Bumper has today announced a series of dealership groups now live on Bumper Pro, the UK’s first payments orchestration platform built for automotive, including Riverside Motor Group.

Amongst the first dealerships to go live on Bumper Pro, Riverside has rolled out the platform across its nine sites in northern England. Since its initial installation in July, Bumper Pro has already saved Riverside over £43,800 in costs, principally in card processing fees – the equivalent of over £100,000 annually.

The motor group joins a number of dealerships up and down the country going live with Bumper Pro, including Eastbourne Motoring Co; Northern Ireland-based Browne & Day Ford; Westdrive Kia & Mazda; Broad Oak Motor Group; and Shelly Motors Kia. All have integrated Bumper Pro with the Pinewood.AI dealer management system.

The Bumper Pro platform enables dealerships to combine in-store and online payments into a single platform, simplifying payment management and lowering costs. 

It opens up new ways for customers to pay, with access to Bumper’s full suite of payments services – from PayLater to Pay by Bank, Pay by Card, and Bumper’s innovative payment terminal, PayPad.

Bumper Pro also gives dealerships the opportunity to save thousands in transaction fees with intelligent payment routing, which presents customers with a preferred payment method - optimised to balance an enhanced customer experience with the retailer's available payment channels.

The platform automatically reconciles payments in Keyloop and Pinewood.AI, to reduce manual workload.

Andrew Jackson, Operations Director at Riverside Motor Group

, said: “Bumper Pro has had a major impact on our operational efficiency, whilst driving huge savings across our dealerships. Automatically reconciled payments within Pinewood saves our team heaps of time, completely eliminating what was a previously laborious process.

“Pro has also had a positive impact on our customers. With every payment option connected seamlessly through our Bumper account, DMS and the Bumper PayPads, our drivers are given the ultimate flexible payment experience consumers have come to expect.”

, said: “We are excited to welcome Riverside alongside such a wide range of UK dealerships to the Bumper Pro platform. We built Bumper Pro to streamline dealerships’ payments systems and we’re thrilled with the impact we are already having on our partners’ businesses, simplifying payments and lowering costs for dealerships at a time when operational efficiency is critical.”

Riverside rolls out Bumper Pro platform and sees substantial savings

Love them or loathe them, it's that time of year when Christmas songs are inescapable. In the shops, in supermarkets and, of course, all over your car's radio.

So, with so many listens under your belt, you would think you'd be an expert in these festive tunes. Why not test your knowledge now with our Christmas driving song quiz?

All you need to do is guess which song the lyric comes from. Let's play!

1. “It's the time that every Santa has a ball”

2. "They're singing Deck the Halls, but it's not like Christmas at all"

3. "So we'll lie by the fire 'til the sleep simply melts them all away"

4. "So this is Christmas, and what have you done?"

5. "The rivers and the hills. The forests and the streams"

 6. “Me? I guess I was a shoulder to cry on”

7. "I sing this song to pass the time away"

8. “And the sound of children's laughter fills the air”

 9. “Can't make it all alone, I've built my dreams around you”

I touch your face while you are sleeping”

Quiz: How many of these Christmas driving songs do you know?

Experts have revealed a common mistake drivers make at the pump that could be costing them £100s every year.

This simple error could happen to any driver when filling up their vehicle with petrol or diesel at the garage.

Now, motoring experts have revealed that continuing to hold down the trigger after you've heard the click could likely cause the fuel to overflow or evaporate.

It is estimated that wasting around 1 litre every week could equate to around £50-£60 per year. For drivers filling up their vehicles more frequently, this number is likely to rise even further.

The experts also revealed that any excess fuel will often spill into the car's vapour recovery system, a part designed to capture harmful fuels.

Damage to this system could land drivers with a repair bill anywhere between £150 and £500.

Motorists regularly topping off after the click could be out of pocket by £200 to £300 in fuel costs and repairs.

The specialists also revealed that although drivers may think they're squeezing out every last penny, continuing to press the trigger after the click only results in wasted fuel or damage to the driver's vehicle.

To protect your vehicle and your wallet, the best advice is to stop immediately when you hear the click to avoid wasting fuel and potentially causing damage to your vehicle.

Common mistake at the pump that could be costing drivers £100s every year

Seguir repostando después del clic solo te hace gastar más dinero

Clutch fluid repairs can cost between £80 and £250 for UK drivers.

Don’t put this fix off, as clutch fluid plays a crucial role in the smooth operation of your vehicle’s clutch system. Without it, gear changes can become stiff or unresponsive, and driving can quickly turn unsafe. 

Like any hydraulic fluid, clutch fluid can leak over time, leading to a host of issues that require prompt attention. Here’s what you need to know about clutch fluid repairs.

