Electric cars offer a revolutionary way to achieve private transportation, enabling drivers to travel distances in excess of 100 miles, without directly emitting any carbon emissions. The fuel costs can also be very attractive for anyone doing lots of miles per year, as is the Road Tax.

However, the main limiting factor to the widespread adoption of electric vehicles is the prohibitive cost of the vehicles and batteries. When launched in 2010, the Nissan Leaf cost £10,000 more than a similar car powered by petrol or diesel. 

But now in 2023, the cost of producing EVs has dropped significantly, meaning there is more affordable choice for both new and used cars. 

What are the Cheapest Electric Cars in the UK?

With numerous manufacturers now making electric cars, there is a much wider selection of vehicles to choose from, from the basic Citroen Ami to the Mercedes EQA SUV. 

We’ve rounded up the best affordable electric cars you can buy in the UK, judging them on criteria like price and usage. 

Whilst not classified as a car in its home country of France, but rather a quadricycle enabling it to be driven by 16-year-olds, the Ami is considered a fully-fledged car on UK roads. 

We wouldn’t advise taking it on the M1, but for a small, (very) compact city car the Ami beats cycling or taking the bus! 

What's more, it can be bought brand new for just under £7,700, much cheaper than anything else electric or petrol. 

Cheapest Electric City Car: Smart ForTwo EQ 

The Smart ForTwo has been around for a while now, offering just enough cars to suit the needs of a city-dweller with limited luggage. The new EQ version offers nearly 90 miles of range and a very fast recharge time. 

At £22,225 it’s one of the cheapest new EVs you can buy, which is an especially good deal considering the reasonably large amount of equipment included. 

As the first ‘full-size’ car on our list, the MG4 is surprisingly large, sold as a compact SUV/Crossover, there's just enough room for 4 adults, but certainly enough for a couple with two children. 

The MG4 has 218 miles of range, even on the entry-level model, meaning it’s punching well above its price point of £27,000 

A full-size SUV capable of carrying 4 adults and over 450 litres of luggage, the ZS EV is the choice for economical electric sports utility. 

With LED lights, a 10-inch touch screen and parking cameras as standard, the ZS comes well equipped, especially when considering the cost at just over £30,000 brand new. 

Electric estate cars are few and far between, with the estate as a whole being phased out in lieu of SUVs. Although there are a few more due to be released for sale later this year, it’s pretty much the MG5 or a Porsche Taycan at over £100,000. 

The MG5 does everything the Porsche can do though, other than doing 0-60 mph in less than 5.5 seconds, in that it can comfortably carry 4 adults, with their luggage, in a lower vehicle, slightly sleeker than an SUV or crossover. 

At £29,500 the MG5 is a reasonably priced electric estate car. 

What are the Cheapest Used Electric Cars in the UK? 

Now that EVs have been popular for a few years, the used market is a wash with reasonably priced cars. Whereas in the early days of EV adoption, the battery condition after a few years was unknown, buyers can be more confident now that a car has a certain lifespan until it may need replacement batteries. 

An average mileage Leaf can be found for under 

, some of the ones we found on Autotrader even had new batteries installed, meaning you can expect most of the claimed 110-mile range. 

Mitsubishi I-Mev or Peugeot ION 2010 - 2015 

Gaining less popularity or adoption than its rivals, you may well have never heard of the I-Mev, or rebadged Peugeot ION, but they can be a suitable electric vehicle if you only need to make short journeys. 

There is a community of people online who have found great success in replacing the batteries in these ageing EVs and using them as their daily drivers! You can pick one up for around £4,000. 

The Zoe has become one of the most popular small EVs in the last few years, in part thanks to some great deals on financing options from Renault. The MK1 was a reasonably successful car in its day, but there are issues that any buyer needs to be aware of. 

 is a fee charged by the government for using a vehicle on public roads. Its official name was changed to VED or ‘Vehicle Excise Duty’ in 1937, but most Brits still commonly refer to it as Road Tax. 

Another common misnomer is that the tax pays for the upkeep of the roads, in actuality, this has been funded by the local council taxes of the area since the same year as the name change. 

VED is charged based on how much pollution your car produces, with low or zero emissions vehicles costing nothing per year, to luxury and sports cars with large engines costing up to £700 per year! 

