No, Bumper does not do a “hard” credit check when you apply. 

When applying for Bumper’s Buy Now Pay Later service for car maintenance, Bumper performs a “soft” credit check, which does not affect your credit score. 

However, this is just the initial search. If you accept your Bumper plan and start making repayments, these will be reported to the credit reference agency. 

If you make payments on time, this could positively affect your credit score. 

Read on to find out more about how credit checks with Bumper work: 

Yes, Bumper does a “soft” credit check when you apply for their interest-free finance product. A “hard” credit check isn’t performed. 

Soft credit checks show on your credit report but aren’t visible to other lenders. Only you can see them. 

Because other lenders can’t see them, they won’t affect other credit applications, such as a mortgage or finance to purchase a car. 

When you start making repayments towards a Bumper payment plan, repayments will be reported to the credit reference agency: 

Bumper performs a soft credit check. This is only visible on your credit report to you. 

Payments made on time or missed payments would be reported to the credit reference agency. 

How strict are Bumper’s credit checks? 

If you have a good credit history and have been regularly making repayments to other lenders on time, it is most likely that you’ll be approved. 

If you don’t have a very good credit history and you regularly miss repayments or have a history of defaults, you may not be accepted. 

However, applications are reviewed on an individual basis, and we cannot guarantee you’ll be approved. 

Why does Bumper perform a soft credit check? 

The “soft” search Bumper performs gives us a an overview of key aspects of your credit history, allowing us to make an assessment of your creditworthiness. 

As a responsible lender, we must do all we can to make sure we don’t approve anybody for credit that they might not be able to repay or could push them into financial difficulty. A soft search lets us do this. 

Does a credit check from Bumper show to other lenders? 

The soft credit check Bumper carries out when you apply doesn’t show to other lenders. 

However, if you start your plan and accept your agreement, on-time and missed payments will be reported to the credit reference agency. 

Does a credit check from Bumper show immediately? 

Bumper reports the soft credit check to the credit reference agency straight away. 

It is important to remember that a soft search only appears to you. It doesn’t show to other lenders. 

Does using Bumper improve your credit score? 

Yes, using Bumper could improve your credit score. 

Regularly making payments on time is a good way to show lenders you’re likely to meet their repayment schedule and can positively impact your credit score. 

However, missed or default payments could affect your credit score in a negative way. If you think you’re unable to make your repayments, the best thing to do is speak to Bumper straight away. 

Final thoughts – does Bumper do a hard credit check? 

Hopefully, this guide has given you all the information you need about how credit checks for Bumper’s 

No, Bumper does not perform a hard credit check. It performs a soft credit check, which only you can see. 

If you accept your credit agreement, the payments you make or miss will be reported back to the credit reference agency. 

Does Bumper do a hard credit check? 

We’re excited to announce the next Dealership of the Month as Riverside Volvo Hull. 

The Volvo site has been part of the Bumper network since 2021, using PayLater to split the cost of their customers’ bills into interest-free monthly payments. 

Now, the site is one of the latest to roll-out Bumper Pro, a complete payment solution combining every payment method – PayLater, Pay by Card, Pay by Bank and PayPad. 

Pro enables dealers to simplify payment management and reduce processing fees. 

Connecting seamlessly to Pinewood.AI, Bumper Pro has allowed Riverside Motor Group to automatically reconcile payments, saving their teams needless time spent manually matching payments. 

Intelligent payment routing has unlocked significant transaction fee savings for the group, with drivers automatically directed to a preferred payment method depending on their transaction size. 

Additionally, with multiple providers and payment types at their fingertips, Bumper Pro has equipped Riverside Volvo Hull with the necessary tools to almost eliminate the possibility of payment downtime. 

Group Operations Director, Andy Jackson, at Riverside Motor Group, said: “Bumper Pro has had a major impact on our operational efficiency. 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 to expect.” 

Riverside Volvo Hull: Transforming payment management with Bumper Pro 

Group 1 is one of the leading automotive retailer groups in the country, with a portfolio of 115 dealers across the UK. Employing over 7,000 trusted colleagues, the group represent over 21 brands, including Audi, BMW, Jaguar Land Rover, Mercedes-Benz and many more. 

