Alastair Shephard

Content Writer

Alastair Shephard | Author

Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Joseph Law | Author

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.

Is it okay to drive with a chipped windscreen? 

It’s legal to drive with a chipped windscreen in some cases, but it’s not always safe. Driving with a damaged windscreen can: 

Windscreen chip repair cost guide

After a house, a car is likely to be one of the biggest purchases you make, so there’s plenty to consider: what model to buy, whether to finance or buy outright, and even 

It may not seem like a big deal, but depending on the type of car you’re looking for, the time of year can make a considerable difference in the price and availability of the model you want. In this article, we’ll go through just when is the right time to buy a car. 

It’s worth noting first off that there may not be a “best time” to buy; it could be your hand is forced by an unexpected repair bill, or even worse, an accident. It could also be that all of a sudden you need to carry an extra person, or a pet! 

So don’t feel too disappointed if you need to buy outside of the ideal time. Everything we discuss here is in an ideal world, where your vehicular needs and cash flow can allow the freedom to decide. 

That said, car prices do fluctuate throughout the year, especially on certain types of models, so it’s always worth planning ahead. 

If you’re on the hunt for a brand new car from a dealer, you can try a couple of different tactics, both revolving around the financial calendar. 

In the lead-up to a new model being released, dealerships will be keen to clear old stock out and make space for the newer model. This could be if a new version of the same model, or even if a similar model is launched, that replaces the old one. 

Manufacturers will typically give a rough estimate of when new cars will be available in showrooms, but you may need to call the dealer ahead of time to get a more accurate timeframe for when the new cars will be arriving.

The tax year runs from the 6th of April to the 5th of April the following year. Businesses close their accounts at the end of this financial year, and a drive to increase sales generally picks up around then.

This can mean dealerships might be slightly more accepting of an offer or two around this period, in order to clinch the sale. 

In a similar way to the previous point, salespeople and dealerships often have sales targets that reset each financial quarter. This puts late March, late June, late September and late December as optimum times to visit.

Around when a new registration is released

In the UK, car registrations are dated, in the current format - that has been in use since 2001 - the 3rd and 4th numbers designate the date, e.g. YR25 OLJ is a car registered between March and September 2025. 

Lots of people prefer to have the latest registration. This generally means a spike in sales around March and September. For people who don’t mind having the latest reg number, this could mean a better price.

This is because A - Dealers may be likely to want older plated cars off their forecourt before the new ones come out, and B - They may also be willing to let those same cars go at a lower price 

the new ones are released, due to a lower demand.

Buying a used car can save you thousands; even a car 3-4 years old can be up to 60% cheaper than new. Older cars can be an even bigger bargain, and if you time it right, you may be able to save even more.

For a lot of people, Christmas is an expensive time of year, with loads of things to pay for. That’s why car sales have historically been slow around December and January.

If you’re fortunate enough to be able to buy around Christmas time, you may find an offer on a used (or new for that matter) car is more likely to be accepted.

For your run of the mill hatchbacks, estates and SUVs, there’s no real correlation between demand and time of year, for open top sports cars, however, the weather and season can play a big part.

If you’re looking for a little 2-seater convertible, being able to plan ahead and buy one during winter or autumn could save you a pretty penny. Sellers will still want or need to get rid of cars during these times, but they’ll have much less haggling power if less people are looking to buy!

The opposite is true for cars that people tend to want in winter, 4x4s for snow, and rugged estate cars that don’t mind getting muddy, salty and generally beaten about, aren’t really on buyers' minds during the height of summer.

Buy performance cars at the start of the month

If you’re looking for a performance car, or even just a slightly older car, the VED (road tax) can be a considerable cost, with some rates over £700 per year. Factoring this in when timing your purchase could save you a tank of fuel's worth of cash. Because VED isn't transferable and you can only buy in full calendar months, you’ll need to tax the car from the moment you buy it. If this happens a few days before the end of the month, you’ll still get charged for that whole month.

Buy just after the start of the month, however, and you’ll get a full month's driving from that first payment. The same can be said for selling a car, or taking it off the road - do so nearing the end of a calendar month.

Sell your old car rather than trading it in

When trading in or part-exchanging your old car for a new one, the dealer needs to account for all their costs when calculating the amount they’ll pay. They’ll need to valet it, store it, and of course, add a profit margin. 

This means you won’t get as much for your car as if you sold it privately before the new purchase sites like Autotrader and eBay can be good for getting the best value for your old 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 cars, Joseph dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale.

When is the Best Time to Buy a Car?

