Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Alastair Shephard

Content Writer

When a starter motor fails, it can be a costly repair. But before you say yes to a deal, make sure you understand the standard UK costs and what to expect from the service. It's always a good idea to know before you go! 

In this blog post, we'll tell you the average cost of a starter motor replacement in the UK and provide tips on extending your starter motor's life. Scroll down to become an expert on starter motor repair now. 

Starter motor costs in the UK - The rundown

 starter motor in the UK can range from £150-£400

 depending on the make and model of the car. 

Before we jump into FAQs and information about starter motor repairs, we’ll cover the common costs per vehicle brand to help you budget for your repair. It is important to note that there may be additional costs, such as labour fees or parts fees, depending on the garage you select. 

Average starter motor replacement cost by car model

Here are the average costs based on the most popular vehicle brands in the UK. . 

If you're worried about an expensive car repair bill, then Bumper could help. Split the cost with 

Average starter motor replacement cost by UK location

Starter motor repair costs in the UK vary depending on where you live. This is due to labour costs, parts and materials availability, and service demand. 

Below you’ll find averages per UK region. 

Starter motors power the combustion engine. They are like the electric motors that turn your engine on when you 

The starter motor requires a lot of torque to turn the engine at such fast speeds, pulling 

and air into the cylinders to compress them simultaneously. 

The starter is found on the driver's side of the engine. Typically, it's just beneath the left bank of cylinders. 

How do you know if your starter motor has gone?

There are a few key signs your starter motor has gone. 

If your car won't start and you hear a clicking sound when trying to turn it on, the most likely cause of this is a dead starter motor. 

, you might smell something burning from under the hood. This is typically caused by an electrical short in the starter motor, which can be due to wear and tear over time. 

Here’s a complete list of signs your starter motor has broken: 

Replacing the starter motor will usually solve these issues, but it comes at a cost, so make sure you know how much it may cost before committing to any repairs. 

Common starter motor problems are caused by age and faulty parts. Here’s a quick overview of other possible causes: 

If you suspect your vehicle has any of these issues, consult a garage for professional advice. 

average lifespan of a starter motor is around 5 years or 50,000 miles

. However, this can vary depending on how 

 your car is and how much wear and tear your starter motor experiences. 

Can you extend your starter motor’s life?

Yes, you can and should check and maintain your starter motor. This keeps you safe while on the road and protects your finances from surprise repair costs. 

To extend the life of your starter motor, you can: 

How long does it take a mechanic to replace a starter motor?

to replace a starter motor. This time may differ depending on the garage and your car model. 

Various car components, such as the battery, alternator, and engine cover, must be disassembled to access the starter motor. This process can take some time, depending on how difficult it is to remove each component from its place. 

Once all of these parts have been removed, a mechanic or experienced DIYer should be able to locate and replace the faulty starter motor with relative ease. It is important that any new parts are fitted correctly in order for them to work properly and not cause further damage down the line. 

Once the old starter motor has been removed, the new starter motor needs to be connected to the car’s wiring system and secured. 

After replacement, it is recommended that an expert mechanic thoroughly check all other surrounding components just in case anything else has been affected during the repair. 

Is it safe to drive with a faulty starter motor?

Once a vehicle is running, you don't need your starter motor. So, if it has become faulty while driving, there shouldn't be any immediate danger. However, when you come to a stop, it becomes a problem. 

If the starter motor is not working correctly, restarting your car will be difficult as starting requires more power than regular operation. 

We strongly advise against parking your car facing down a hill and trying to bump-start it each time you need to use it. A repair or replacement of the faulty starter motor should always be considered over attempting this kind of workaround solution. 

Replacing a starter motor can be expensive, but with 

, you can extend its life and reduce the need for costly repairs. If you think your starter motor may have gone, it is essential to get it checked out by a professional as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your car. 

Repairing a starter motor in the UK - Final thoughts

Researching potential car repairs is no one’s idea of a good time, but we hope this blog has made your starter motor repair easier to understand. Consider shopping around for different rates before settling on one garage, and make sure your vehicle is 100% road-safe before you drive. 

Here at Bumper, we know a hefty car repair bill for a starter motor is probably the last thing you want to spend your money on, but essential parts such as these are crucial for you and your family’s safety. 

