Alastair Shephard

Content Writer

Alastair Shephard | Author

Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Joseph Law | Author

If your car’s air conditioning has started to smell damp, musty, or even burnt, it could be more than just an unpleasant whiff; it might be the early sign of a serious problem. Failing to act quickly could result in a much bigger bill later down the road.

While many drivers assume a bad smell is harmless, the reality is quite different. One of the most common causes of a foul smell from your air conditioning is the build-up of mould or bacteria inside the system. This tends to happen when the system hasn’t been used for a while or hasn’t been serviced properly.

Moisture inside the unit – particularly around the evaporator coil – creates the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Once that bacteria takes hold, every time you switch the air conditioning on, it circulates musty air through the cabin.

More concerning, however, is the presence of a burning or electrical smell, which may point to something more dangerous. That kind of odour can suggest overheating components or wiring faults. These are far more serious and shouldn’t be ignored – it’s definitely time to book in with a qualified mechanic.

If the smell is mild and not accompanied by any other warning signs, drivers can sometimes tackle it themselves. Cleaning the drain pan and evaporator coil may help reduce odours, especially if it’s simply stale air. But if the smell sticks around or worsens, don’t try to mask it – get a professional opinion before more damage is done.

Neglecting early warning signs can prove costly. Something as simple as mould can eventually damage components if left untreated. What could have been a low-cost clean-up might turn into a complete system replacement.

Often, what stops people from acting fast is the cost. We know that unexpected car repairs can cause financial strain, which is why we offer interest-free monthly payment plans. It means drivers can get their cars sorted straight away without putting it off due to cost.

The message is clear: if your air conditioning smells off, don’t ignore it. It might just need a clean – or it might be something much more serious. Either way, you’ll save money and stress by sorting it sooner rather than later.

Why Your Car’s Air Conditioning Smells – and How to Fix It!

Many people buy electric cars primarily for the cost saving, the thought being that not having to buy expensive petrol or diesel will save them thousands over the course of a year. But with recent tax changes, and away-from-home charging rising in price, what really is the cost of running a Tesla Model 3?

Road tax, or to use its proper name, Vehicle Excise Duty, is a tax on using motor vehicles on a public road. The rate to be paid depends on a few factors, including the age of the vehicle and its environmental impact. There is also a different rate for the first year a car is on the road.

Another thing to consider is the “luxury vehicle tax”, which is an extra charge on cars with a list price of over £40,000, and is an extra £425 for the first 5 years.

Thanks to its zero-emissions drivetrain, the first year VED on a new Model 3 is £10.

As all Model 3’s were first registered after March 2017 (the Model 3 was first available in the UK in 2019) 

According to the Tesla website, the base spec Model 3 comes in at just under the £40,000 limit; however, almost all cars will have been ordered with one of the many optional extras, putting it above the limit.

The Model 3, therefore, will almost always incur the 

Insurance is calculated by risk, both the risk of your car being stolen and the risk of you having an accident. All cars are sorted into an 

 when put on sale, and this gives a pretty good indicator of what the insurance costs will be. 

The base spec, short-range and 2WD Model 3s are insurance group 38; however, the long-range, or performance models are typically in group 50, which is the highest and most expensive group.

Because insurance varies so much from person to person, with location playing a massive factor too, it’s best to get some indicative insurance quotes that are tailored to you, but be prepared to pay relatively high premiums.

This is the area where you would expect an electric vehicle to do very well, but it is heavily influenced by the places you charge, and your home electricity tariff.

*assuming an electricity rate of 34p / kWh, and charging to 100%

**assuming a 67p / kW rate, charging to 80%

The above figures show it is much cheaper to charge at home, but this isn’t very useful without knowing how many miles you get per charge. Especially in the case of the supercharger stations, where most people only charge to 80% (as charging from 80-100% takes a very long time).

This data is taken from real-world figures of owners, and will depend heavily on the style of driving, the conditions and the health of the battery.

You may remember a few years ago, Tesla offered free supercharging; some people think this applies to all Tesla cars, unfortunately, that's not the case. 

Free supercharging only came on selected models, and only when it was selected as an option from the dealership. It was never available on Model 3’s, only the Model S and X.

However, as Tesla offers the chance to “sell” the supercharging perk back to them when you’re changing cars, not many cars are left with this perk.