How much is a clutch fluid leak repair cost in the UK?

Repairing a clutch fluid leak in the UK usually costs between £80 and £250, depending on the location of the leak, the type of car, and whether any other car parts need replacing. These figures don’t cover additional repair costs.

Minor leaks from hoses or seals tend to be at the lower end of this range, while leaks from the master or slave cylinder can be more expensive due to labour intensity.

If you’re facing a clutch fluid repair cost, you can use 

 to split the bill into interest-free repayments.

Clutch fluid repair costs vs clutch replacement costs

Repairing a leak is generally much cheaper than replacing the entire clutch system. 

A full clutch replacement can cost anywhere between £400 and £1,200 in the UK, including parts and labour.

Fixing the fluid leak early can prevent further damage to the clutch mechanism, saving both time and money. 

Leaks often start small but can worsen over time, potentially affecting the clutch’s performance and safety.

Clutch fluid leaks can develop for several reasons:

How do you know if you need a clutch fluid change?

Clutch fluid should be changed when it becomes dirty or contaminated, typically every 2–3 years or according to the manufacturer’s schedule. 

If you notice a drop in fluid levels or a change in fluid colour, it’s a strong indication that it’s time for a replacement.

Detecting a clutch fluid leak early can save you from a full clutch failure. Alongside the signs above, you should look out for the following indicators:

How long does a clutch fluid leak repair take?

The repair time depends on the source of the leak.

Minor hose replacements or resealing can be completed in under an hour, while leaks from the master or slave cylinder may take 2 to 3 hours, including bleeding the system to remove air.

How often should you change your clutch fluid?

Generally, clutch fluid should be replaced every 2 to 3 years.

However, the recommended time for your car will depend on driving conditions and manufacturer recommendations. Old or contaminated fluid can corrode the hydraulic components and reduce clutch responsiveness.

If you suspect a clutch leak, you should follow the following steps:

Notice any drips or cracks? It’s time to call the mechanic or dealership.

The clutch fluid reservoir is typically located near the brake fluid reservoir under the bonnet, often labelled clearly.

In some vehicles, it may be integrated with the brake system, so always consult your owner’s manual if unsure.

Driving with a leaking clutch is risky. If you suspect a leak, it’s best to stop driving and have the issue repaired immediately.

Low fluid levels can lead to complete clutch failure, making it impossible to change gears and potentially causing damage to the transmission.

However, you can reduce the risk of surprise clutch fluid problems by taking a few simple preventative steps:

Is it worth repairing a clutch fluid leak?

Yes, you should always repair a clutch leak as soon as possible. 

Repairing a leak is far cheaper than replacing the clutch or transmission components damaged by running low fluid. Prompt repairs maintain safe operation and extend the life of your clutch system.

Are brake fluid and clutch fluid the same?

Most vehicles use the same type of hydraulic fluid for both clutch and brake systems, usually DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

However, it’s important to check your owner’s manual before topping up, as using the wrong fluid can damage seals and components.

Clutch fluid leaks are common but manageable if detected early. Don’t put off your regular inspections and remember your fluid changes; not only do they reduce costs, but also ensure your vehicle remains safe and reliable. 

Lastly, acting quickly can save hundreds in repair costs and prevent major clutch or transmission damage. This is your sign to book your car in!

Get your clutch fluid leak repair sorted as soon as possible. Use a 

 to split the repair fees into interest-free repayments.

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

Clutch Fluid Leak Repair Cost in the UK

The average oil pump repair cost sits between £500 to £1,000 for UK drivers. 

Every car part, even your oil pump, will wear out and eventually need replacing. However, it should still last a long time. 

The oil pump in your car moves oil around and inside the engine channels. This is essential, as it lubricates bearings, pistons, and camshafts, and also cools the engine.

It’s the heart of the car’s lubrication system, making sure nothing grinds or seizes. Here's everything you need to know about oil pump repair costs.

On average in the UK, an oil pump repair costs around £500 to £1,000. 

Minor fixes may be slightly cheaper, while more complex replacements on high-performance or hard-to-access engines can exceed £1,000. You can always use a 

 from Bumper to split the cost of a repair into interest-free repayments.

Here are some examples of popular UK car makes and average oil pump costs:

Knowing the signs and costs of an oil pump problem will help you act in time and avoid even bigger problems with your car.

Alongside the average costs above, consider the the following:

An oil pump repair takes most mechanics 4 to 8 hours, depending on the complexity of the job. 

During the oil pump repair, your mechanics will:

5 signs you might need an oil pump repair

If your oil pressure is lowering, it might be a symptom that your oil pump needs to be replaced. 

