Alastair Shephard

Content Writer

Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Voluntary termination (or VT for short) helps you get out of a car finance contract if you can’t keep up with the payments. 

Today, we're diving into how voluntary termination of car finance works, why you might consider it, and the financial impacts involved, so you can make an informed decision that’s best for you.

What is voluntary termination of car finance?

Voluntary termination (VT) is a term used to describe ending your car finance agreement before the official contract end date. 

, this option has been available for all UK drivers, provided they meet the relevant criteria. 

If you choose Voluntary Termination (VT), your finance contract ends, and you must return the vehicle—meaning you can’t keep the car. This option protects drivers facing financial changes, providing a safeguard in challenging circumstances.

Voluntary termination vs voluntary surrender

Voluntary termination and voluntary surrender may sound similar, but they’re very different concepts. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Knowing the difference between the two can help you avoid any confusion when filing your application, and will save you future charges!

What are your rights under the Consumer Credit Act?

Section 99 of the Consumer Credit Act 1974.

This grants consumers the right to terminate regulated hire-purchase or conditional sale agreements before the final payment is due. 

To exercise this right, you must have paid at least 50% of the total amount payable under the agreement. This total includes the vehicle cost, interest, and any additional fees outlined in the contract. 

If 50% has not yet been paid, the consumer can make an additional payment to reach this threshold and proceed with the termination. 

You must fulfil these terms and conditions to be eligible for VT. 

Reasons to file for voluntary termination

There are a few common reasons for filing for voluntary termination, such as:

The reasons mainly surround finances and being able to afford the car. It’s not an option for those who just fancy a new car and want to get out of their contract.

How voluntary termination car finance works

Voluntary termination is an option for new and used cars financed through PCP or HP agreements. 

The general steps to apply and start VT include:

You can ensure a smoother transition by documenting your vehicle’s condition, maintaining clear communication, and by keeping a record of all phone calls, emails or letters.

If you’re ever unsure, contact the finance provider for more information.

In a PCP agreement, the 50% threshold includes interest, fees, and the 

, not just monthly payments. Even halfway through your term, you may not have reached this amount. 

If you haven't, you can pay the difference to qualify for voluntary termination, but any payments beyond 50% won't be refunded.

HP (Hire Purchase) voluntary terminations are much simpler than PCP. 

HP contracts don’t have any lump-sum balloon payments. Rather, your repayments are spread evenly across your term.

When you reach the halfway paying point, you automatically qualify for the 50% payment requirement. You can even pay the difference to get to the 50% mark if you’re slightly short of this amount.

How long does voluntary termination take?

Once you apply, voluntary termination is a quick process. 

However, finance companies aren’t usually keen on this process, and may lengthen the application time if you’re not clear about your circumstances.

Want to speed up the process? Ensure you clearly understand what you want, know the difference between voluntary termination and surrender, and meet the necessary requirements.

Financial drawbacks of voluntary termination

Exercising voluntary termination can have several financial consequences you may want to consider. These include:

Does voluntary termination affect your credit score?

No, VT doesn’t negatively impact your credit score.

However, as mentioned above, it will appear on 

 This may influence lender’s opinions in the future, even if your credit score doesn’t drop.

Voluntary termination gives you a way to walk away from your car finance agreement legally and without major penalties, as long as you follow the rules.

Just make sure you go through the process carefully, meet all the requirements, and understand any financial impacts along the way.

Find more information for UK drivers via the Bumper blog.

Owning a car can come with plenty of surprise expenses. 

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

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

What Is Voluntary Termination of Car Finance?

If you’re in the market for a small or compact Ford, the choice often boils down to two options: the Ford Fiesta and the Ford Focus. Both cars are UK staples, known for their driving dynamics, practicality, and overall good value for money. 

However, while they come from the same brand, they’re aimed at slightly different segments of the market. In this article, we’ll compare the two models across key areas to help you decide which one suits you best.

 has been one of the most popular small cars in the UK for decades. Originally launched in 1976, the Fiesta has evolved into a practical and fun-to-drive hatchback that appeals to first-time buyers, city dwellers, and those who simply want a reliable car for everyday use.