One of the biggest advantages of an electric car is its simplicity. They have very few moving parts, so unlike petrol or diesel cars, they don’t have engine oil, air filters, oil filters or fuel filters to change. 

Even brake pads rarely need changing, thanks to the regenerative braking doing most of the stopping. This massively cuts down on servicing costs.

The two things you do need to remember, even with an electric car, are the tyres and the brake fluid. Tyres should be changed 

 - usually when they get below 3mm tread depth. 

Depending on your driving style, EVs tend to be heavier on tyre wear as they typically have more weight and power than a typical petrol or diesel 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.

Tesla Model 3 Running Costs UK

We're highlighting a range of budget-friendly SUVs, ideal for families looking for space, efficiency, and everyday comfort. And best of all, they're all typically available for under £10,000.

Many families need vehicles that are spacious, economical, and stylish, and SUVs in this price range really tick all those boxes. You don’t need to break the bank to find something practical that still feels modern and well-equipped.

The Kia Sportage has earned a strong reputation for being one of the most dependable and family-friendly SUVs on the market. With its bold styling and well-laid-out cabin, it's perfect for day-to-day use and longer road trips.

The Kia Sportage is a superb choice for families, with its spacious design, solid build quality and low running costs. Its elevated seating position offers excellent visibility, and many models come with useful features such as Bluetooth, cruise control and air conditioning.

The Renault Kadjar is known for its modern design and tech-forward features, making it ideal for families who want practicality with a touch of sophistication. It offers a comfortable ride with generous space for both passengers and luggage.

Families will love the Kadjar’s blend of practicality and technology. It often includes features like touchscreen infotainment systems, smartphone integration, and driver assistance tools, all wrapped in a sleek, modern design.

The Mazda CX-5 stands out for combining a premium feel with impressive driving dynamics. Its interior is thoughtfully designed with family use in mind, while the ride quality is smooth and refined.

The Mazda CX-5 is known for its smooth performance and spacious interior, making it an ideal family vehicle. It’s also one of the more fuel-efficient options in its class, making it a smart long-term investment for households.

The MG ZS offers excellent value for money and has grown in popularity thanks to its modern features and user-friendly design. It’s a compact SUV that punches above its weight in terms of interior quality and practicality.

The MG ZS brings a fresh, youthful feel to the SUV market. With its smart infotainment systems and thoughtful interior layout, it’s a strong option for families who want something modern and reliable.

The Ford EcoSport is a compact SUV that delivers flexibility, especially for families navigating city and suburban life. Its higher driving position and versatile seating make it suitable for school runs, shopping trips, and weekend getaways.

The Ford EcoSport is a practical choice with its compact, roomy design. It’s easy to drive, offers great visibility, and often comes with tech features that keep everyone connected and comfortable.

Stylish SUVs That Are ‘Economical’ and Perfect for Families for Under £10,000

Looking for a stylish and reliable car that fits your budget? Car repair finance experts at Bumper have highlighted three standout hatchbacks that typically retail for under £10,000 - offering great value for drivers who don’t want to compromise on quality or driving enjoyment.

Many people think sporty means expensive, but there are some fantastic hatchbacks that combine a fun driving experience with low running costs. These models are ideal for everyday use while still delivering sharp design and responsive performance."

The Vauxhall Corsa is a longstanding favourite among British drivers thanks to its compact size, affordability, and punchy styling. With its sporty silhouette and comfortable ride, it's a strong contender for those looking for a city-friendly car with personality.

The Corsa blends urban practicality with youthful design and reliability. It’s well-suited for first-time buyers or anyone seeking a stylish daily runaround with low maintenance costs.

The Volkswagen Polo is well known for offering premium touches in a compact package. Praised for its build quality and refined driving feel, it stands out in the hatchback market as a more grown-up option without the premium price tag.

The Polo delivers a smooth, confident ride and feels like a step above many competitors in terms of interior finish and comfort. It’s a brilliant option for drivers who want a practical hatchback that still feels refined and well-equipped.

The BMW 1 Series brings a sporty, rear-wheel-drive experience to the hatchback category - a rarity at this price point. With bold styling and a reputation for strong performance, it’s perfect for drivers who want a more engaging, dynamic feel on the road.

The 1 Series stands out for those wanting something a bit more premium. It offers responsive handling, a well-crafted interior, and that iconic BMW driving experience in a more accessible package.