Unlike other car parts, you can't see the oil pump. However, you can look out for these signs:

Will the check engine light come on if the oil pump is Bad?

Yes. If the oil pump is bad, then the check engine light will turn on.

This is because the bad oil pump will cause high or low oil pressure in the engine. Depending on the brand and year of make, the light could be orange or red.

Preventing oil pump problems in your car is the best way to go if you don't want to spend anything on oil pump repair costs down the road. 

You can prevent oil pump problems by following these steps:

Yes and no! Whether it's worth fixing an oil pump generally depends on your vehicle, its age, condition, and problems.

If the vehicle is in good condition and the oil pump is the only issue, then it’s worth fixing the old pump. Even if your oil pressure suddenly drops and your engine overheats, fixing it is cheaper than a full engine replacement.

An oil pump might not be worth fixing if there is significant engine damage, the repair cost exceeds the car's value, or if there are numerous other problems.

No. You should never drive if you have a bad oil pump.

A pump that is not working will not give enough oil to the engine, which can then grind and seize. Plus, the damage could affect the bearings and cause overheating of the engine and potential permanent damage. 

If you notice any issues, stop the car immediately and call a mechanic!

An oil leak will eventually cause an MOT failure.

An oil pool larger than 75 millimetres in diameter that appears within 5 minutes is a concerning factor. Smaller leaks may not cause failure but might cause different problems.

In the end, your oil pump is a key element of your lubrication system and will have a huge effect on the safety of your car. So, if you think you need an oil pump repair, don’t put the service off!

 to split the cost of an oil pump repair into interest-free repayments.

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

How Much is an Oil Pump Repair Cost in the UK?

These days, most Brits can’t imagine driving without car sensors. The average cost of a car sensor repair is £76.

From monitoring engine performance to helping you park, car sensors ensure your vehicle operates at its best. But when one fails, it can cause performance issues or even an MOT failure. 

Here’s what you need to know about car sensor repair costs and when it’s time to get them checked.

The average car sensor repair cost sits at £76. However, this figure isn’t always reliable. It doesn’t take into account the type of sensor you need. 

The cost of repairing or replacing a sensor can vary dramatically depending on the type of sensor and even the make of your car.

Here’s a breakdown of average car sensor repair costs in the UK:

 to split repairs into interest-free repayments with Bumper.

Some makes and models are more expensive to repair due to labour costs or complex sensor design. 

Below are average car sensor repair quotes by vehicle make in the UK:

Most car sensor repairs or replacements take between 30 minutes and two hours.

Simple jobs, like replacing a parking or oxygen sensor, are usually completed within an hour. 

However, more complex sensors, such as those linked to the engine control unit (ECU), may require diagnostic testing and calibration, thereby extending repair time.

Car sensors are designed to last several years, often 

, depending on the sensor type and driving conditions. 

However, as with any car part, exposure to dirt, water, and vibration can shorten their lifespan. 

Regular servicing helps identify faulty sensors early before they cause major issues. Don’t forget to book your car in!

Car sensors measure various aspects of your vehicle’s performance, including temperature, pressure, distance, and airflow. 

They send real-time data to the car’s ECU, which adjusts systems like fuel injection, braking, and even parking assistance. 

When a sensor malfunctions, your car may trigger a warning light or perform less efficiently. If you notice poor driving performance, you should always check your car or get a professional opinion.

Modern cars contain dozens of sensors, each serving a specific purpose. Knowing which sensor needs to be replaced helps you predict a more accurate repair cost.

When a sensor begins to fail, your vehicle will usually give you a few hints. 

Sure, it’s not pleasant to notice your car is acting differently. But if you notice any of the signs below, don’t dig your head in the sand! For your safety and wallet, get your car checked.

How can you tell if a parking sensor is bad?

If your parking sensor is faulty, you may notice a constant beep or no beep at all.

You may also see an error message on your dashboard. Some vehicles show a visual alert when the system can’t detect one or more sensors. 

You can test by gently cleaning the parking sensors, as dirt and grime are common culprits. You’ll find the sensors near your car’s bumper. Or schedule a diagnostic scan performed by a garage.

What causes car parking sensors to break?

Parking sensors are exposed to the elements, as they sit on your car’s bumper.

Some car sensors can be reset manually, while others need diagnostic tools. So, first you need to identify which sensor is faulty. 

Common reset methods include disconnecting the battery for 10–15 minutes for simple systems, using onboard settings in the infotainment menu, or having a professional diagnostic reset performed at a garage using OBD equipment. 

Always check your owner’s manual before attempting a reset, as incorrect handling can cause further faults.

A faulty parking or temperature sensor might only affect convenience, while a brake or MAF sensor could impact performance and safety.