The network boasts an impressive aftersales care programme, ensuring customers driving away with their new vehicles have access to expert repairs and servicing. 

Unlike urgent red work, many drivers don’t feel an immediate need to have advisory work, such as worn brake pads, ageing batteries, or minor fluid leaks, completed. 

Many perceive it as discretionary spending that doesn’t require immediate attention, especially if cash is tight. 

Trust can also be a factor, with some doubting if the work even needs to be done or even wanting a second opinion. 

Even when convinced of its importance, price can be a blocker, especially if they’re facing large bills for multiple repairs. 

When Group 1 Mercedes-Benz Coventry came to Bumper, amber sales were the biggest hurdle to achieving their ambitious targets. 

PayLater, an interest-free monthly payment solution provided by Bumper, drastically reduces friction for amber sales. 

Drivers can spread the cost of work across a number of months, allowing them to take out work that’s important there and then, without having to wait until a second visit to the dealer. 

In addition, this financial safety net gives advisors more confidence when introducing advisory work into the conversion. 

When comparing year-on-year growth for February 25, the Coventry site increased the number of completed PayLaters by 56% and, despite fewer retail jobs, they saw impressive increases in their key metrics. 

As well as improvements to key performance indicators, the site received positive customer feedback through Bumper’s Trustpilot integration, which can be accessed on all service advisor accounts for real-time customer feedback. 

One driver said, “The process for applying is easy and straightforward. I’ve used it for my 3

Another said, “Quick, easy, and helped me not murder my bank account just before I went on holiday.” 

Following the site’s successful implementation of PayLater, Stuart Johnson, Site Aftersales Director of Mercedes-Benz Coventry, said:

“Amber conversion has always been a tough metric to move, but Bumper has enabled us to give customers the payment flexibility that gets them saying yes to important advisory work.

“This has resulted in a 27% increase in our average invoice value, happier customers, and, with an easy budgeting option in their toolbelt, more confident advisors.

“To anyone looking for a solution that allows you to sell more and keep your customers coming back time and time again, I’d say give Bumper a call.” 

Group 1 Mercedes-Benz Coventry: Moving the Needle on Tough Amber Sales 

 Renewing your car insurance is a chore. However, taking your time and getting it right could save you a significant amount of money. 

The best time to renew your insurance is 28 days before it runs out. 

Many drivers simply renew at the last minute without considering timing. But this can lead to you potentially missing out on cheaper premiums. 

In this article, we’ll explore the best time to renew your car insurance, how timing affects your car insurance quotes, and other practical ways to reduce your renewal costs.

When is the cheapest time to renew car insurance?

Research shows that your renewal date can have a real impact on how much you pay. The best time to renew your car insurance is usually around 

Waiting until the last minute may not always be the most cost-effective strategy, as the data shows the costs are most expensive on the day before. 

In fact, renewing a few weeks before your policy expires can often secure lower rates.

The table below shows the average premiums at different times leading up to a policy renewal, according to 

Does time of day affect car insurance quotes?

If the day you renew makes a price difference, you might wonder if getting a quote at 9 am versus 9 pm affects the price. 

Generally, insurers base quotes on factors like your driving history, car type, and location, rather than the exact hour you request the quote. 

While some anecdotal reports suggest prices can fluctuate slightly at different times of day, the differences are usually negligible. What matters more is how far in advance of your renewal date you start shopping around (in terms of days, not hours).

How to bring car insurance renewal costs down

Aside from timing, there are several other ways to reduce your renewal premium. If you have time, use these to get a better quote on your policy.

You can also bring your car-related fees down by using 

 to split surprise repair costs into interest-free instalments.

Don’t just accept the first quote you receive. Use comparison tools and websites to find the best price for your needs. 

But always read the fine print of what’s on offer before you make a final choice!

Evaluate whether you need comprehensive cover or if simple third-party, fire, and theft might suffice. 

Look at the value of your car and how much protection you realistically need when making this choice.

Opting for a higher voluntary excess can lower your premium, though make sure you can afford to pay it in the event of a claim. If you’re unsure, it’s best not to commit to a higher excess.

