Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Joseph Law | Author

Alastair Shephard

Content Writer

Alastair Shephard | Author

A car differential is a fairly simple device, but it is made with high levels of precision to increase efficiency and longevity. There are a few things that can indicate your differential needs repairing. In this article, we’ll discuss those along with how much it might cost.

How much does it cost to repair a differential?

Repairing or replacing a differential can cost between £150 and £1,800, depending on the type and cause of the problem. 

If your differential is leaking, expect to pay anywhere from £50 to £350 for a garage to replace the seals. 

If you need an entirely new differential, dealer parts prices can mean many thousands of pounds, but you might be able to find a used or reconditioned one cheaper.

 can help with car repair bills. Check out where your nearest participating garage on online.

A differential allows your car's driven wheels to spin at slightly different speeds when rounding a corner, and both still transmit power. This is needed because the wheel on the outer side of the car has to spin faster and travel further than the one on the inside. 

All cars, apart from very early ones, have differentials; 4-wheel drive cars have one on each axle, and one in the centre too. Without it, it would be very difficult to turn and especially to manoeuvre, such as when parking.

Yes, every modern car uses a differential; without it, turning would be very difficult, and the car would be nowhere near as manoeuvrable. 

However, as most cars in the UK are front wheel drive, the differential is built into the gearbox, and so doesn’t have its own casing, oil level or seals. Differentials on Front Wheel Drive cars can still have issues, but they are less likely.

In general, differentials are pretty robust things, and as long as their oil is changed regularly, they will work without issue for many years. Issues generally crop up when either oil changes are ignored or seals become perished with age. 

The latter can then result in the oil leaking from the body of the differential, eventually causing it to run out. Like any mechanical device, it needs lubrication to function without accelerated wear.

No, it is not advisable to drive with a broken differential. For starters, any issues that are present will only continue to get worse, potentially turning a cheap repair job into an expensive replacement. 

Further to that, should anything go catastrophically wrong inside the differential, such as a bearing collapsing or a gear shearing, you may either lose drive or find the rear wheels suddenly lock up. Neither situation is safe!

Whether your car needs a new differential, gearbox, exhaust or bodywork repair, Bumper can help spread those large bills into manageable monthly payments with interest-free 

 has been writing about cars for over eight years and writing for Bumper for over three, 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 cars, Joseph dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale.

Rear Differential Repair Cost

Losing or damaging your car key can be stressful. But if you’re here, we probably don’t have to tell you that!

Whether it’s a simple manual key or a high-tech keyless entry fob, replacement costs vary widely, with the average car key repair cost sitting around £240.

Need a key repair? This guide explains typical car key costs, the types of keys available, factors that affect pricing, and how to replace or repair them.

On average, a replacement costs around £240, but this can range from £160 for a basic manual key to thousands of pounds for a luxury model like a Bentley. 

Local dealerships tend to charge more, while locksmiths often provide quicker, more affordable alternatives. Don’t forget you can use 

 to split the cost of repairs into interest-free repayments.

As with any repair, the cost of replacing a car key depends on the type of key and your vehicle. Let’s break these costs down into key types.

Remote keys are convenient but more expensive to replace than traditional keys. 

Typical costs range between £275 and £595, depending on your car make and model. 

Manual keys are the simplest and cheapest to replace. 

The average cost is around £160, with minimal programming required. These keys remain the most budget-friendly option for older vehicles.

Keyless or proximity keys offer high-tech convenience, but come at a price. 

Average replacements start around £280 and can escalate for luxury vehicles. This is because programming is usually required, and in some cases, the car itself must be present for the new key to work.

Car key replacement costs for popular vehicle types

Car key replacement costs vary across brands. The Bumper team have gathered up some of the most popular UK models to show the range in prices.

As you can see from the different cost bands above, modern cars use a variety of key types. Here are the main ones to know so you can get the right price for your replacement:

Most repairs or replacements can be completed within the same day, which is excellent news if you need a key ASAP.

However, as with the final cost, the time required to repair or replace a car key depends on the type of key and the service used. Simple keys will take less time than complex key fobs. 

Factors that can affect car key replacement costs

Several factors influence the cost of replacing a car key, and knowing them will help you navigate the different prices.

Firstly, the make and model of your vehicle play a significant role, with luxury or modern cars often requiring more expensive keys. 