Petrol and diesel cars have been firmly in the crosshairs of environmental legislation in recent years, thanks to the large amount of pollution they pump into the atmosphere, and the limited supply of fossil fuels they use to do so.

Synthetic fuels may pose a solution to both these points, all without needing extensive modifications to existing vehicles. But what exactly are synthetic fuels, how are they made, and are they the answer to the impending 2030 petrol and diesel ban?

Synthetic fuel, also known as e-Fuel, is an alternative to petrol or diesel, but instead of being a refined version of the oil found naturally in the Earth's crust, it's a man-made fuel, produced through complex and innovative processes.

You may have heard of synthetic oil for use in your engine, as they are commonly specified for use in modern vehicles; however, synthetic fuel doesn’t follow quite the same method. Whereas synthetic engine oil starts with crude oil, the constituent parts of synthetic fuels are all extracted in a renewable way, and even the energy used comes from renewable methods such as solar and wind.

At the most basic level, synthetic fuels are a blend of carbon and hydrogen to form a liquid hydrocarbon fuel. Almost all fuels we use are hydrocarbons, from natural gas to diesel.

Hydrogen is gathered by extracting it from plain old water, in a process called electrolysis. Whilst it sounds relatively simple, this takes large amounts of energy to do. The other ingredient, carbon, is ideally captured from the large amounts of carbon dioxide in the air, but can also come from processed biomatter. 

Once collected, the hydrogen and carbon are combined and refined into petrol or diesel, depending on the materials used and processing involved.

Yes, the main selling point of eFuels is that they work as direct replacements for fossil-based petrol and diesel. The reliability, economy and performance would be matched by way of additives, just as synthetic engine oils are made.

An alternative to fossil fuels has been a priority for many years, due to both their polluting nature and the finite quantity of crude oil needed to produce them. Thanks to the way e-fuel is made, it is a CO2-neutral process, meaning it does not add CO2 to the atmosphere in the same way burning fossil fuels does. 

This means we can limit the effect our cars have on the environment, and add another option for those not yet ready or able to switch to electric. The prospect of synthetic fuels is so promising that an exemption to the EU 2035 petrol car ban was added.

One of the companies leading the way in synthetic fuel development is Porsche, most likely because the bulk of their business and prestige is from high-performance sports cars such as the 911, and they are famous for their incredible engines.

Whilst they do still emit CO2 into the atmosphere when burnt in an engine, eFuels are made by capturing carbon dioxide out of the air, meaning their carbon emissions are effectively neutralised.

However, one aspect that is not cleaner is the nitrogen oxide emissions; in some cases these have been found to be higher than when using conventional petrol fuel, the same can be said for carbon monoxide and ammonia.

What are the downsides of synthetic fuels?

Synthetic fuels aren’t widely used currently due to both cost and availability. The largest plant in the world in Chile is predicted to output around 55 million litres of eFuel in 2025, which sounds good until you learn that the UK alone uses around 17 billion litres of petrol. 

Because of this scarcity, the price is also very expensive, and with the amount of energy needed to produce it, it's not likely to come down to a price near that of normal fuels in the next few years. 

Another downside, especially when compared to electric vehicles, is the emissions that are still released when burned. As we discussed above, the NOx and carbon monoxide levels can actually be higher in some cases. This, coupled with the carbon dioxide emissions, means eFuelled vehicles will still need to be controlled in cities and large towns. 

Will synthetic fuels replace EVs and Hybrids?

Time will tell, but looking at the figures, it seems unlikely, at least for the majority of drivers. What may well happen is that synthetic fuels become available for those wanting to use older performance or vintage cars.

For the masses, though, eFuels will simply be too expensive to justify; hopefully, the cost of purchase and charging infrastructure of EVs will improve before the 2030 deadline. 

Synthetic Fuels Explained

It might sound like a harmless squeak – but ignoring a high-pitched noise under your car’s bonnet could lead to hundreds of pounds in engine damage. Experts have warned that a squealing sound could signal a worn fan belt – and spraying it with WD-40 might do more harm than good.

The fan belt, also known as the auxiliary belt, is a key engine component responsible for powering everything from your alternator and cooling fan to power steering and air conditioning. Over time, the belt wears out or stretches, and one of the first signs is a telltale squeaking or chirping noise when you start the engine or accelerate.

A squeaking noise from under the bonnet is often the first sign your fan belt is wearing out or has lost tension. It’s a really common issue – but the wrong fix could end up costing you dearly.