It offers a range of engine options, technology, and customisation, making it a versatile choice in the small car category, it currently sits as Ford’s second-smallest car. The Fiesta isn’t in production any more, but you can still get some nearly-new models for a reasonable price.

 is a compact family hatchback that has been a mainstay of the UK car market since 1998. Known for its sharp handling and practicality, the Focus offers more space than the Fiesta while still being nimble enough to appeal to those who enjoy a lively driving experience. 

It’s a good fit for families or individuals who need a little more space, but still want a manageable car for urban driving.

When it comes to size, the Fiesta is noticeably smaller, being over a foot in length shorter. This translates to a bigger boot and more legroom for rear passengers. 

As expected, the Ford Focus is larger in nearly every dimension. It offers more interior space, especially when it comes to boot capacity, making it a better option for families or those who regularly carry more luggage. 

The Fiesta, however, is more compact and nimble, making it ideal for tight urban environments and smaller parking spaces. Interestingly the Focus weighing only 133kg more should help it remain nearly on-par fuel economy-wise.

Both the Ford Fiesta and the Ford Focus are available in hybrid versions, reflecting the industry's shift towards greener alternatives. The Fiesta is available as a mild-hybrid (MHEV) with a 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine. 

The Focus also offers MHEV variants, as well as a full hybrid version with a 2.0-litre engine and an electric motor. This allows for a better balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it a good option for longer trips or those doing motorway journeys regularly. 

However, neither car is currently offered as a fully electric model, though Ford’s plans for the future might change this.

Both the Fiesta and Focus offer a wide range of petrol and diesel engines, as well as hybrid variants.

The Fiesta’s engine lineup includes a 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine that produces 95bhp, 125bhp, or 155bhp, with a 6-speed manual or automatic gearbox. In 2020, Ford stopped offering the Fiesta with a Diesel engine.

The Ford Focus has a large range of engines, with options ranging from a 1.0-litre EcoBoost to a more powerful 1.5-litre EcoBlue diesel producing up to 120bhp. Both manual and automatic transmissions are available.

If you're planning on regular motorway trips or towing, the Focus is also available with a 150 or 190hp 2.0 diesel, giving the power and torque needed over the smaller petrol engines.

The Ford Fiesta and Focus are both recognisably Ford, but they cater to different tastes. The Fiesta is more compact, with a more youthful design that has sharp lines and a more aggressive front grille. The later models all began to adopt some of the styling of the ST line, sportier versions.

The Focus, while sharing some styling cues with the Fiesta, has a more mature, sophisticated look. It’s larger and more sculpted, with a bolder grille and sleeker lines, making it appear more grown-up and executive.

In short, if you prefer a sportier vibe, the Fiesta will appeal more. If you're after something a bit more refined and practical, the Focus might be more your style.

Inside, the Fiesta is designed for a smaller, more minimalist feel. It offers a good-quality interior with soft-touch materials, but it doesn’t feel as spacious or plush as the Focus. The dashboard layout is simple, with a large touchscreen in the centre and physical buttons for ease of use.

The Ford Focus offers a more premium interior, with a larger infotainment screen and a more expansive layout. The materials used feel more upmarket, and there’s more space throughout, including rear-seat legroom. The Focus feels like a step up in terms of overall comfort and luxury.

From new, both came with Ford’s standard 3-year/60,000-mile warranty, but as the Fiesta is no longer available new, be sure to check things like service history carefully. Both cars are generally well-regarded, with the Fiesta holding a slight edge in terms of long-term dependability due to its simpler technology and lower running costs.

One consideration with both of these cars and any recent Ford product is the EcoBoost wet belt issue. On some engines, the 1.0 litre being the biggest offender, the 

 deteriorating can contaminate the oil, leading to engine failure. 

Before purchasing any car with a wet cam belt, check the engine oil and cambelt servicing meticulously, and avoid any car that’s missing proof of these service items.