Currently, yes, any vehicle producing less than 100 grams per Km of CO2, is charged at £0 per year. The first paid tax band; A is 100 - 110 grams per Km, and is charged at £20 per year. 

This also applies to many hybrid vehicles too, with most falling into either the first, second or third tax band. 

Will Electric Vehicles Have to Pay Road Tax In The Future? 

In November 2022, the UK government published a policy paper outlining the VED rules regarding Electric Vehicles. From 2025, Band A will be charged at the same rate as B, meaning electric vehicles and other zero emissions-rated cars will be charged at £20 per year. 

The reasoning behind the change, as stated in the government paper, is to equalise all the VED bands across the board, making a fairer tax system, particularly for ICE (petrol and diesel) engine vehicle owners. 

Which Electric Car is the Best Value For Money? 

If you’re looking for the best bang for your buck option, it’s best to avoid new cars, as the depreciation can end up costing you a lot of cash in a short amount of time. Similarly, the cheapest electric cars will need careful consideration to make sure they don’t need replacement batteries soon. 

For a balance of the best of both worlds, we’d suggest getting a good-condition used third-generation Nissan Leaf - from 2018 onwards. 

£12,000 will get you a low mileage well-serviced ex-finance car, that has already lost most of its depreciation, but has plenty of battery life left! With plenty of creature comforts, and over 150 miles of range, and 150hp available a Nissan Leaf would make a great zero-emissions commuter or family car!

has been writing about cars for over seven years and writing for Bumper for over two, blending his passion for automobiles with a talent for storytelling.

Joseph has written about engineering and cars for Autozilla, Komaspec, and several engineering manufacturers. When he's not writing or tinkering with one of his five cars, Joseph dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale.

Cheapest Electric Cars UK

When it comes to finding the perfect family car, affordability is a top priority for many. Budget-conscious families need not compromise on quality and safety, as there are plenty of fantastic options available on the market. 

We've scoured the UK automotive landscape to bring you a comprehensive list of the ten cheapest family cars that won't break the bank. From low purchase prices to economical running costs and excellent safety features, these vehicles have it all. So, fasten your seatbelts as we embark on a journey to discover the best affordable family cars in the UK!

The Skoda Yeti has earned its reputation as one of the most practical and reliable family cars on the market. Available in the used car market, models from 2009 to 2013 fall under our budget-friendly category, the 1.9 TDI engine has a great reputation for reliability and efficiency. 

The Yeti boasts a spacious interior, making it ideal for growing families. Its frugal engines and 

 contribute to its low running costs, while its solid build provides peace of mind on the road. 

The Volkswagen Golf Mk6 is a true icon in the automotive world, and you can find used models from 2009 to 2013 within our budget range. The Golf offers a comfortable and refined driving experience, making it an excellent choice for family travel, and whilst still being great for longer commutes. 

With a range of efficient engine options, it delivers impressive fuel economy, saving you money at the pump. Volkswagen's reputation for quality and reliability further adds to its appeal. 

For families in need of a compact city car, the Skoda Citigo is an outstanding option. Produced from 2012 to 2019, this nifty little car excels in manoeuvrability and parking, making it a breeze to navigate urban streets. 

The Citigo's small size doesn't compromise on space; it can comfortably accommodate a small family. With its fuel-efficient engines, you'll find it easy on your wallet both at the dealership and the fuel station. 

Most Economical Family Car under £5,000 

The Suzuki Swift has gained popularity for its fun-to-drive nature and budget-friendly ownership costs. Models between 2010 and 2017 fall within our price range, make sure to get a 5-door variant for ease. 

The Swift's compact size makes it ideal for city driving, but its clever design ensures a surprisingly spacious interior. Suzuki's renowned reliability ensures that maintenance costs stay low, and its fuel-efficient engines make it an economical choice for budget-conscious families. 

If you're looking for a no-nonsense, rugged SUV that won't break the bank, the Dacia Duster is a perfect fit. Models produced from 2013 to 2018 offer a balance of affordability and versatility. The Duster's high ground clearance and spacious cabin make it an excellent companion for family adventures. 

Its affordable purchase price and low running costs make it a popular choice for budget-conscious families seeking a mild SUV experience. Dacias also come relatively well equipped from the factory, meaning you’re more likely to find one with high-spec options such as auto lights, heated seats and more. 