The type of key also matters, as remote and keyless entry keys generally cost more due to their programming and advanced technology.

Additional features, such as car alarms or remote locking, can further increase the price.

Your location can affect costs too, with services in London typically charging higher rates than the rest of the UK.

The method of replacement is another consideration, as mobile services may be slightly more expensive but offer greater convenience. 

Finally, the time of day can impact the price, with out-of-hours services often attracting a premium.

When you need to replace a car key, choosing the right service can save both time and money. There are several options available, each with its own advantages and considerations:

Requesting another set of car keys is a routine procedure. The main reasons keys may need replacing are:

Many car owners also choose spare keys to avoid future stress. However, this isn’t usually a time-sensitive repair or replacement.

Can car keys be repaired instead of replaced?

Yes! If your keys are damaged rather than lost, a repair might be a good option.

Some minor issues, such as a broken button or a worn key shell, can be repaired. However, modern electronic keys often require full replacement if the transponder or programming fails.

Not usually. Programming a key fob requires specialised equipment and knowledge. 

Unless you have access to auto locksmith tools and vehicle-specific codes, professional programming is recommended. Costs typically range from £50 to £200.

What is the cheapest way to make a spare car key?

It’s hard to give a one-fits-all answer, but using a local locksmith is often the most cost-effective route. They can duplicate keys, reprogramme fobs, and may even provide same-day mobile services.

But if you have a high-tech key, your dealership might be the better option!

Keycare is an insurance add-on that provides a contact number on your key fob. 

If lost, anyone finding your keys can return them, often with a small reward. It’s a practical way to prevent costly replacements.

Getting a replacement car key is a simple job, and one you’ll have sorted in no time. Hopefully, we’ve explained the car key repair costs and different options so that you can make an informed decision. Good luck!

Need a last-minute car key replacement or repair? A Bumper 

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

Car Key Repair Costs in the UK 2025

If you’ve noticed a metallic rattle or a burning smell under your car, your heat shield could be to blame. Usually, car heat shield repair costs range from £150 to £300, but can reach £600 in exceptional cases. 

However, most of the time, repairing it isn’t usually a significant job. Here’s everything you need to know about heat shield repairs in the UK.

How much does a car heat shield repair cost?

In the UK, heat shield repairs typically cost between £150 and £300, including parts and labour.

You’ll either need a minor fix or a full replacement. Here’s the difference between each:

Remember, prices can vary between garages, so always ask for a full breakdown of parts, labour, and VAT before approving any repair.

Because garages often need to access the underbody or remove parts of the exhaust, labour time has a big impact on the final price.

If a repair bill lands at an awkward time, remember that you can use 

 to split the bill into interest-free instalments.

Other factors that influence cost of a heat shield repair

Alongside the price difference between a repair and replacement, several other factors affect the price of a heat-shield repair:

A car heat shield is a thin layer of metal or composite material designed to protect your car from the extreme heat generated by the exhaust and engine. 

You’ll find them around the exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, or beneath the underbody panels.

Their job is simple but essential: to deflect heat away from sensitive components such as wiring and fuel lines. Without them, those parts could melt and fail, or, in the worst case, catch fire.

How long does a car heat shield repair take? 

Most heat shield repairs are quick and can usually be completed the same day. 

Re-securing a loose shield typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, replacing a section takes around one to two hours, depending on rust and access, and fitting an integrated exhaust shield can take three hours or more. 

It’s often a simple fix that can be done during a regular service or MOT preparation.

A heat shield can last the lifetime of the vehicle if the metal stays intact and corrosion is kept at bay. However, on UK roads where rain and salt are constant factors, rust tends to take hold after five to ten years.

Once corrosion starts, the bolts or welds can weaken and cause rattles or detachment. Keeping the underside clean and treated against rust can significantly extend its lifespan. We’ll explore how to maintain a heat shield later on this page!

Technically, yes, but it’s not advisable.

A missing or loose heat shield might seem harmless at first, but it can allow excessive heat to reach the car’s floor, fuel system, or wiring. That can cause damage or even fire risk in severe cases.

At the very least, a rattling shield will worsen over time, potentially breaking off while driving.

Worried that your heat shield might be faulty? Here are some common signs to note. 

If any of these appear, your garage can inspect the exhaust area and confirm whether it’s a simple tightening job or a full replacement.