Look after your car and your bank balance by splitting the cost of repairs into monthly instalments, interest-free. Apply for 

Join the Bumper community and get access to the best care for you and your car. Choose a dependable dealership and split your repair bill into monthly chunks. 

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

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

How Much Does A Starter Motor Replacement Cost?

¿Cuánto cuesta sustituir un motor de arranque?

Wie viel kostet ein neuer Anlasser?

You may have heard of AdBlue if you've owned or driven a diesel car since 2015 or an HGV since 2009. But do you know why it's added to a diesel vehicle? Don't worry if the answer is no. That's why we're here to help. 

In this blog, we'll discuss what AdBlue is, what it is used for, what it's made from, the typical AdBlue injector replacement cost in the UK, and whether your car needs AdBlue. No stone will be left unturned! Scroll down to become an expert ASAP. 

AdBlue is a liquid that reduces harmful emissions in diesel cars.

 It is stored in a separate tank, similar to the fuel tank, and requires filling, either by the driver or as part of a maintenance service. 

It’s actually called Diesel Exhaust Fluid (or DEF) as AdBlue is a brand name.

AdBlue is needed because it reduces nitrogen oxides (NOx) from a car’s exhaust pipe. 

The Euro emissions regulations are updated every few years to improve the air quality around Europe. In 2015, the newest regulation, Euro 6, came into effect. 

This new set of regulations came with more stringent rules on the harmful emissions diesel-engined cars are allowed to emit, particularly NOx. This is a factor in clear air zones worldwide, including London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). 

AdBlue reduces the level of these pollutants by acting as a catalyst inside the SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) system to ensure as much Nox is burned off and transformed into harmless water and oxygen. 

AdBlue is a liquid that consists predominantly of water and urea in roughly a 70/30 mix. Other additives and chemicals are added to stabilise and colour the fluid. 

No. AdBlue is not made from pigs’ urine – this is a common myth. 

The urea added to make the product is entirely synthetic. 

Whilst urea is present in urine from all animals, humans and pigs included, no animal by-products are used in making AdBlue. 

The main reason is that the SCR system is extremely sensitive to impurities. The extra compounds found in urine would cause many issues with your car's exhaust system. 

How much does the AdBlue injector replacement cost in the UK?

An AdBlue injector replacement cost in the UK costs between £120 to £160.

However, this cost can be affected by how many fuel injectors your car needs and what type of car you have. The cost can also vary from country to country. So, make sure you're looking at prices for the right country. 

The SCR system in diesel cars was introduced to reduce the emission of Nox pollutants. It does this by combining an exhaust fluid, with the stream of hot exhaust gases inside a catalytic converter. 

AdBlue is one of the most common DEFs (Diesel Exhaust Fluids) and is fed from a separate tank, usually stored near the diesel tank, to be injected into the exhaust. 

When operating properly, an SCR system (Selective Catalytic Reduction) combined with an 

 system can reduce harmful Nox emissions by up to 

If you run out of AdBlue, the engine’s performance and power will be limited to reduce emissions. 

Cars that require the addition of AdBlue do so because their SCR systems cannot function without it. Any diesel car made after 2015 is allowed to exhaust a certain level of Nox pollution. 

Many cars, therefore, will go either into a reduced power mode, also known as a limp home mode or refuse to start together if no AdBlue is present. 

That is why keeping a small bottle in your car and other essentials is a good idea, just in case you’re caught short. 

Cars use AdBlue at different rates. Most need to travel several thousand miles to use an AdBlue tank. Some can even travel up to 10,000 miles before running out. 

In contrast to a common myth, AdFuel doesn’t burn extra fuel. Your fuel usage will remain the same as normal, even when using this product. 

What happens if you put diesel in an AdBlue tank? 

Fuel will be injected into the exhaust catalyst system, and your car will be damaged. 

This is a costly mistake, as diesel Exhaust Fuels are specifically designed to be used in a separate system from regular diesel fuel. The AdBlue should not enter the engine under any circumstances. 

AdBlue tank filler caps are often located in the fuel filler door. The filler hole is too small to allow diesel to be put in, but an AdBlue bottle could be put into the diesel tank.

If you accidentally put AdBlue in your diesel tank, call your emergency roadside assistance as soon as possible, and don’t drive the car more than absolutely necessary. 

A small amount of AdBlue could probably be diluted into the fuel to cause no issue, but it’s best to get a professional opinion in your particular situation. 