Nissan's game-changing crossover, the Qashqai, revolutionised the family car market. Models from the first generation (2007-2013) now offer an attractive price point for budget-minded buyers. 

The Qashqai boasts a well-designed interior and a comfortable ride, making it suitable for long journeys with the family. Its range of efficient engines helps keep running costs down, while its high safety ratings ensure peace of mind. 

The Ford Focus Mk3, specifically models produced between 2011 and 2018, has been a staple in the family car segment for years. Its popularity stems from its practicality, engaging driving dynamics, and well-designed interior. 

The Focus offers a range of fuel-efficient engines, and its affordability extends to insurance and maintenance costs. This combination of factors makes it a top contender for budget-conscious families. 

Opt for the estate version for even more load-carrying capacity, whilst still being an easy-to-drive, family-suitable vehicle. 

The Vauxhall Insignia, available from 2009 to 2017, is an underrated gem in the family car segment. This stylish and spacious family hatchback or estate offers excellent value for money. 

Its affordable purchase price, combined with efficient engines, ensures it remains budget-friendly throughout ownership, and the Insignia's comfortable ride and generous interior space make it a strong contender for families on a budget. 

Mazda's reputation for building reliable and enjoyable-to-drive cars is well-deserved, and the Mazda 3 is no exception. Models from 2009 to 2013 provide an affordable entry into this popular model. 

The Mazda 3 offers a sleek design, a well-crafted interior, and a range of efficient engines. Its reliability and low maintenance costs further solidify its position as one of the most affordable family cars. 

The Toyota Auris, produced between 2009 and 2013, is a safe and dependable choice for families on a budget. Known for its reliability and low running costs, the Auris provides a comfortable and spacious interior that accommodates the whole family with ease. 

Its excellent safety features ensure peace of mind during your travels, making it an ideal option for safety-conscious buyers. Toyota even offers reasonably priced warranty schemes which are well worth checking out. 

Split the cost of repairs and services into monthly payments at no extra cost. Choose from 1000s of partners on the Bumper network. 

10 of the Cheapest Family Cars in the UK 

In the UK, the Vehicle Excise Duty (VED), colloquially known as 'road tax', is a necessary toll for the privilege of driving on public roads. It has existed in some form since 1888, when a tax was charged for using certain public highways. 

To help you find the right vehicle for your lifestyle, we've created a list of cars with £30 road tax. Scroll down to see the complete list now.

From Hyundai to Fiat, here’s a list of the 17 

best cars with £30 road tax. We’ve also added some subsections like ‘small cars’ and ‘older cars’ to help you find the best match. 

A superb city car, the Hyundai i10 comes with a frugal 

 that emits just 117g/km of CO2, putting it in the £30 road tax band. Its compact size and nimble handling make it perfect for navigating through narrow urban streets. 

 2 Series Active Tourer, specifically the 218d model, falls into the £30 tax bracket thanks to its CO2 emissions of 111g/km. Despite the low emissions, it delivers punchy performance and premium comfort. 

For a more spacious option, the Mazda 6 Tourer's 2.2-litre diesel engine achieves CO2 emissions of 127 g/km, allowing for a £30 tax rate. The Mazda 6 Tourer is perfect for families, offering ample space and comfort without breaking the bank on road tax. 

For those desiring a bit of luxury without the hefty tax bill, the Mercedes GLA 200d is a perfect choice. It emits only 114g/km of CO2 and enjoys a £30 tax rate. Its sleek design and spacious interior provide a 

Looking for used cars with £30 road tax? Consider these reliable options. 

The iconic MINI Hatchback, specifically models produced between 2006 and 2014, emit around 127g/km of CO2, meaning they benefit from a low tax rate. They’re also famed for being great to drive and have a stylish charm reminiscent of the original MINI. 

The Renault Kadjar, especially the 1.5-litre diesel models made before 2017, emits just 99g/km of CO2, giving it a tax rate of £20 per year. Combining practicality with efficiency, the Kadjar is a compelling choice for those seeking a 

 XE diesel models manufactured before 2017. These stylish saloons fall into the £30 tax bracket, offering superior comfort and performance for a reasonable annual cost.