Many drivers instinctively reach for WD-40 or other lubricants, assuming the belt just needs a bit of oil to quieten it down. But Bumper warns that this DIY quick-fix could create a far more expensive problem.

Fan belts are designed to run dry. If you spray any kind of lubricant on them, it can cause the belt to slip off the pulleys while the engine is running – and that can lead to engine overheating or damage to critical components.

In older cars, the solution may be as simple as tightening the belt with a socket wrench. However, most modern vehicles are fitted with automatic tensioners, meaning if the belt is squeaking, it's usually because it’s too worn or stretched to work properly – and should be replaced.

If your car uses an automatic tensioner and it’s still squeaking, don’t ignore it. Either the belt has had its day, or one of the components it drives – like the water pump or alternator – could be starting to fail.

The cost of replacing a worn fan belt typically ranges between £100 and £200, but if the belt snaps or slips off while driving, the cost to repair the damage could be much higher – especially if it leads to engine overheating or electrical failure.

The advice is simple: don’t ignore the squeak, and never spray oil on a fan belt.

If you hear a high-pitched squeal when starting your car or turning the wheel, it’s time to book it in – not reach for the WD-40. That sound might be annoying, but it’s your car’s way of telling you something’s wrong.

Drivers Warned Squeaking Noise Could Cost £100s – and WD-40 Might Make It Worse

Drivers are being urged to take better care of their engines – and it could be as simple as heading down the motorway now and then. Experts have warned that cautious, slow driving habits may actually be doing more harm than good, increasing the risk of engine damage caused by carbon build-up – often referred to by mechanics as “black death.”

Most motorists try to protect their cars by driving gently around town, but this can unintentionally lead to long-term problems. One of the biggest risks is the accumulation of carbon deposits, which clog internal components, reduce fuel efficiency, and can eventually lead to engine failure.

If you’re constantly driving at low speeds – especially for short journeys – your engine never gets hot enough to burn off carbon deposits. Over time, this can lead to a build-up inside your valves, pistons and exhaust system.

Known as “black death” because of its thick, dark appearance, the deposits are a by-product of unburnt fuel and poor engine circulation. Left unchecked, they can harden and cause serious damage.

In the worst-case scenario, carbon build-up can cause your engine to seize – and replacing that could cost thousands.

Thankfully, there’s a simple solution – and it doesn’t cost a penny.

Modern engines are designed to be run at higher speeds from time to time. Taking your car for a steady drive on the motorway helps heat the engine fully and allows fuel to clean and lubricate components.

Petrol, when forced through the system at higher pressure, can act as a natural solvent – cleaning valves and piston rings as it goes.

Another warning sign to look out for is white foam or froth under the oil cap, which could indicate water condensation in the engine oil, often caused by short trips where the engine doesn’t heat up properly.

If you take your oil cap off and notice a milky substance, that’s usually a sign your engine isn’t getting hot enough to burn off moisture. It’s not necessarily a serious fault, but it can lead to long-term problems if ignored.

Again, a regular long-distance drive at a steady speed can resolve the issue. When you drive at motorway speed for 45 minutes to an hour, the heat generated by the engine is enough to evaporate condensation and prevent that build-up. Keeping up with maintenance and using preventative measures like these can keep your vehicle in a better condition for longer, and hopefully save your bank balance from taking a big hit too.

Mechanics Warn Drivers to Beat Engine ‘Black Death’ with This Simple Habit

China has been a dominating force in manufacturing for decades, with many of the products we buy and use daily being made there. But, until recently, the same could not be said for cars; despite there being numerous Chinese car brands, they never really made much headway in any markets outside of Asia. 

However, with over 10% of new cars sold in the UK in 2025 being made in China, that is changing. Here is a rundown of some of the most notable brands, with some information about their current models. 

 has a long and varied history in the UK, first founded in the 1920s, they were famous for their open-top sports cars like the MG A and MG TF. The brand was owned by numerous companies throughout its life, but was finally bought by the current owner, SAIC, in 2011.

A full-scale re-launch, geared heavily towards cost-effective electric and hybrid cars, started in 2019. Since then, they have gone from strength to strength, with very successful models such as the MG5, MG HS and MG ZS.

SAIC, the owner of the MG Europe brand, is the biggest producer of cars in China, and has dozens of factories making both SAIC and MG-branded cars, for inside and outside of China, respectively. 

 was originally a battery manufacturer formed in 1995; they diversified into cars in the early 2000s. Their models are well known for their quirky design and names, notable mentions being the Seal, Sealion and Dolphin. 