Sometimes, insurers give out loyalty discounts and multi-car policies. There are even safe driver incentives that can reduce renewal costs. 

So, while you’re renewing, it’s also a good time to review your driving habits. Could you drive more safely? 

What is the 21-day rule for car insurance?

The so-called “21-day rule” refers to the guideline that insurers often allow you to renew your policy up to 21 days before your current cover ends without losing benefits such as no-claims bonuses. 

Starting your renewal process within this window ensures continuous cover while giving you some time to compare quotes and lock in a better deal.

While the 21-day rule is useful to keep in mind, the research above shows that the most cost-effective time to renew is actually around 28 days before your policy expires. Consider renewing slightly earlier than the 21-day window to secure the lowest premiums while still ensuring uninterrupted coverage.

Which comparison site is best for car insurance in the UK?

Renewing your insurance well in advance is essential, but comparison sites are an invaluable tool when comparing different car insurance deals.

In the UK, popular platforms such as MoneySuperMarket, Compare the Market, and GoCompare allow you to compare hundreds of policies from different providers quickly. 

Each site has its strengths: some offer unique discounts or cashback deals, while others provide more detailed filters to narrow down coverage options. In our opinion, it's worth checking at least two or three comparison sites to ensure you’re seeing a comprehensive range of quotes. 

Remember, not all insurers appear on every site, so relying on just one platform could mean missing out on better deals elsewhere.

Ultimately, if you want an affordable car insurance deal, you need to carefully balance timing, comparison, and careful evaluation. It’s a good rule of thumb to renew around 28 days before your policy ends, so don’t put this task off until it’s the very last second!

Expensive car insurance deals are a bummer—just like surprise repair costs.

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.

When Is the Best Time To Renew Car Insurance?

Bumper, the automotive payments platform, has announced three new senior hires to support its ambitious expansion plans. 

Fintech heavyweight Adrian Fradd has joined as Bumper’s Chief Strategy Officer, following 10 years at PayPal. He brings a wealth of experience in payments platforms and partnerships, building new global products for merchants and consumers, and growing omni-channel payment solutions at scale. 

At Bumper, Fradd will lead strategic projects, oversee Bumper’s Product team, and help the company develop its offering as a comprehensive payments platform. 

Joining Fradd on Bumper’s executive team, Kerry Turnbull has been appointed Chief Financial Officer. A former Deutsche Bank director and most recently Senior Vice President at Einride AB, Turnbull brings 16 years of investment banking and corporate finance experience to accelerate Bumper’s next stage of growth. 

At Einride, Turnbull led multiple successful capital raises, including the world’s first heavy-duty electric vehicle securitisation, and closed a Series C equity round. Turnbull’s background spans private and public markets across a diverse global investor base, while her Deutsche Bank pedigree adds strong European market expertise. She has a proven record in designing innovative financing structures, building resilient balance sheets and driving long-term value creation. 

As CFO, Turnbull will lead Bumper’s capital strategy, fundraising, operational finance, and investor relations, strengthening the company’s access to funding and supporting disciplined growth. 

Bumper is also expanding its Growth team with the addition of Annabelle Clarke as PR Manager, formerly Vice President for Media Relations at global communications firm Weber Shandwick. Annabelle brings a decade of consultancy experience in strategic corporate and consumer communications, with specialist expertise in technology and fast-growth businesses. Her former clients include Samsung, HP, eBay, Purplebricks, IKEA, Nespresso, Budweiser, Philips and Experian. 

Clarke will oversee Bumper’s media presence and positioning in the UK and Europe as the brand continues to evolve its payment offerings and expand internationally. 

James Jackson, CEO at Bumper, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Adrian, Kerry and Annabelle to the team, bringing with them rich collective experience across payments, technology, automotive and fast-growth companies. Our new colleagues join at an exciting time for Bumper, as we set our sights on rapid expansion plans both in the UK and internationally. These appointments will be instrumental in supporting Bumper’s growth in this next phase of our journey.” 

Bumper has marked a number of growth milestones in recent weeks. Last month, the company announced $11m in Series B extension investment and celebrated its 10

 anniversary with a refreshed brand identity. It also recently launched Bumper Pro, a full suite of payment tools for dealerships and OEMs. 