3 Sporty Hatchbacks You Can Buy Right Now for Under £10,000

With the most recent heatwaves behind us for now, the UK now seems to be bracing for a fresh wave of unsettled summer weather. According to the Met Office, we’re likely to see a mix of heavy rain, thunderstorms, and sudden drops in temperature.

And while the dramatic skies might look impressive from indoors, getting caught in a storm behind the wheel is a very different story. Between poor visibility, surface water, gusty winds and lightning overhead, driving during a thunderstorm can be seriously dangerous if you’re not prepared.

The good news is that a few simple tips can help you stay safe, stay in control, and avoid unnecessary risk, whatever the weather throws your way.

1. Check the UK thunderstorm weather warning and prep

If a thunderstorm is on the forecast, the safest choice is usually just to delay your trip. If you can’t avoid making the trip, preparation is your best friend. Check the latest weather updates before you set off, and make sure your car is ready to handle rough conditions. That means:

Plan your route and avoid low-lying or flood-prone roads. If you’ve got a sat nav or route planner, now’s the time to use it. Stick to main roads where possible, as they’re more likely to be gritted, drained, and better lit. Pay extra attention to your tyres – if they have low tread, it might be worth 

 before making any long journeys in the rain.

Rain and surface water can reduce tyre grip, resulting in longer stopping distances and a greater risk of skidding. This is also known as “hydroplaning” and can cause serious accidents in wet weather. 

So, how do you avoid hydroplaning? The same way you would during any wet weather: Slow down to give yourself more time to react and keep your distance – ideally, double the usual space between you and the car in front. In storms, a wider gap could mean the difference between stopping safely and rear-ending someone. 

Bonus tip: Cruise control is not your friend during a storm. If there is standing water on the road, you want to be in command of your speed and braking, so stay away from cruise control. 

3. Make sure you can see (and other people can see you)

When the rain's beating down, visibility drops fast, so switch on your headlights – not full beam, you don’t want to dazzle other drivers – low or dipped beams are your best bet. If things are especially bad, fog lights can help you see and be seen, but don’t forget to turn them off if visibility starts to improve.

Your windscreen wipers should also be up for the job. If they’ve been squeaking, smearing, or skipping, make sure you’ve replaced them before driving out in a storm. 

 might be inconvenient, but poor visibility through a rain-streaked windscreen is a disaster waiting to happen.

are visible to other drivers, and that you’re signalling your intentions – especially on the motorway. Use your indicators early and give everyone around you time to react if you’re slowing down, changing lanes, or turning off. In other words: don’t leave people guessing.

4. Know when to pull over and wait it out

If a storm gets too intense (we’re talking strong winds, blinding rain, and lightning overhead), it’s time to put a pause on the journey.

Find a safe spot to pull over, like a lay-by or service area, and turn off your engine. Stay in the car with your windows up, headlights off or on low beam, and wait for the worst to pass. 

Avoid stopping under trees or bridges. They might look like potential shelter, but they can instantly become high-risk zones during storms. Trees can be struck by lightning, causing branches to fall without warning. Bridges and underpasses might bring some protection from rain, but they can also become wind tunnels or flood traps in extreme weather.

Bottom line: what looks like shelter can be a hotspot for unexpected storm damage. You’re much safer in an open area where you’re not at risk from falling debris, water build-up, or any electrical hazards.

5. Your car is your best lightning shelter

Here’s some good news: if you’re caught in a lightning storm, your car is actually one of the safest places to be. That’s because it directs the lightning around the outside of the vehicle and safely into the ground.

It’s only safe to drive in a thunderstorm if you’re prepared and know the risks. Storms bring poor visibility, reduced road grip, and unpredictable winds, all of which make accidents more likely.

If conditions get too severe, don’t push on. Pull over somewhere safe, stay inside the car with windows closed, and wait for the storm to pass. Your car is one of the safest places to be in lightning – just not necessarily while it’s moving. 

If the worst happens and your car needs repairs after the downpour, don’t let a big upfront bill add more stress. With Bumper’s 

, you can split the cost into interest-free monthly instalments, so you stay in control of your budget. We’ve partnered with 5,000+ trustworthy garages across the UK, and applying online is easier than ever – 

The 30/30 rule is a simple way to stay safe during thunderstorms. It goes like this:

This rule helps reduce your risk of being struck by lightning, especially during fast-moving UK summer storms. If you’re driving and hear thunder within that 30-second window, stay inside your car as it acts as a protective barrier against lightning. 