Both the Ford Fiesta and Focus are equipped with modern safety features, including multiple airbags, traction control, and automatic emergency braking. The Ford Fiesta has received a 5-star Euro NCAP rating, with good results in adult occupant protection and pedestrian safety.

The Focus also boasts a 5-star Euro NCAP rating and includes more advanced safety tech, like lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. It offers a higher level of safety tech, making it a better option if advanced features are a priority.

The Ford Fiesta starts at around £16,000 for the base model, making it an affordable option for those on a tighter budget. As the Fiesta is no longer available new, there are some good deals to be had on a 3-year-old off-lease car.

The Ford Focus, being a larger and more premium offering, starts at around £28,500. Higher-end models like the Titanium and ST-Line tack on anything from £3-6,000.

In terms of value for money, the Fiesta excels for those who want a cheap, fun, and reliable car, but if you need extra space and practicality, the Focus offers excellent value for money too.

The Ford Fiesta is the perfect choice for those who need a compact, affordable car for city driving or commuting. Its small size, lower running costs, and fun handling make it ideal for young drivers or anyone who doesn’t need a lot of space.

On the other hand, the Ford Focus offers a more mature and refined driving experience, with more space, better comfort, and more advanced safety features. It’s the better choice for families, longer commutes, or those who want a more grown-up car.

Ultimately, the choice between the Fiesta and Focus depends on your priorities: whether it’s the nimble agility of the Fiesta or the more spacious and sophisticated Focus. Both are excellent cars in their own right, so you can’t go wrong with either option.

 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 cars, Joseph dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale.

Ford Fiesta vs Ford Focus: Which Should You Choose?

With the Golf arguably being the quintessential hatchback, you’d be forgiven for gravitating towards it immediately when searching for a new, practical family car. However, the new Polo is bigger than ever, and might actually be plenty of car for your needs, at a lower price point. 

In this article, I’ll compare the two on all the critical features, and give you some useful information to pick between the two.

 was the German automaker's replacement for the incredibly successful “car of the people”; the Beetle. Its design brief was simple, to be as compact and efficient as possible, whilst being able to carry 4 adults and luggage. 

Since then it has remained one of the most popular car models to exist, with everyone from new drivers to families enjoying the hatchback's practicality, with the great driveability.

Since its release it has seen 8 major model changes, with the current generation, the Mk8.5 (facelifted Mk8), being launched in 2020. The main shift over time is scale, the current Golf is enormous compared to the original.

Capitalising on the Golf's success, VW wanted to make a smaller version, to appeal to city drivers. Their prior acquisition of Audi in the 1960s gave the VW engineers the perfect car to rebadge; the Audi 50. In 1975 they launched the 

Since then the Polo has gone through 6 generations, with the current model, the Mk6 facelift or Mk6.5 having been in production since 2012. A new model, the Mk7, is expected to be launched this year, so if you want the latest look, hold tight for that.

The two cars fall distinctly into two categories, Hatchback for the Golf, and Supermini for the Polo, although this could be contested with the creation of the even smaller but now discontinued VW Lupo and Up!. 

The Golf's more generous proportions are noticeable when compared side-by-side, except the height, I’ve listed the key stats below:

Interestingly, whilst the Golf is 200mm (8”) longer than the Polo, and a whopping 681kg heavier, its boot capacity is only 30L more, which when you consider the width of the boot area, will make very little difference to usable space.

Currently, the Polo is not available with any hybrid or electric options, with all engines being either solely petrol or diesel-powered. The Golf is available in the GTE version, which delivers nearly 250hp via an electric-hybrid combination.

Until 2020 the e-Golf provided an all-electric option, but this was discontinued in line with the introduction of the ID range of all-electric vehicles, the ID.3 being the Golf equivalent.

Across the Golf’s range of petrol, diesel, mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid options, there is sure to be something that suits your needs. Power outputs range from an economic 115PS from the 1.5 TSI petrol to over 240 in the GTI. 