How often do you need to fill up AdBlue? 

You only need to buy and refill your AdBlue once yearly for the average car travelling 9-10,000 miles a year. 

Although different cars use different amounts of AdBlue, a typical tank will hold 15 litres of fluid and should last around 9,000 miles. 

If you’re worried about your AdBlue levels and aren’t sure what to do, you can easily take your car for an 

 where they will perform all the basic checks and look after your levels. 

Yes, you can fill your car with AdBlue yourself. Two main systems on vehicles are fitted with AdBlue: user-fillable and service-filled. 

To fill it yourself, you must use the separate filler cap for AdBlue, which is usually located next to the main diesel filler, in the boot, or sometimes in the car bonnet. 

Some other cars have a hidden filling system, usually under the boot carpet. These systems are designed to be filled by the service centre at your regular service intervals. 

Your car will show an alert on the dashboard display or system screen if it needs an AdBlue refill. 

If you’re unsure of which system your car uses or are borrowing or renting a car and the owner didn’t tell you whether to add in AdBlue, there are several key things to look out for: 

You can reset an AdBlue warning alert by refilling the AdBlue tank. Once complete, the alert should disappear. If it doesn’t, drive for a few miles to allow the system to reset. 

If the warning doesn’t disappear after 10 miles, there might be an issue with the AdBlue sensors. Your vehicle’s manual should have more information about this. But if not, you should schedule an appointment with a mechanic. 

Most diesel cars that meet Euro 6 standards need AdBlue. However, some of them rely on alternative systems to reduce NOx emissions. 

You can figure out if your car uses AdBlue by looking for the word “blue” or the letters “SCR” on your car’s manual. For example, Fords have an EcoBlue badge, Citroen diesels are named BlueHDi, and Volkwagons are called TDI SCR. 

If you can’t see Blue or SCR in the car’s information, check your fuel filler car for an AdBlue filler. 

Still trying to figure it out? Reach out to your dealer or manufacturer for a clear answer. 

No. Petrol cars don’t use AdBlue. This formula is only designed to reduce diesel emissions. 

Nope! AdBlue is not flammable or toxic and doesn’t harm the environment. 

That being said, you should still avoid touching it as it can irritate your skin. If spilt, dilute it with water and mop or wipe it up. You should clear AdBlue as soon as possible as it can be corrosive to some metals and plastics. 

Using AdBlue is a normal part of life as a diesel driver. However, if you’re new to diesel vehicles, it can be a little confusing. Hopefully, this guide has familiarized you with what AdBlue is and how it works. Save this page so you don’t lose any information! 

Spread the cost of car repairs into interest-free instalments with 1000s of trusted repairers. 

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.

AdBlue: Why does my car need it? 

If you're considering buying a car, one of the first considerations is your budget and how you'll pay for it. Should you buy a car with cash or take out car finance? And how can you 

Today, we're looking at two main types of car finance: hire purchase and PCP. 

We'll cover the PCP finance pros and cons, benefits and drawbacks of hire purchase, and how to make the decision. 

What is PCP (Personal Contract Purchase) car finance? 

PCP finances plots the car's value into monthly payments. At the end, you can keep, trade, or return it.

The monthly payments and deposit amount don’t pay off the car, though. Instead, they cover the predicted depreciation over the contract length. 

PCP can be settled with a lump sum (balloon payment) to own the car outright. Alternatively, if you’re not interested in keeping or upgrading the vehicle, you can simply return it and walk away at the end of the term.

Typically, PCP finance lasts for three to four years. But this may vary depending on your personal contract. 

Is getting a car on finance a good idea for you? Here are some of the pros and cons of PCP finance: 

PCP finance is a good option if you want to drive a new car every few years and can afford the monthly payments and deposit. 

It's important to understand the risks and terms before signing the agreement.

Hire purchase is the most straightforward way to finance a car. 

It requires you to make an initial deposit to become the ‘registered keeper’ of the car. Once complete, you make monthly payments towards the value of the vehicle. When these are finished, the finance company gives you outright ownership of the car. 

Hire purchase contracts typically range from two to five years. Is Hire Purchase a good idea? Keep reading to find out. 

Here are some of the pros and cons of Hire Purchase finance.

A Hire Purchase can be a good option if you want to own the car outright and can afford the higher upfront costs and monthly payments.