Bumper bolsters senior team with former PayPal and Deutsche Bank executives 

Kia, Jaguar, Peugeot – if car manufacturers love one thing, it's a good logo redesign. But with so much change underway in the motor industry, it can be tough to stay on top. 

Why not test your car brand knowledge with our free online car brand logo quiz? Get started below!

How many of these car brand logos do you know?

When your car suddenly starts squeaking, rattling, or making any other unusual engine noises, it’s usually a sign that something’s off. The good news is that strange car noises are often early warning signs, which means a timely intervention could save you from expensive repairs.

Let’s walk through nine common car noises, what might be causing them, and what to do next.

1. Why is my car making a noise when I turn?

If you hear clicking, knocking, or a grinding noise while turning your car, it’s often linked to issues with your CV joint, power steering system, or suspension components.

What should I do about a noise when turning?

If you hear clicking, knocking, or whining when turning, avoid driving long distances until it’s inspected. Check your power steering fluid level if you can, as low fluid can cause whining sounds. Clicking or clunking often points to worn CV joints or suspension parts, so have a mechanic look at it promptly to avoid further damage.

How much does suspension repair cost in the UK?

2. Why is my car making a rattling noise?

If your car is making a rattling sound while driving (or even idling), it usually means something under the bonnet or near the exhaust system is loose or worn out.

What should I do about a rattling noise in my car?

Check under the car when it’s cool for any visibly loose heat shields or exhaust parts. If the rattle gets louder while idling or driving, book a mechanic appointment soon. Rattles can be harmless, but they can also point to failing exhaust mounts or catalytic converter issues that need attention.

How much does it cost to replace an exhaust?

Ticking noises are usually an early sign of issues with your engine’s lubrication system of valve components. You might notice the ticking more when the engine is cold, or after the car’s been sitting for a while. While some ticking noises can be harmless, others can lead to performance issues or even severe damage if left unresolved. So, what causes ticking sounds in a car?

What should I do about a ticking noise in my car?

Start by checking your engine oil level and condition. If the oil is low or dirty, top it up or change it to see if that helps. If it continues, don’t ignore it – have a professional mechanic check it out. 

50% of UK drivers delay repairs due to cost

, and many end up paying the price with bigger, more expensive problems down the line. 

4. Why is my car making a squeaking noise?

If your car makes a squeaking sound when braking, accelerating, or starting up, it’s usually down to something worn, loose, or under stress.

What should I do about a squeaking noise in my car?

Start by checking the likely causes: brake pads, the serpentine belt, and the clutch if you drive a manual. If the brake pads look thin or worn, replace them as soon as possible. 

If the squeak happens on cold starts or when you accelerate, have the serpentine belt inspected for wear or tension. And if you hear it while changing gears, get the clutch checked. A quick visit to a mechanic can confirm the issue and prevent bigger problems later.

5. Why is my car making a whistling noise?

A whistling noise while driving usually means air is escaping from part of your engine, often through a cracked hose, vacuum leak, or damaged seal. The sound can be high-pitched and may get louder when accelerating or idling. This is one of those noises that’s easy to overlook, but it could be masking a much bigger problem with your engine’s air-fuel mixture.

What should I do about a whistling noise in my car?

Check for any obvious leaks in vacuum hoses or the intake system and listen carefully when the engine is idling. If you suspect a loose or damaged hose, avoid driving long distances until a mechanic inspects it, as air leaks can affect performance and fuel economy.

If one of these car noises turns into a real issue, don’t panic about the bill. With Bumper’s interest-free 

, you can avoid a lump-sum payment and handle the cost like a pro. It’s a smarter alternative to a traditional car repair loan, with no interest and no stress. 

6. Why is my car making a knocking noise from the engine?

If you hear a knocking or thudding noise from your engine, especially when accelerating, there might be some abnormal combustion or worn internal components.

What should I do about a knocking noise from the engine?

Stop driving if the knocking is loud or persistent, as it could signal serious engine damage. Check your car’s oil level and fuel quality, then book a professional inspection as soon as possible. Engine knocks can quickly worsen if left untreated. 