The Ford Focus is a reliable hatchback from 2011 to 2028 that’s widely available. With a five-door model and an overall reliable design, it’s easy to see why so many UK drivers love this car. You can secure low tax with the Ford Focus 1.0 T EcoBoost or 1.6 TDCI variants. 

Low-tax cars come in all shapes and sizes. Here are the best small options for local drives or city living. 

If you're environmentally conscious, the Toyota Prius is a standout option. The hybrid model emits just 70g/km of CO2, which exempts it from road tax. Plus, its compact size makes it ideal for city driving. 

The VW Up! is an excellent option for urban dwellers. ThE 

 emits just 96g/km of CO2, resulting in a £20 tax bill. It's a stylish and practical vehicle that will save you money. 

The quirky Citroen C4 Cactus 1.6 BlueHDi emits a mere 89g/km of CO2. This not only results in £0 road tax but also an incredibly economical car. Perfect for those looking for a vehicle with personality without a hefty tax bill. 

The Fiat Panda 0.9 TwinAir has a low tax rate due to its CO2 emissions of just 99g/km. This compact car is practical, economical, and surprisingly spacious - a real winner for city dwellers. 

The Vauxhall Corsa 1.0T ecoFlex SRI is a common sight on UK roads. With a 1.0L turbocharged engine, compact size, and an attractive design, it’s easy to see why this is a popular £30 road tax motor.

If you’re asking ‘What is the cheapest SUV road tax?’ we’re here to help. These cars tend to have higher road tax, but there are a few that sit around the £35 mark. 

The Nissan Qashqai is a compact SUV designed to provide an efficient drive, a spacious cabin, and a robust overall build. Not all Qashqai models have a £30 road tax, though. Only the 1.6 dCi DPF Stop Start model falls into this category. So, make sure you look for this specific variant!

The Kia Sportage is another smooth SUV that can come with an affordable £30 road tax. However, to ensure the lower tax band, you must look for fourth-generation models with a 1.7L diesel engine. They also must be registered before April 1st 2017, so you’re also looking at older models.

Okay, the Skoda Octavia vRS Diesel isn’t technically an SUV. But it’s pretty close! With a 2.0L engine, low emissions, and spacious interior, it’s an excellent choice for those who want an affordable car without losing any power. This model falls into the £30 road tax bracket.

The Audi Q3 is a desirable crossover SUV. Equipped with a sophisticated interior and a sleek look, this is a fantastic choice for a car with a designer feel. However, you’ll need to opt for the 2.0L diesel model to secure affordable road tax. Avoid the four-wheel-drive options, as these increase the tax price. 

Nowadays, the fee varies according to the car's CO2 emissions level. When choosing a car, it's essential to consider the additional costs that come with it. One of these crucial costs is the road tax, which can add up significantly over the years.

Choosing a vehicle that falls under a lower tax band can significantly lighten the load on your wallet. It's important to be aware that VED increases are announced occasionally in the UK government budget, so staying informed about these changes can help you make the most of your budget. 

But worry not, budget-conscious motorists! We're here to help. We've compiled a list of 11 affordable cars that cost between £0 to £30 to tax! These models deliver 

 and reduced tax, giving you more pounds to spend on those thrilling road trips. 

As we hurtle towards a future of greener technologies and increased environmental consciousness, the landscape of road tax in the UK is set to evolve. The government is already implementing tax incentives to encourage the adoption oF 

. This is a trend that is likely to gather momentum as we strive towards cleaner, greener motoring. 

At the same time, we may witness an escalation in tax rates for vehicles with higher emissions. This would incentivise the shift towards more eco-friendly alternatives. It also aligns with the global drive to reduce our carbon footprint. In addition to, combating climate change, and striving for a sustainable future.

That being said, the future of road tax is far from set in stone. Speculations abound, and some industry pundits suggest that the government may explore alternative taxation methods as EVs rise in popularity and traditional fuel vehicles decline. One proposition that has been mooted is a mileage-based tax system.

Whatever the future holds, and regardless of the taxation methods implemented, there will always be a market for economical, tax-efficient cars. From the bustling city streets to the open country roads, from short daily commutes to long family road trips, these 11 cars promise to keep your road tax as low as possible. 