While you can’t stop lightning from striking, you can reduce your risk while driving in a storm: 

Top 5 tips for driving in a thunderstorm

Although they also make hatchbacks, SUVs and trucks, the one style of car Mercedes is most known for is their executive saloons. The E-Class is their mid-size saloon, which competes with the BMW 5 Series and Audi A6. 

Mercedes has a reputation for being well-engineered and made, with older models being used the world over as taxis for decades - but does the new E-Class live up to this hype?

After finishing 3rd place in WhatCar?’s reliability survey for luxury vehicles, you would think the E-Class is pretty reliable; however, the brand as a whole finished 24th out of 31. This may be due to the type of cars it was up against in the luxury car class, compared to the likes of Toyota and Honda in the general category.

Recalls are made to fix a manufacturing or design fault that was picked up after the cars had been sold. This requires the owners to bring them back to the dealership, for the remedial work to be done. 

Recall work is not charged to the owner of the car, and is paid for by the manufacturer. To check if your car has outstanding recalls, visit the 

12v Battery may not remain secure in a crash

The 12v battery on the current generation of E-Class is secured by a fixing strap, and is located in the boot. Some models were fitted with an insufficient attachment method, causing the battery to become unsecure. 

The fix is relatively simple, requiring an additional fixation being attached to the battery, which would be done free of charge at a Mercedes dealer. This fault affected around 3,600 cars.

In 4 separate recalls, spanning from 2022 to 2024, multiple issues were detected with the attachment of the wiring harness to the body of the car.

In total this affected around 3,500 cars. However, because they are issued on separate recalls it is difficult to tell if some cars will be affected by the same recall notices. 

As you'd expect, the recall work involves simply fixing the wiring connectors and clips to make sure they are up to specification. As the wiring will be either under the car or buried behind many interior trim panels, expect the dealer to need your car for a few days at least.

Numerous owners have complained of a similar issue, causing an engine warning light on the dash, and in extreme cases a limp-home activation. In this case these were caused by a faulty sensor in the exhaust system. 

It is likely this was a lambda sensor, something that reads the oxygen level in the exhaust gases, something that is vital for the ECU to understand how well the engine is running. A faulty lambda sensor is likely to cause error codes. 

To give an incredibly smooth yet dynamic ride, certain trim levels of the E-class are fitted with air suspension. This is not a new thing in the world of luxury cars, but it almost always becomes a bone of contention, especially as the cars get older. 

Issues arise when the system begins leaking or malfunctioning, which can result in a harsh, uncomfortable ride and sometimes require immediate attention. Whilst most W213 models (the current generation) are unlikely to experience major faults, it is something that adds complexity.

Ranging from transmission ECU problems, infotainment issues, and general wiring niggles, there are a few instances of owners requiring extensive work under warranty to repair electrical problems. 

It’s unclear if these things are related to the wiring recalls listed above or are just a symptom of cars being more and more complex nowadays.

The market for executive saloons is well stocked, with options from Audi, BMW and Lexus, but Mercedes is probably the first port of call for most. Therefore, if you’re looking for something that gives a certain impression, the above issues are probably not much to worry about, especially if your car will still be under warranty. 

That last point, the car being under warranty, is something I would not overlook. With Mercedes dealer repairs being some of the most expensive, you’ll certainly not want to be fixing major issues out of your own pocket.

Mercedes-Benz E Class Reliability Guide

Ford stopped making the Fiesta in 2023, which surprised many as it was one of the most popular cars on sale the year prior. Made from 1976 to 2023, with simplicity, practicality and driving in mind, they appealed to everyone from retirees to new drivers, and all in between. 

Through making so many cars, they must have perfected the reliability down to a tee? Kind of, although they were well regarded as being reliable, the later Fiestas did gain notoriety for an issue relating to the cambelt design. Read on to get the full picture on the Fiesta’s reliability.

In the 2023 What Car? Reliability survey, the Fiesta placed 12th out of 19 cars, Ford as a whole did a little better, though not by much, at 14th out of 31. This puts the Fiesta around average compared to other cars in its class. 

Recalls are manufacturer issued repair orders that can affect any number of cars, they are usually the result of a manufacturing or design issue that is likely to cause a safety issue. 