7. Why is my car making a scraping noise when driving or braking?

A scraping or grinding sound (especially when slowing down or turning) usually means some friction between parts of your car. It’s a noise you should never ignore, as it’s often linked to your car’s braking systems or wheels. You might notice the noise gets worse when you press the brake pedal or drive at low speeds. 

Avoid driving until you find the cause. Check for debris around the wheels and look for signs of worn brake pads. If the noise persists or braking feels weaker, get your car to a mechanic immediately, as braking issues can be dangerous.

8. Why does my car backfire when accelerating?

during acceleration, this could be a backfire caused by fuel igniting outside the combustion chamber. While it sounds dramatic, it’s often down to a simple issue that can be easily corrected.

What should I do if my car backfires when accelerating?

Check your fuel quality and make sure your car isn’t overdue for a service. Backfiring often points to ignition or fuel system issues, so arrange a professional inspection quickly to prevent damage to your exhaust or engine.

9. Why does my car vibrate while driving?

If your car feels like it’s vibrating or buzzing at higher speeds, it’s usually a sign that something’s misaligned in the wheels, drivetrain, or suspension. These vibration noises often start small and build gradually over time. You might notice them in the steering wheel, through your seat, or even under your feet. 

What should I do if my car vibrates while driving?

Slow down and pull over if the vibration feels severe or the car is hard to control. Check your tyres for visible damage or low pressure, then book a wheel alignment or mechanical check to diagnose any worn suspension or drivetrain parts.

Fix now, pay later with flexible car repair finance

If you’re hearing something suspicious, don’t wait until it becomes a major repair. With Bumper’s 

 option, you can split the cost of your fix into interest-free monthly payments, without the pressure of a lump-sum bill. Apply online in seconds, or directly through one of 5,000+ trusted garages and dealerships across the UK. Start now!

Some car noises are perfectly normal and nothing to worry about. These include the hum of tyres on the road, a soft whoosh from the air vents, the gentle sound of the engine idling, and the clicking of indicators. Occasional brake squeaks in wet weather or a faint fan belt sound during a cold start can also be normal. However, if noises become louder, persistent, or unusual, it may be a sign of a developing problem that needs attention.

A healthy engine should run smoothly with a consistent, steady hum. It’s normal to hear a quiet ticking as fuel injectors work, a low growl when accelerating, or a gentle whirring from belts and pulleys. These sounds indicate that components are operating as they should. Loud knocking, rattling, grinding, or high-pitched squealing, however, are not normal engine noises and are usually caused by an issue that needs a mechanic’s inspection.

9 car noises to look out for (and what to do)

Whether it’s a tiny chip from a passing lorry or a long crack creeping across your screen, you’ve probably got one question on your mind when it comes to repairing a windscreen: 

The good news is, repairing a chipped windscreen is usually fast, simple, and far cheaper than a full replacement. Here’s your handy guide to windscreen chip repair costs, what affects the price, and how to make your next visit to the garage a little more bearable with Bumper. 

How much does it cost to repair a chipped windscreen?

In the UK, repairing a chipped windscreen typically costs £40–£70. The exact amount depends on the size and position of the chip, the type of vehicle, and your garage’s rates.

Smaller chips, especially ones that haven’t spread, can often be fixed quickly and affordably. But leave it too long, and that small chip could develop into a full crack, leading to a 

How do professionals repair windshield chips? 

Most professional windscreen chip repairs take less than 30 minutes if the chip is small, shallow, and hasn’t started to spread. 

How much does a cracked windscreen repair cost?

If your chip has turned into a crack, the cost increases quite a bit. Replacing a cracked windscreen in the UK can cost between 

Why is a cracked windscreen more expensive?

Replacing a cracked windscreen costs more than a simple chip repair because modern car windscreens are far more advanced than they used to be – often integrated with high-tech features that require specialist parts and extra labour, including: 

These need to be carefully removed, replaced, and recalibrated when the windscreen is changed. The result? More time in the workshop, higher part costs, and sometimes even specialist tools or software to reset the tech. Expect replacement costs for these kinds of windscreens to reach anywhere up to £1,000.