Make car repairs more affordable with Bumper. Split the cost of repairs and services at 

1000s of Bumper partner garages and dealerships nationwide

 has been writing about cars for over seven years and writing for Bumper for over two, blending his passion for automobiles with a talent for storytelling.

What Cars Are 30 Pounds A Year To Tax?

All cars will need some maintenance and repair in their lifetime, but the cost to repair can vary wildly depending on the car’s brand, model and age.

Buying a new car doesn’t have to lead to expensive maintenance. Our experts have gathered the cheapest cars to maintain in the UK to help you find a vehicle that aligns with your budget. Scroll down and start researching now.

The more popular a car is, the cheaper it is to fix, as the parts and knowledge are much more readily available. The Ford Fiesta is the most commonly seen car on UK roads. 

Ford parts have always been readily available and reasonably priced, contributing to the Fiesta's overall affordability. 

Another small compact car, the Nissan Micra, is extremely popular worldwide, including in the UK. With the latest cars being based on Renault chassis designs, it has an even wider pool of parts and expertise. 

Whilst other Nissan models (such as the Juke and Qashqai) have gained a reputation for untimely engine and 

, the Micra has remained high on the reliability lists.

 car, you can’t go far wrong with a Honda. Whilst the parts may be typically slightly higher in price than Ford or Vauxhall in the UK, their reliability and durability means they’re still a great choice. 

The generation from 2005 to 2012 has a good reputation for reliability, and the parts are relatively inexpensive. 

Mazda is another well-renowned Japanese manufacturer. While the 2.2 Diesel engines have been known to have issues, the 1.6 chain-driven petrol engine is regarded as a 

, meaning it’s both cheap to run and less likely to break.

Mazda parts can be expensive, especially from the main dealer, but with the sheer number of Mazda 3s on the road, picking up usable second-hand or refurbished parts shouldn’t be an issue. 

The Mazda 3 is loosely based on the Ford Focus platform, meaning they are a perfect-sized car for a small family, with five doors and a reasonably sized boot. They offer excellent safety and fuel consumption. 

Renault has always made great small cars. Following on from the extremely popular Renault 5 of the 1980s, the Clio has been a hit with people who need a compact car since its launch. 

Model years 2013 - 2016 are now reaching reasonable price points but are still crammed with great tech and safety features. The 1.5 petrol engine is a nice size, affording a reasonable amount of power - meaning motorway journeys aren’t an issue - but still returning more than 50 MPG when needed. 

Whilst French cars are often not as commended as Japanese ones for reliability, the Clio has always been a reasonably safe bet, as its internals have remained relatively simplistic and dependable. Renault parts are much more affordable, too. 

If you drive longer distances and need slightly more space than the cars listed so far, a Ford Focus might be just right for you. The focus is spacious enough for five adults and luggage but 

The 1.6 diesel engine would be perfect for commuting longer distances, delivering adequate power and fuel economy in excess of 60 MPG. Being a Ford, it’s easy to find the right parts at reasonable prices. 

Hyundai’s five-year unlimited mileage warranty means even if you buy an i10 when it's a couple of years old, you’ll still have the peace of mind that if anything breaks, it’ll be covered. 

, boasting compact packaging, a very reliable powertrain and great economy. What's more, parts for Hyundai are not just reasonably priced, they are also easily accessible, ensuring that if anything goes wrong, it won't cost a fortune to repair. This further enhances the i10's appeal as a cost-effective and reliable choice. 

Toyota’s hybrid system has been around for quite a few years now, and the very high number of vehicles sold and the large number of model changes mean the Japanese manufacturer has refined the Prius’ drivetrain to be extremely reliable. 

While some hybrid parts can be expensive, they’re not known to fail regularly. Mechanical components such as brakes and suspension are reasonable in cost and also not prone to failure. 

If you’re looking for an economical city car, the Prius could be perfect, with its hybrid system enabling MPG figures over 70, even in the city. 

Like the Civic, the Honda Jazz has a great reputation for reliability, with the 1.4 chain-driven engine rarely giving fault and any components relating to suspension, braking and steering being relatively cheap. 

The Jazz also offers great practicality, as it sports four doors and enough room for four adults inside. If treated with care and serviced properly, a Honda Jazz can provide many years of cheap motoring. 