Recalls are paid for by the manufacturer, and repair work is typically carried out at the dealership. To check if your car is affected by a recall, use the 

Failure of Brake System Vacuum Assistance

All modern cars have vacuum assisted brakes, this system reduces the amount of force needed on the brake pedal from the driver, to get maximum braking force from the brakes. It makes hard braking a lot easier, and on average, reduces stopping distances.

A recall was issued for quite a large number of Fiestas, whereby the vacuum pump that powers this system may fail. Whilst this will not result in a loss of braking, it will make it harder to use the brakes.

According to Ford, this issue may affect around 56,800 cars, so be sure to check your car, or any car you’re interested in buying. 

In 2016, a recall was issued for a potential fire risk on around 41,000 cars. It related to the glow plug control module, something essential to the running of a diesel engined vehicle.

The modules received a permanent electrical supply from the cars battery, but the casing of the unit was not properly waterproofed, causing the potential for an electrical short, eventually leading to a fire. 

Because this issue was from a permanent live wire, it could happen even when the vehicles were parked.

A relatively small number of Fiestas came with an automatic gearbox, it was termed the Powershift Gearbox, a name Ford uses on many of its automatic vehicles. 

Issues have been reported from a large number of owners, of clunky changes, poor efficiency and even complete loss of drive. A gearbox specialist has a blog post dedicated to helping owners of this gearbox and suggests some possible causes.

Sensors in the box have a tendency to become clogged and no longer effective, which confuses the control module, causing it to make unpredictable changes. In some cases the control module itself can be faulty, if this is the case it's prudent to expect a large repair bill. 

“Sync 3” Infotainment System Glitches

Ford’s Sync system is another thing that is shared across many car models. It is their own developed user interface providing the driver everything from climate controls to navigation to car settings. 

Users reported issues connecting their phone to the Apple Car Play, glitches with the touchscreen, and general system performance including freezes and lagging menu options. Something that is incredibly frustrating if you need to adjust something whilst on the move such as the climate controls.

Mention an Ecoboost Ford to many people and they’ll bring up the “wet belt” issue. This refers to the cambelt, that whilst normally just runs in air, in certain EcoBoost models is lubricated by the engine oil.

The purpose of this is to reduce friction and increase overall engine efficiency, but unfortunately on a lot of models, the belt material degrades and deposits particles into the engine oil. 

This, if left unchecked, can cause oil pressure problems, as the debris clogs up the oil pump pickup. In serious cases, this can cause irreparable damage to the engine.

However, many EcoBoost engines don’t even use a wet belt, and it’s often possible to avoid major issues if your car does have one. To reduce the risks posed by a wet belt:

Ford Fiesta Reliability Guide

Sporty hatchbacks offer a compelling mix of practicality, style, and reliability, all for under £10,000.

Sporty hatchbacks are a fantastic blend of performance and everyday usability. These cars are fun to drive but also practical enough for daily commutes and family outings.

The Fiat 500 has carved out a niche as one of the most recognisable and charming city cars on the road. It delivers nimble handling, compact dimensions for easy parking, and a stylish retro design that appeals across generations.

Ideal for city and suburban drivers, the Fiat 500 typically comes with small but efficient engines and low running costs. Despite its compact size, it offers a surprisingly spacious cabin for two adults and rear passengers. Many models also include modern features such as a touchscreen, smartphone connectivity, and air conditioning.

The Ford Fiesta is widely regarded as one of the best-handling superminis available, with sharp steering and responsive engines that make it genuinely enjoyable to drive.

Whether you choose an EcoBoost petrol or a diesel variant, most models deliver strong performance with impressive fuel efficiency. It’s also one of the most spacious hatchbacks in its class, with a comfortable interior and a well-thought-out dashboard layout.

Many Fiestas under £10,000 include top-level trims with added features like cruise control, heated seats, and driver assistance systems, making it a versatile choice for both first-time buyers and experienced motorists.

The Peugeot 108 stands out as a lightweight, stylish and tech-friendly hatchback that’s ideal for city life. It’s known for its ease of use, excellent visibility, and low-cost ownership.

Thanks to its efficient petrol engine, the 108 is a favourite among drivers who want affordable motoring without sacrificing comfort or design. You’ll often find models with a reversing camera, Bluetooth, and touchscreen infotainment even at entry-level prices. The compact footprint makes it ideal for tight parking spots, yet it still delivers a decent driving experience.

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