Many of these options can be paired with either a 6-speed manual or 7-speed DSG auto gearbox.

On the other hand, the Polo has a tight range of petrol engines, either a 1.0L or a 2.0L are on offer, with power outputs varying from 79hp to just over 200 - the latter from the sporty GTI model. 

Being similar-sized cars from the same brand, the Polo and Golf are very similar in their looks, with only very subtle differences in shapes and colourways of trim. The biggest difference is the proportions of both. 

Whilst the Golf has become more squat; being wide and with a relatively low roofline, the Polo actually looks quite tall. This is backed up by the numbers we saw earlier, where the Polo is only marginally lower than the Golf, but a good bit shorter.

To be sure which you prefer, seeing them side-by-side will be invaluable because the difference really is so small it's hard to spot it at first glance.

Being made by Volkswagen, neither car will disappoint in the build quality department. Whilst the interior panels aren’t covered with soft, quilted leather, they are robust and without any kind of ‘flimsiness’. 

Styling-wise, in my opinion, the Golf presents a more mature, thought-out version of the Polo. Its dashboard design is similar, but more refined, with everything on a touchscreen, that although not loved by all, makes for a sleeker look. 

That’s not to say the Polo is basic or boring though, for its class it looks incredible, especially compared to something like a Fiesta.

Unfortunately, reliability is something that VW has been struggling with in recent years, with a certain few models at least. The Mk8 golf happens to be one of them, in Whatcar?’s recent reliability survey, the Golf placed 34 out of 37, not a good position!

The Polo fared better, landing in the middle of the table, tying with one of its rivals, the Ford Fiesta, and losing out to most others.

Volkswagen offers the same warranty plan as Skoda, in that they offer a 60,000-mile or 3-year warranty. This is great for those driving them on lease but doesn’t offer much reassurance for those buying second-hand. However, you can extend the warranty at a reasonable cost, assuming the car is serviced with Volkswagen dealer garages.

Being flagship models, both have great safety features, and both scoring 5-star ratings in their respective NCAP testing. The table below highlights some key takeaways from both models’ safety features.

Whilst both cars have high ratings across the board, the Polo excels in its adult occupancy rating. This may be down to the fact it has a Side Pelvis airbag for both the driver and passenger, in contrast to the Golf.

With the Golf starting at £27,760, and the Polo £21,210, there’s a significant cost incentive to pick the Polo, this will however come at a slight feature deficit. 

As standard, the Golf comes equipped with features such as a leather steering wheel, wireless phone charging and keyless start, all things the Polo does not have. Whilst there isn’t a huge amount of feature overlap, the lowest spec Polo that matches the basic Golf is R-Line, which starts at £24,550. 

Ultimately, the deciding factor is how you intend to use the car, whilst both offer great driving characteristics and efficiency, the Polo is better suited to around-town driving, and the Golf for longer journeys. The extra weight and wheelbase should offer a more stable platform in the Golf, meaning it is better suited to high-speed motorway work.

That said, the Polo does offer similar luggage and passenger space, along with some great features as standard. If you are looking for something compact and stylish, the Polo is a perfect choice too. 

Volkswagen Golf vs Polo

Starting April 1st 2025, drivers up and down the UK will face a car tax hike.

 rise—the government only focuses on high-emission vehicles and older cars. 

This comes as part of the changes to Vehicle Excise Duty (VED), to encourage the adoption of 

 by making high-polluting cars more expensive to own.

Will you be affected by the older car tax increase? We’ll explain everything you need to know below.

The tax increase comes with Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) changes, also known as road tax. If you drive or keep a car on the road, you must pay this tax as an annual fee.

From April 1st, 2025, there will be changes to VED tax for 

. A vehicle's CO₂ emissions primarily determine the amount payable. Basically, the higher the emissions, the higher the tax.

Following the new regulations, the first-year VED of vehicles emitting over 255g/km of CO₂ will double from £2,745 to £5,490. But of course, your tax payment will depend on your specific car.

So, find out if your car is facing a tax rise and add these 

What’s causing the car tax hike in April?