The Fiat 500 is one of the most popular cars in the UK. It’s tough to complete a journey without spotting one of these small but mighty motors.

While buying a Fiat 500 costs more than other cars on this list, they’re surprisingly cheap to maintain. The 

 for a Fiat 500 is £140, and an interim service sits around £100.

The Toyota Yaris is by no means a new car, but it’s an old, reliable one that will get you from A to B without extreme cost. It’s also been high on car experts’ reliability ratings for years, meaning it’s a great purchase if you want a motor that’ll stand the test of time (and a few knocks on the way). 

Parts for the Yaris are plentiful, and most garages know how to repair them. The approximate yearly service cost is £180, which is below the Toyota Prius and Aygo models. However, the Yaris is a smaller and older car, which may disappoint some buyers. 

What cars are cheap to maintain? Factors to look for

If you’re looking for low-maintenance cars in the UK, you need to have these factors in mind. 

The cheapest car to maintain in the UK - Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for a new car or are simply curious about the least expensive cars to maintain, we hope this blog has given you some insider insights into the best low-maintenance cars. From the Ford Fiesta to the Toyota Yaris, these eleven models are great picks for saving money on the go.

Alongside knowing the most reliable and cheap to maintain cars, it’s crucial to know who to call when facing costly repairs. 

 provider, you can split the cost of services and repairs into monthly payments, at no extra cost. Choose from 1,000s of Bumper partner dealerships and garages all over the UK already signed up to the network.

Top 11 Cheapest Cars to Maintain in the UK

 Tu guía para ahorrar en costes: Los 9 coches más económicos de reparar y mantener en España

Die 11 im Unterhalt günstigsten Autos in Deutschland 

Whilst it may seem fairly innocuous, the fuel cap on your car serves a few very important roles. Even though they are a simple device they can still become worn or work less effectively over time, and in some cases stop functioning altogether. We’ll explain their main uses and what to do if your fuel cap is loose and what problems it can cause. 

The main purpose of a fuel filler cap is to prevent the fuel from spilling as well as evaporating from the tank. 

Petrol, if left open to the air, will evaporate all its volatile chemicals within hours, causing the fuel to become stale and much less energy dense. The fuel filler cap prevents the liquid from evaporating and therefore retains the fuel's energy. 

If your fuel cap is broken or worn out, and the rubber seal is not making good contact with the filler neck, 

your fuel will evaporate from the tank much faster than normal.

The more obvious consequence is that the 

You may notice that if you don’t drive many miles, and your fuel cap is loose, the engine runs rough after a month or so, or fails to start at all. 

This would be due to the volatile compounds evaporating and the petrol becoming stale. 

If you notice your fuel cap is loose, the only real way to fix it is to buy another one. The mechanism that locks the fuel cap in place, and that seals the fuel from spilling, is all built into the cap itself, so there should be no issue with the filler neck or tank. 

The best place to source a filler cap would be the main dealer parts department, they will be able to supply an exact replacement of the original, ensuring there are no issues with sealing for years to come. 

It’s strongly recommended that you don't drive if your car is missing its fuel filler cap, 

not only would your fuel evaporate, but spills onto the road can be dangerous for multiple reasons. 

Other than the obvious flammable dangers of petrol spilling from your car, fuel on the road can be very dangerous for road users such as motorcyclists or cyclists, as it can make the surface slick as ice. 

If you're in a position where you’ve lost your fuel filler cap, and cannot get home without driving your car, you could try a couple of short-term solutions. 

Buy a universal filler cap in a garage or supermarket - lots of petrol station shops sell ‘universal’ fuel filler caps. Borrow one from another car - ask your friends and family if they have a similar car or make. 

Don’t use a rag or item of clothing (socks are quite common!) as a makeshift cap. 

The porous material can allow the vapour to still pass through, and petrol can still seep out when the fuel sloshes around.

Most of us will have some supermarket bags stowed away in the boot, in a pinch these can be used as a cap, but make sure they don't fall into the tank, fall out or allow dirt into the system. 

Most fuel filler caps are inexpensive, between £15 - £30.

 If however, your fuel cap has a lock built into it, you may find it can cost upwards of £100 to get one that will work with your car key. 