Prevention is the best medicine! Maintaining your car’s heat shield starts with regular care and attention, such as:

Wash the undercarriage periodically, especially after winter, to remove salt and debris that can accelerate corrosion.

Pay attention to rattles, buzzing, or tinny vibrations, as these often indicate a loose or damaged heat shield that needs inspection.

Ask your mechanic to check the heat shields whenever your car is on the ramp during servicing, ensuring any issues are caught early.

Treat small spots of rust or replace corroded bolts as soon as possible, since this is far cheaper than fitting a completely new heat shield later.

Manufacturers do not specify exact lifespan limits for heat shields, so replace the part whenever it shows significant wear or damage.

If painting the heat shield, ensure you use paint specifically designed for high temperatures and follow the manufacturer’s instructions, which may include preheating the paint.

Prevent damage by avoiding hitting the underside of the car with stones, and do not drive off-road if your vehicle isn’t designed for it.

If it’s just a loose clamp or bolt, a confident DIYer might temporarily secure it using proper heat-resistant fasteners or brackets. But if you’re unsure, it’s never a good idea to tamper with your car.

Never use household materials like foil or tin cans. They won’t withstand exhaust temperatures.

For replacements or welded sections, it’s best left to a qualified mechanic with a lift and safety gear. Incorrect fitting can cause noise at best or fire damage at worst.

A loose or missing heat shield can cause an MOT failure if it’s deemed unsafe or likely to detach while driving.

According to DVSA guidelines, any component that poses a risk of falling off, interfering with moving parts, or affecting emissions may fail the MOT. 

Even if it passes, your tester might flag it as an advisory, so it’s smart to fix it promptly.

Yes. Repairing or replacing a damaged heat shield protects your car from excess heat and extends the life of exhaust components. Repairs also help prevent more costly issues later on, so it’s a win-win.

A damaged or faulty heat shield replacement shouldn’t be put off.

Hopefully, this blog has given you insights into the general car heat shield repair costs and what to do if you notice damage. This is your sign to book your car in for a check-up!

Car heat shield repairs don’t have to be frustrating, especially if you have a Bumper 

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

Car Heat Shield Repair Costs in the UK (2025)

Anti-lock braking is one of the most important innovations in automotive design in the last few decades, preventing hundreds of thousands of collisions and accidents.

The principle in which the system works is relatively simple, but the realities of implementing it are less so, with complex mechanical and electric devices being critical to it working properly. In this article, we’ll look into the potential costs of repairing these components.

How much does it cost to repair the ABS system?

ABS (Anti-Lock Braking System) repairs can cost between £60 - £2,300, depending on the nature and extent of the fault. 

An ABS pump or module replacement can cost anything from £600 - £2,300, depending if it needs dealer-level software re-coding.

A wheel speed sensor, however, can be as little as £50. 

Have your ABS repaired with Bumper. If you’re expecting a big repair bill, Bumper's interest-free 

An anti-lock braking system or ABS as it is shortened to, is a safety feature that prevents the wheels from locking up and skidding in the event of hard braking, or when driving over loose or slippery surfaces. 

It has been mandatory on all cars sold in the EU since 2004, and likely helps prevent thousands of accidents every year, by drastically reducing braking distances. It also helps significantly with being able to brake whilst steering.

A dedicated module monitors the speed of each wheel using sensors. This data is then used to detect when a wheel has started to skid. The ABS pump then pulses braking power to that wheel, preventing it from skidding.

In almost all modern cars, the module that controls and monitors the system, and the pump/modulator are built into one unit. This is known by a few names, including: the ABS pump, ABS module, ABS unit, etc.

The ABS system pulses the braking force up to 15 times per second when controlling a skid event. This is the cause of the vibrating/shaking feeling you may get when emergency braking.

With such a complex system, there are a number of reasons it can develop a fault.

A faulty wheel speed sensor is usually the best-case scenario, as they are relatively simple to change and not overly expensive. Faults with wheel speed sensors are usually accompanied by an ESP or ESC light on the dash too, as these systems also utilise them.

Old or dirty brake fluid can also cause problems with ABS systems, as the pump has many tiny orifices that can become blocked. This is another reason to keep on top of brake fluid servicing.

ABS pump faults through age or deterioration are also not uncommon; they have many complex components inside that can simply become ineffective with age and use.

No, it is unsafe to drive with an ABS fault. In the event of an emergency stop or wet road conditions, your car's stopping distance will be drastically increased.