This increase is part of a broader strategy to promote environmental sustainability by discouraging using high-emission vehicles. 

The government projects that this measure will raise approximately £400 million in the coming year, with expectations to reach £1.7 billion by the decade's end. 

Additionally, the policy aims to accelerate the transition to greener transportation options (e.g., 

 and public transport), reducing carbon footprints and improving air quality. 

It's all about being sustainable and building a better future!

What cars are affected by the tax increase (VED)?

59 cars will be affected by the VED tax increase in 2025. 

 that are more polluting than new, greener alternatives. For example, cars with powerful engines and potent emissions will have the steepest tax hikes. 

Here’s a list of all cars facing vehicle tax rise:

How the car tax increase will affect electric vehicles

While the higher tax rates apply to more polluting cars, the new VED structure also introduces changes for electric vehicle owners. 

EVs will no longer be exempt from road tax.

All EVs will be subject to a standard VED, starting at £10 in the first year and £195 annually thereafter. Additionally, EVs with a list price over £40,000 will incur an extra £425 annually for five years, beginning from the second year of ownership. 

These changes are expected to affect approximately 70% of new EVs, potentially influencing new and 

Something to consider if you’re looking for a new car. 

Learn more about the VED tax impacts on electric vehicles here.

The upcoming VED changes mark an exciting step toward a greener future for the UK's roads. 

Whether you already own a car or are thinking about buying one, it's a great time to explore how these updates can fit into your financial plans and eco-friendly choices.

Read more about the UK roads via the Bumper blog

Higher road tax isn’t the only extra cost that comes with owning a car!

Cars Facing Vehicle Tax Rise in April 2025

A car respray typically costs around £2,400 in the UK. It can restore faded or damaged paint, change a car’s colour, and give older vehicles a fresh, like-new appearance.

Here’s what the process involves and what you can expect to pay.

The average cost of a car respray in the UK is around £2,400, though this can vary depending on the extent of damage and required repairs. 

Full repairs before painting can push costs up to £3,000 or even £5,000, while respraying a single panel or bumper may cost just £250–£400. 

 can help you split these costs into interest-free payments.

Below, we take a closer look at the key factors that can influence the cost of a car respray, including the type of paint used, the size of the vehicle, the extent of any repairs needed, and whether you’re respraying the entire car or just individual panels.

A full car respray refreshes your vehicle’s look but is costly and time-consuming. 

Partial resprays suit small areas, though matching paint can be tricky. Full resprays ensure a uniform finish and are worthwhile for extensive fading or multiple scratches. So, it’s best to weigh the pros and cons before you book.

Respraying a car is extremely beneficial to both the car and the owner. 

Now you know how much a car respray costs, let’s look at the main reasons to do it:

A car respray involves thorough preparation, starting with sanding the old paint back to primer or bare metal.

Then, it’s time to start the respray. Each coat of fresh paint is applied, dried, and gently sanded to ensure a smooth finish. A final lacquer layer adds shine and protection. 

Bodyshops often remove panels for better coverage, and areas not being painted are masked off. 

Once complete, you must avoid washing the car for a month to let the paint cure.

A car respray’s duration depends on the area painted. A single panel may take a few days, while a full respray can exceed three weeks. 

Each coat requires proper drying and preparation to achieve a high-quality, professional finish.

How to choose a reputable car respray service

While your closest shop might be great, it’s always a good idea to research all local respray services.

Research local respray services before choosing. Make sure to check reviews, certifications, and warranties.

You can even contact the shop to discuss their experience and past work, and visit in person if possible. Speaking with staff can provide personalised advice on paint options and ensure professional, reliable service.

A car respray can be worth it if your paint is faded, scratched, or damaged, as it restores appearance and protects against potential rust.

So, while costly, it prevents corrosion, maintains value, and can transform your vehicle’s look. This makes it a practical investment for long-term care and aesthetics.

Technically, you can respray your own car, but it's challenging and requires specialist equipment, time, and patience. Mistakes can be costly and devalue your car. 