Windscreen repairs are becoming more frequent and more expensive. 

According to insights from insurance firm Allianz

, the average windscreen claim in 2024 reached £327, up from £308 in 2022 – a £19 increase in just two years!

And it’s not just individual claim costs going up; the volume of claims is increasing too. More drivers are reporting windscreen issues and needing repairs, particularly for small chips, which rose 4% in 2023 compared to the previous year. Full windscreen replacements saw an even sharper increase, up 13% year-on-year.

One of the key drivers? These modern, new-fangled windscreens! 

Claims for heated windscreens alone increased by 21% between 2021 and 2023. The rise of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)-equipped vehicles is also pushing costs higher. In 2016, just 1% of windscreen claims involved ADAS recalibration. In 2023, that number jumped to 44% (that’s nearly half!). As these systems become more common, repairs require precise recalibration of sensors and cameras to make sure the road safety features work properly.

Can you repair a stone chip in a heated windscreen?

Yes, you can repair a stone chip in a heated windscreen, but it might be slightly trickier. Heated windscreens contain ultra-thin heating wires embedded between layers of glass. These wires are designed to defrost your windscreen quickly in cold weather. If a chip or crack forms near or over these elements, it can be trickier to repair without damaging the heating system. That being said, a repair is usually possible if the chip is small, hasn’t spread, and if the heating elements aren’t visibly damaged. 

Your garage may recommend replacing a heated windscreen if: 

Ford’s original heated windscreen tech – dubbed “Quickclear” in the UK – first appeared in the 1980s Granada Scorpio, using a barely visible mesh of wires to clear frost in under three minutes. It’s now a staple feature on many mainstream models, though replacing one can still cost significantly more than a standard screen.

Windscreen chips are typically caused by sudden impacts from small, hard objects that have enough force to displace the glass they hit. Here’s a more detailed breakdown: 

Harsh UK weather (e.g. hail, heavy rain, and grit spread during winter) can lead to sudden impact or gradual wear on your windscreen. Winter driving increases the risk of a chip, especially on rural or poorly maintained roads. 

One of the most common causes of windscreen chips is loose stones or grit kicked up by other vehicles’ tyres, especially lorries and vans. These stones hit windscreens at high speeds and cause immediate impact damage to the glass.

Over time, windscreen glass becomes more vulnerable to damage. Older windscreens may have developed tiny surface cracks or weakened areas due to natural wear, making them far more likely to chip when hit with even small debris.

Faulty or worn suspension components can indirectly damage your windscreen due to increased vibrations or harsh jolts when driving over potholes or speed bumps. Over time, these can weaken the windscreen structure or turn a small chip into a larger crack.

How soon should I repair my windshield chip?

You should repair a windscreen chip as soon as you spot it. Chips can spread fast, especially with temperature changes or when driving over potholes. Not sure whether the chip needs repairing or replacing entirely? Here are some signs it might be too late for a repair:

What happens if you delay a windscreen chip repair?

If you leave your windshield repair too late, you risk the damage getting worse and making it much harder to legally drive on the road:

Get your windscreen chip repaired easily with Bumper 

A chipped windscreen repair cost is annoying, but it doesn’t have to be expensive or stressful. Get it looked at early, compare costs at your local garages, and pay your way with Bumper’s 

. We partner with over 5,000 trusted garages and dealerships across the UK to help drivers spread the cost of vehicle repairs into simple, interest-free, monthly payments – even something as small as a windscreen chip repair costs! Applying takes minutes and doesn’t affect your credit score. Get back on the road today without breaking the bank – 

Yes, repairing a windscreen chip is absolutely worth it. A small chip can usually be fixed for £40-£70. If left untreated, it can crack and require a full windscreen replacement, which can cost up to £400, especially on modern vehicles.

Can I get a windscreen chip repaired for free?

You might be able to get a windscreen chip repair for free with comprehensive car insurance. Some policies cover chip repairs without affecting your no-claims bonus, usually with an approved repairer. Always check for excess charges, any annual limits, and whether your garage is part of your insurer’s network.

Alastair Shephard

Content Writer