many top 10 lists last year, disappearing from the top ten off the back of a poor reception to its Vignale version. That said, the Focus is enjoying a bit of a renaissance in early 2022 ahead of an expected design facelift in June. 

The Focus has always been a critic’s darling and the 2021 model is typically rated on par with cars like the Volkswagen Golf. 

This one’s been a regular feature on dealer forecourts since early 2018 and holds firm as a favourite with both reviewers and car buyers alike. 

It's worth noting that both the petrol and plug-in hybrid models have had a better critical reception than the XC40 ‘pure’ electric model. They're seen to offer better value for money than their EV cousin. 

Oddly enough the Toyota Corolla is only the second car on this list to be built here in Blightly. While it dropped out of the SMMT’s top ten in February, strong sales figures in January have kept it aloft for the year-to-date. 

The Corolla comes as a hybrid-only and it's been gradually finding a firm niche in the UK new car marketplace. Many reviewers have noted how much of an improvement it represents over the former Auris, which it replaced on Toyota’s 2021 roster. 

Hyundai’s new Tucson has been a top sales performer and frequent fixture in many ‘best of lists’ since it launched in 2021. The good news and sales keep coming as SMMT figures indicate a strong start to 2022. 

The Vauxhall Mokka is the first car to feature Vauxhall’s ‘Vizor’ styling. Based on strong sales for the Mokka you can expect the firm’s new look to roll out across its range over the next few years. 

The Mokka comes in standard petrol and diesel models. There’s also the all-electric Mokka-e, which numerous awards last year in the Small SUV category. 

This one's been around a long time, but Kia’s legacy brand Niro shows no signs of losing steam. Strong sales in January and February suggest that the Korean car maker is doing just fine in sustaining a reliable supply of semiconductor chips for the car’s onboard systems. 

While we expect the current Niro to come to the end of its production life soon, Niro enthusiasts can look forward to an all-new model reaching British shores in the second half of this year. 

The Puma is another top performer, but its popularity began to wane at the end of 2021 after a sales surge in the first quarter. It's a similar picture so far for 2022, with strong sales in January followed by a slight dip in February. 

Car reviewers continue to heap praise on the Puma and give it top ratings in the ‘supermini’ SUV class. 

A strong showing in the first two months of 2022 suggests the Mini hatch could keep burning up the sales charts. It finished last year ranked third overall and has started this year strongly as well. It’s also the best-selling new car that’s made in the United Kingdom. 

The Sportage fell back to second place after a slow start to the year, all but vanishing from the UK sales charts in January. Will the next round of industry figures push it back to the top, or will supply chains problems prove too much for growing consumer demand? 

Holding on to the top spot again this year is the Vauxhall Corsa, after just making it over the finishing line in 2021 due to factory supply issues. For all its sales success, motoring journalists have found the car hard to love. Reviews are typically ho-hum for both the petrol and electric versions. 

Will its mid-quarter 2022 sales figures signal more good news for the year ahead, or will the current global upheaval bring new supply chain struggles?

What Are The Top 10 Cars For 2022 

A full car service in the UK costs around £280 on average. 

To keep things running smoothly, most cars need servicing every 5,000 to 6,000 miles. Some car services are quick, others take time and cost more. 

So, how do you know what’s fair? What should a service include, and what’s the difference between interim and full?

Our expert mechanic breaks it all down. Scroll on for the full lowdown.

What is the average cost of a full car service in the UK?

The average UK annual full-car service cost is £280. However, this will differ depending on your car’s make, age, and condition. 

The age of a car is a significant factor in the price, as older cars typically require more care. Newer cars usually have fewer problems, and the manufacturer's warranty limits costs in the first few years. 

 can help you pay for car repairs in instalments in easy-to-manage monthly payments.

Car services aren’t cookie-cutter. Here’s a quick breakdown of the options and prices to help you choose the right one for your ride.

 These prices are based on UK industry averages and intended as a guide. Actual costs may vary depending on your vehicle’s make, age, condition, location, and service provider.

Another major factor influencing full car service costs is the make of your vehicle. Here are the average prices for some popular brands.

How much does a full car service cost UK?

The average UK full car service costs £280, but costs can range between £170 and £400.

Prices can vary widely depending on your car’s make, model, age, and location. Refer back to the tables above for details about what each service includes and the average costs from different car manufacturers.

What is the most expensive car to service UK?

Luxury and high-performance cars, such as BMW, Audi, and Mercedes-Benz, tend to be the most expensive to service in the UK. Their advanced technology, specialised parts, and labour costs make servicing pricier compared to standard vehicles.

Similarly, luxury brands such as Jaguar, Land Rover, and Porsche also incur higher service costs due to the complexity of their engineering and the use of premium components. It’s best to service your car with authorised dealerships to ensure high-quality work for these brands.

It’s worth budgeting extra if you own one of these brands to avoid unexpected expenses.

What are the cheapest car brands to service? 

Popular cars like the Vauxhall Corsa and Kia Sportage will typically be in the lower price range for servicing since so many of them are on the road. 

Parts are cheap and readily available, and their more straightforward design means they’re generally faster and easier to fix. 

Maintenance tips: How to save on car servicing costs

Small habits not only protect your wallet but also keep your car running smoothly, helping to avoid costly repairs and reduce servicing bills.

Try these simple tips to save money in the long run:

You can also book your service early or ask about multi-service discounts to get the best deal from your local garage.

Does engine size affect the cost of a service?

Cars with engines under two litres are usually cheaper to service.

High-performance models with larger engines and premium parts tend to cost more in both labour and components.

Is servicing an electric car more expensive?

Electric vehicles and some plug-in hybrids often require specialist servicing at higher hourly rates. 

However, with fewer fluids and moving parts, they can still be cheaper to maintain overall. The final cost depends on the type of service required.

No, most warranties do not cover routine maintenance or servicing.

If your car is still under warranty, the cost of scheduled services may be capped by the policy. To keep the warranty valid, you must follow the service schedule, as skipping it could void your cover.

Yes, paying for regular car maintenance is always worthwhile. 

Services help maintain your vehicle’s performance, prevent costly repairs, and ensure safety on the road. Keeping up with servicing can also protect your warranty and boost your car’s resale value in the long run.

Car services are essential for keeping your car in top condition, preventing costly issues, and ensuring your safety on the road. 

Hopefully, this guide has helped you understand average UK service costs and what you can expect to pay for your car’s next visit to the garage.

Last-minute repairs and services can leave you (and your wallet) feeling down. But

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

How Much Is a Car Service in the UK?

Bumper joined National Park Rangers in woodland near Calver for a unique day of volunteering. The team worked together to collect hundreds of vintage glass bottles and ceramics that were found when the site was recently cleared due to Ash Dieback Disease. It's believed that the area was on the site of an old Victorian tip.

The Team found old Heinz bottles and Bovril glasses. Items that looked of interest were sent to archaeologists for analysis.

It was important for the team to clear this glass to protect the safety of the wildlife and members of the public with four-legged friends who enjoy what the Peak District has to offer. Glass can also be a wildfire hazard as heat from the sun can cause devastating damage.

The Team was extremely efficient and filled all the containers before the proposed finished time – this was probably propelled by a meal booked in the local pub after!

Bumper is supporting the Foundation after signing up for its Peak Partner scheme, which allows businesses to care for the National Park while meeting their Corporate Social Responsibility goals.

 said: “The Peak District National Park is an incredible area, right on the doorstep of our Sheffield office.

Alastair Shephard

Content Writer