In the event you lose your locking fuel filler cap, an alternative is to buy a universal locking cap, or one from a different car with the key supplied. 

This may mean you need to keep the fuel cap key in your car separately (don't lose it!) but will be cheaper than getting one made to suit your key.

Most manufacturers have their own variation of filler caps, the main differences being the way the devices lock into the filler neck, with some using a half turn, some by the key and so on. 

However as many manufacturers are sharing parts nowadays, you may find some brands fit others, common ones include Volkswagen, Seat and Audi - BMW and Mini - Jaguar, Land Rover and Range Rovers - and more! 

You can buy universal fuel caps, usually, each one will be advertised at a specific set of car makes so make sure you’re getting the right one! 

Modern rubber seals and tough plastics mean most drivers will never need to replace a fuel cap in their car’s lifetime. 

Exceptions may be if the cap is damaged by yourself or a previous owner or if you notice fuel leaking from the cap after filing. 

If you’ve noticed petrol around the filler cap of your car after filling, it might be leaking from the fuel cap or from the tank itself: 

Noticing petrol on the floor underneath your car can be indicative of a serious issue, as a leaking tank can be extremely dangerous. 

Firstly, check the location of the leak, if it’s to the rear, on the same side as the petrol cap, there’s a good chance it's from the petrol tank itself. 

Modern cars often use plastic fuel tanks, and there are a few failure points, one being the connection between the filler neck, the tube that runs from the filler cap to the tank, and another being the tank itself. Sometimes the metal straps that hold it in place can wear through the plastic. 

Issues with the fuel filler neck can sometimes be rectified by removing and refitting the connection with new fasteners. However, issues with the main fuel tank will most likely require a new tank assembly. 

If you notice fuel running down the side of your car, particularly shortly after filling up, it may be a sign your fuel cap is not sealing properly. 

Open the fuel filler door and inspect the area for signs of fuel leaking. 

It may be hard to detect leaking fuel in anything but very cold weather, as petrol evaporates readily above freezing temperatures. The best solution may be to buy a new fuel cap and so if that resolves the problem. 

As car issues can quickly get expensive, try Bumper for zero-interest car repair financing, and choose from hundreds of approved partners across the country. Find your nearest approved partner. 

What Happens if your Fuel Cap is Loose?

Was passiert, wenn Ihr Tankdeckel locker ist?

Whilst very small, and hidden away out of sight, the fuel filter is a component present in every petrol or diesel-engined car, which contributes a significant amount to the smooth running and reliability of modern vehicles. 

This article will go into the ins and outs of fuel filters, including how they work, when to change them, how much a replacement fuel filter costs and more. 

It may seem self-explanatory, but it's important to understand the role of fuel filtration in modern cars, which is more vital than ever. 

Once refined from crude oil, the petrol or diesel may well travel thousands of miles to get to your tank. During this time it will travel through ageing pipes, tanks and valves. 

All this results in an end product that is often quite far from perfect, with sediment, dirt and other impurities being present. Due to the traditional usage and production diesel tends to contain more impurities than petrol. 

How much do fuel filters cost to replace?

The average cost to replace a fuel filter is £105, with prices ranging from £70 on older/simpler cars, and up to £150 on premium/luxury brands. 

Split the cost of car repairs into monthly payments at 1000s of garages and dealerships. 

Often fitted in line with the fuel line, between the fuel tank and the fuel system in the engine bay, all fuel flow is routed through the filter, and subsequently through the filter elements. Any pieces of debris or dirt are captured in the filter elements, preventing them from entering the fuel system or engine. 

Almost all fuel filters fall into one of two categories; inline and cartridge. 

 is a plastic or metal unit with tube connectors in each end, a flexible fuel hose is connected to these, with the fuel line passing through the unit from one end to another. 

 use a plastic housing with a removable ‘bowl’, inside the bowl sits the filter element. To replace the filter element, the bowl is unscrewed, the filter replaced and the bowl re-attached. 

There is no inherent benefit to either type, and the type of replacement filter you need to buy will depend entirely on the manufacturer’s design - it’s important to note the two types are not interchangeable - most garages or auto parts stores will be able to search up which part you need.

How often should you replace a fuel filter?

Fuel filters should be replaced every 30,000 miles or two years of use

, but check your car’s manual for more precise information. 

Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

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