If you’re determined to DIY, practice on scrap metal first, and consider taking a course or watching tutorials before you begin.

Maintaining your respray job keeps your paint looking new and prevents further wear. 

To maintain your respray, wash and wax your car regularly, avoid harsh chemicals, and protect it from UV damage by parking in shaded or covered areas.

Vinyl wraps are generally cheaper than respraying a car. However, while wraps offer a wide range of finishes and custom designs, they have a limited lifespan and may need reapplication.

A car respray costs more, but you won’t need to worry about re-doing it any time soon.

In the UK, a full car wrap can cost between £1,500 and £3,500. Prices vary depending on vehicle size, wrap material, and installer experience or labour costs.

Car wraps in the UK generally last 5 to 7 years with proper care. 

Exposure to harsh weather or poor maintenance can shorten their lifespan. Car wraps offer some protection against rust, but not as much as a full respray. 

Yes, but only if you respray your car in a different colour. You must inform the DVLA so they can update the 

 registration document, which includes information on your car’s colour.

You don’t need to notify the DVLA if you opt for a vinyl wrap. However, if you get stopped by police, they might inquire why your car’s colour doesn’t match the V5C information.

What car respray colour is most expensive?

In the UK, standard solid colours cost around £1,500–£2,500 for a full respray. Metallic or pearlescent finishes are typically more expensive and range from £2,500–£4,000, while custom or rare colours can exceed £4,000.

Car resprays can revitalise any vehicle, whether for a fresh colour, rust protection, or post-damage repairs.

They offer a long-term solution many drivers choose, but it’s important to consider how much to respray a car and weigh the costs and options before making a final decision. Hopefully, this blog has helped you in this process!

Don’t let last-minute repairs ruin your week.

How Much To Respray a Car? Costs, Benefits & More

Cars aren’t made to break. Years of planning and testing go into designing the perfect model. Given the amount we all spend on purchasing and maintaining our cars, you’d expect them to last. Inevitably, there are certain makes and models that are going to take you right back to the dealership more frequently than you’d like.

With the cost of repairs, as expensive as they are, a reliable car can save you a lot of money in the long run. Luckily for us, 

 has the answer we're looking for: a ranking of the most reliable cars. Owners were asked to rate their satisfaction with the quality of the vehicle and its reliability.

If you're worried about car repair costs, split your bill with Bumper. Apply to spread the cost, interest-free, and choose from 100s of partners nationwide.

The only Toyota on the list, this Hybrid has been on sale since 2017, giving the manufacturer plenty of time to fix any original faults.

Drivers of the VW T-Roc found the main faults to be with the vehicle’s electronics and safety features. There were also issues with the mechanical aspects of the vehicle, namely the engine and the gearbox. 

Of the few owners who expressed a fault, most reported electrical niggles. 

Since their release into the market, EVs have been renowned for having fewer moving parts and therefore fewer issues. However, the owners of the Kia E-Niro did record some faults. Mostly these were due to the electronics of the vehicle. A new model expected to be released later this year should fix any lingering problems. 

Of the few faults reported for the Kia Rio, almost a third were electric faults and some issues with the car’s safety kit. However, fear not, the vehicle comes with an impressive 7-year warranty. 

This British-built vehicle had two main errors of faults recorded, the interior trim and the car’s safety features. 

For the Kia XCeed only some minor faults were recorded, with just over a third reporting issues with the engine, but most were found to be small and covered by the vehicle’s warranty. 

For this well-built, family-friendly model, faults were found by drivers on the electrics, interior trim, exterior paintwork, and safety equipment. 

Advice

What Is Voluntary Termination of Car Finance?

Ford Fiesta vs Ford Focus: Which Should You Choose?

Volkswagen Golf vs Polo

Cars Facing Vehicle Tax Rise in April 2025

How Much To Respray a Car? Costs, Benefits & More

What are the most reliable cars to buy in the UK in 2023?

How Do Car Trackers Work?

What is Black Box Car Insurance?