Global sales in 2022 hit 1.8 million, making them a significant player internationally. Priced slightly higher than the likes of MG, and with a focus on luxurious interiors, they are targeting the higher end of this new market.

, was founded in 1997, but did not enter the UK market until 2024, with the Omoda 5 launch in March of that year. The brand is offering mid-level vehicles that offer a good amount of tech and luxury, but aren’t as expensive as some more luxury brands. 

Chery is the fourth largest vehicle manufacturer in China, and as such has many facilities across the country, its vehicle selection in the UK is currently limited to three models, the Omoda 5, the E5 and the Omoda 9. 

 came to the UK market ahead of most other Chinese brands, with their diesel powered Steed pickup truck in 2012. The Steed didn’t sell in great numbers, but the new ORA brand has. 

Their flagship vehicle being the ORA 3 (originally named the Funky Cat) which is a small, quirky city car, powered by a 170bhp electric motor. With prices starting at just under £25,000, it offers good value compared to the competition. 

GWM is also busy bringing another brand to the UK; HAVAL, which will specialise in SUVs and Crossovers. Their first car; the Jolion Pro. They have also teased what looks like a pickup truck too.

As seems to be common with all the brands discussed here, 

is another offshoot from a larger company, with the aim of targeting a different market. The parent company, Geely, is one of the larger car makers in China, and actually owns a few well-known “European” brands such as Polestar, Volvo and Lotus.

Zeekr is primarily focussed on the luxury market, with three cars in their current lineup, the most notable, the 001, is bucking the trend slightly by offering a shooting brake style 5 door, reminiscent of a larger Porsche Panamera.

The AWD performance model has over 500hp, putting it squarely in the high-end performance EV category. Other models include the angular Zeekr X (expected late 2025) and the 7X to come sometime after that. 

What are the top Chinese car brands?

When the temperature starts to climb in the summer, your car feels it too. Engines overheat. Air cons give up. And let’s not even talk about accidentally touching the metal on your seatbelt. 

Whether you're commuting or road-tripping, driving in a UK heatwave takes a bit of prep. Here are 5 tips to make your drive a little bit easier when the temps start rising. 

Driving in a heatwave can quickly go from uncomfortable to unbearable, unless you know how to keep your car (and yourself) cool.

Parking in the right spot can make a massive difference in a heatwave. Look for shade wherever you can find it: under trees, beside tall buildings – it might even be worth paying to park in a multi-storey car park. Even partial shade keeps your cabin temperature down and protects the interior from UV damage. 

No shade around? Make your own! A reflective windscreen cover can knock several degrees off your car’s internal temperature. You can also throw a towel across your steering wheel to stop it from heating up too much.

Open all the doors (or at least the front windows) and let that trapped heat escape for a minute or two. You’ll be surprised by how much cooler it feels straight away. This also gives your air con a better head start. Instead of working overtime, it can kick into action fast and more efficiently, keeping you cooler and allowing for better fuel efficiency when driving in a heatwave.

Once it starts to cool, close the window and switch the A/C to ‘Recirculation Mode’. This stops hot outside air from coming in and focuses and cools the air faster, taking less effort from the A/C and saving you fuel. This is especially important if you’re stuck in traffic or on a long drive. 

 If your car has a ‘max A/C’ button, use it to blast cool air through your car quickly. Once comfortable, dial it back to normal to stay comfortable without overworking the system. 

Are your car seats made of leather, vinyl or a dark fabric? These can absorb and trap heat especially well. And once they’re hot, they stay hot – not great if you’re driving in a heatwave. 

That’s where a cooling seat cover comes in. These handy add-ons reflect heat, improve airflow, and make your seats feel instantly cooler to the touch. Some even plug in and use fans to circulate air around your back and legs. No matter if you have a high-tech ventilated cushion or just a simple breathable mesh cover, they’re a simple, affordable way to make driving in a heatwave much more bearable.

5. Keep your fuel tank at least half full 

No one likes seeing the low fuel light, but it’s even more of an issue when driving in a heatwave. When the tank’s nearly empty, the heat can make your fuel evaporate faster, creating vapour and adding pressure on your fuel system. On top of that, your fuel pump needs to stay cool, which it does by sitting in the fuel itself. Less fuel means less cooling, which can make the pump overheat and wear out quicker. 

Before you go anywhere, give your car a few simple checks to save you from getting stuck later:

These small checks only take a few minutes but can make a big difference when driving in a heatwave, helping you keep cool and stopping small issues from turning into expensive problems.

Advice