The fact that older cars didn’t have ABS is immaterial, as modern braking systems have much more power and will lock up the wheels much more easily, vastly increasing the risk of an accident. 

If you’re worried about paying for costly car repairs, using Bumper's 

 can help your cash flow all at 0% interest. Apply online and choose from 1000s of partners across the UK.

 has been writing about cars for over eight years and writing for Bumper for over three, 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 cars, Joseph dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale.

Anti-Lock Braking System Repair Cost in the UK? (2025)

Power steering is a feature that is easy to take for granted, particularly if you’ve never driven a car without it. It makes driving, especially parking, much less of a chore. 

In this article, we’ll have a look at some common power steering faults and how much they are likely to cost.

How much does it cost to repair power steering?

Power steering repairs can cost anything from £60 to £1,500+ depending on what needs to be repaired or replaced. 

For instance, replacing a sensor or fuse could be relatively cheap, certain sensors typically only cost £20-30 and don’t take long to fit.

However, if significant parts are required, such as a new power steering pump or rack, it wouldn't be out of the ordinary for the bill to surpass £1,000.

A hydraulic fault, such as a split or leaking hose, could cause the system to leak fluid and stop working. These sorts of faults would likely cost between £200 and £600 to sort.

If your car needs work, consider Bumper's 

 to spread out the cost into monthly payments, all with zero-percent interest. 

Those who started driving within the last 20-30 years may not have experienced driving cars without power steering. In a nutshell, power steering drastically reduces the amount of force needed to turn the steering wheel.

In cars of old, carrying out a manoeuvre such as parking in a tight spot, or doing a three-point-turn, could result in a moderate arm workout! 

 the advent of power steering allowed car designers to fit modern-looking, small steering wheels. Take a look inside a car from the 70s or 80s and you’ll notice just how massive the steering wheel is. These were used to give the driver more leverage and make turning the wheel less difficult.

There are two types of power steering, hydraulic and electric; both work to make turning the wheels less strenuous, but do so in slightly different ways. 

Electric power steering uses an electric motor attached to the steering rack. When a sensor detects the driver trying to turn, the motor is powered in the appropriate direction, assisting the driver. 

Common faults with electric power steering systems include failing angle sensors - the part that detects when the driver is turning, and faulty motors. 

Hydraulic power steering uses a mechanically powered hydraulic pump to similarly assist the driver's steering input. The first thing to check when a hydraulic system is playing up, is the fluid level in the reservoir.

Common faults with hydraulic power steering systems can relate to an issue inside the rack itself or a fault with the power steering pump. The latter is often accompanied by a whining noise when trying to turn.

There are some telltale signs of certain power steering faults:

No, you should not try to drive a car with a broken power steering system. 

Whilst it’s true that cars haven’t always had power steering, the steering system is designed to be assisted by it, making turning the wheel incredibly difficult in the event of a power steering fault.

Have your power steering fixed with Bumper

Car problems almost always crop up at the worst time. If your car has developed a fault, Bumper could help spread the cost of paying those expensive repair bills with interest-free 

Power Steering Repair Costs (UK Prices)

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? 

BMW’s MINI brand is one of the most popular on UK roads, especially when you consider all the models such as the Countryman, Clubman and of course the Cooper. However, being a subsidiary of BMW, are repair costs very high? 

In this article, we’ll take a look at some common faults relating to the drivetrain of common MINI models, and how much they’re likely to cost. 

How much does repairing your MINI drivetrain cost?

Drivetrain repairs on MINIs can cost anything from £200 to £3,000+.

The drivetrain of your car is anything that transmits power from the engine to the wheels. In most two-wheel drive cars this includes the clutch and flywheel, gearbox, differential and driveshafts.

If your car needs significant drivetrain work, such as a replacement clutch or gearbox repair, Bumper can help spread the cost with interest-free 

Clutches in most modern MINIs cost between £450 - £1300, depending on the particular model, and if any other components need to be replaced. 

For example, if the dual mass flywheel needs replacing, you should typically estimate another £200-300 on top of the above figure.

Gearbox replacements can cost between £550 for a reconditioned manual one fitted, to over £3,000 for a new automatic unit. 

In some cases, the fault can be repaired without completely replacing the gearbox, but this will still typically cost at least £200-300 as it is likely to involve removing the gearbox.

How much are replacement MINI driveshafts or CV joints?

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