If a warning light is on, it’s best to get the issue checked promptly to avoid further damage or MOT failure.

While they can be easy to forget when driving, car sensors are vital for safety. However, they do wear out over time. Knowing the average car sensor repair costs and common signs of failure can help you act early and avoid bigger bills later.

Avoid big car sensor repair bills by using a Bumper 

 to split the cost into manageable repayments.

Car Sensor Repair Costs in the UK

Are you topping up your oil more frequently? It might be a sign that your car is burning oil faster than usual. 

Typical car burning oil repair costs go from £100 for simple fixes, right up to £800 to £2,000+ for major engine work.

There are a few common reasons behind excess oil usage, and we’ll explain these and the potential costs for your car in the article below. 

How much does it cost to repair a car that’s burning oil?

Fixing a car that’s burning oil can be a quick, inexpensive job under £200 for UK drivers.

However, it could also be a few hundred pounds for worn seals or gaskets, or a serious, pricier engine repair costing £800 to over £2,000.

 to spit the costs into interest-free repayments. 

Here are the common issues and respective costs associated with this problem: 

Factors that affect repair burning oil costs

Depending on which part is damaged, car burning oil repair costs vary. 

There are simple fixes like seals or gaskets that are cheap, but there could also be internal engine work that needs to be done. 

Key factors that influence the price include:

How long does a car burning oil repair take?

This repair can take between 1 hour and several days. If it’s a simple fix like a leaking seal, that’s going to take a short amount of time. 

If your car's burning oil repair is a bigger one, like replacing parts of the engine, it can take a few working days. 

When a car is burning oil, it signals that something inside the engine isn’t working or sealing as it should. 

Piston rings wear out because they seal the gap between the pistons and cylinders. 

If this is the case, blue smoke will appear when turning the car on.

In older engines, valves can crack due to wear and allow oil to drip out.

PCV (Positive Crankcase Ventilation) valves could also be the culprit. This is an engine pressure problem causing oil to go into the wrong places.

High-mileage engines can have worn cylinder walls, which allows oil to pass into the combustion chamber. This is a serious repair and often costly.

As engines age, internal components loosen and seals lose efficiency, making oil burning more likely.

Oil that’s too thin can slip past seals more easily. Always use the grade recommended for your vehicle to keep the engine healthy.

Sometimes, people think that burning oil is normal and to be expected with age and usage, but it can also be a very serious car problem. 

Here’s a quick checklist of reasons for burning oil:

Typical burning oil repairs and what they involve

Your mechanic may suggest one of the following repairs:

The PCV system may need the valve or hoses replaced. This helps control oil pressure and prevents excess oil from entering the engine.

Worn valve seals allow oil to leak into the combustion chamber. This repair involves removing parts from the top of the engine and fitting new seals to stop the leaks.

If the pistons or piston rings are worn, the engine may need to be opened to replace them. 

This is a labour-intensive repair, but essential for restoring proper compression and stopping oil burning.

In turbocharged cars, worn turbo seals can cause oil to enter the intake. Rebuilding or replacing the turbo restores proper function and prevents oil burning.

Older cars often suffer from hardened or cracked gaskets. Replacing them ensures a proper seal and stops oil leaks that can lead to burning.

Suspect that your car is burning too much oil? Here are some signs to look out for:

Is it worth fixing a car that is burning oil?

Yes, a car that is only burning oil is worth fixing. If only a gasket or seal needs to be changed, then it’s worth fixing.

On the other hand, if you have an old engine and a car that is not worth a lot, it might not be worth it. A mechanic can help you decide.

Ways to prevent your car from burning oil

It’s better to prevent your car from burning oil up instead of making fixes down the road. 

Here’s what you can do to prevent issues:

Can you drive if your car is burning oil?

Yes, you can drive your car if it’s burning oil. However, it’s not recommended.

You need to keep the oil topped up to avoid running the engine dry, which can cause serious damage. 

Driving without addressing the issue risks further engine wear and more expensive repairs, so it’s best to get it checked as soon as possible.

Burning oil’s impact on MOT and emissions

Burning oil will impact both your MOT and emission output. 

Excessive oil burning often produces blue smoke from the exhaust, which can cause an MOT failure.

Light oil burning might not fail the test, but it will still increase emissions and should be addressed promptly.

Yes, even light oil burning will damage the engine eventually, as it wears the engine out. Even low oil burns cause extra heat inside the engine and can lead to the engine seizing.

Burning oil is a common problem, especially for older cars. Still, this doesn’t mean the end of your car's life cycle. 

Most of these fixes are quick and easy to book. Don’t put them off or you might face significant repairs down the road!

No matter the cause of your car’s oil problem, you can use a Bumper 

Alastair Shephard

Content Writer