Be aware of risks like depreciation and fully understand the terms before signing.

Key differences between PCP and hire purchase

Before you make your decision, take a look at the main differences between PCP and hire purchases. 

PCP might seem cheaper at first thanks to its lower monthly payments, but it accumulates more interest than a hire purchase. Also, you may need to make a final balloon payment or cover wear and tear fees.

Hire purchase has higher monthly payments, but you own the car at the end and don’t encounter as many extra costs.

PCP vs hire purchase – which is best for you?

PCP offers flexible end-of-contract options and lower monthly payments, making it ideal if you don't want to own the car. 

With Hire Purchase, you pay a deposit and divide the remaining cost into higher monthly payments over up to five years. While you pay less interest, you own the car outright after the final payment, which is not as large as a PCP balloon payment.

Cost differences between Hire Purchase and PCP

The best way to see the cost difference between Hire Purchase and PCP is with a hypothetical situation. For example, let’s look at a £40,000 car with a 0% interest deal (possibly with PCP but not always with Hire Purchase). 

With a £10,000 deposit, and when the contract ends, the optional GMFV (Guaranteed Minimum Future Value) payment the PCP deal includes is £10,000.

This means you’ll have to pay off £30,000 in the Hire Purchase deal but only £20,000 in the PCP deal. For PCP, this is £555.55 a month or £833.33 with Hire Purchase.

But remember, at the end of the Hire Purchase deal, you own the car — but in the PCP, you won’t unless you pay the GMFV payment.

 To leave your car finance deal early, you have to have paid over 50% of the loan agreement off (including fees and interest). 

Ending your contract early is rarely advantageous unless you desperately need to.

You can also use a personal bank loan to finance a car.

Your ability to use a personal loan for a car depends on your credit limit, score, and the vehicle's cost. Consider fees and interest, as even 0% offers have expiration dates.

Car finance has pros and cons, and it will come down to your personal situation.

Buying a car on finance – what are the basic steps?

Ready to move forward? Here are the basic steps you can take to buy a car on finance.

Buying a car on finance spreads the financial load and keeps your savings intact, but you must find the right deal for your finances. Take time to explore the PCP and Hire Purchase pros and cons before making the big decision. 

Car replacement costs can be higher than expected and poorly timed, and that’s where Bumper comes in.

Split the cost of expensive car repairs into interest-free monthly repayments and find a reliable repairer in your area. 

Car Budgeting: Is Car Finance A Good Idea?

Spark plug replacement costs in the UK can range from £50 to £300. 

These plugs help start your car by creating little sparks that ignite the fuel in the engine, making the car run. They’re a vital part of the vehicle, so don’t leave repairs up to guesswork! 

Discover everything you need to know about spark plug replacement costs, including when to change them and what it will cost to buy and have them installed.

How much does a spark plug replacement cost?

On average, a complete spark plug replacement in the UK costs between £50 and £300, depending on the type of vehicle and the number of spark plugs required. 

The cost of a spark plug replacement comes down to the type and model of your vehicle. Luxury vehicles may require more expensive parts than standard models, while certain older cars may require specialised tools or engines for repair. 

Here's an idea of average costs in the UK for spark plugs for different cars and makes.

Spark plug replacement costs by make and model

Spark plug replacement costs can vary significantly depending on your car’s make and model. 

To give you a clear idea, here’s a guide to typical prices for popular vehicles in the UK. These may differ depending on your region and your car’s condition.

Labour costs associated with replacing spark plugs can also vary depending on how long it takes a mechanic to complete the job. Some jobs might take longer due to difficult-to-reach locations in some engine compartments or tight spaces between components. 

Beyond car makes and labour costs, advancements in vehicle technology, such as direct injection systems, can make spark plugs harder to access, potentially increasing labour time and costs. 

Additionally, the choice of spark plug brand and type can influence both parts and installation expenses.

If you’re worried about the costs of an expensive spark plug change, 

 can split these costs into interest-free repayments.

Spark plugs create sparks that ignite the air-fuel mixture in your engine, producing the explosions that power your car.

It goes without saying that they’re essential for starting your vehicle and keeping it running efficiently, so it’s important to keep them in good condition.

Most cars have between four and eight spark plugs, typically one per cylinder, with the exact number depending on the vehicle’s size and engine type. 

Electric cars, however, don’t need spark plugs at all, as their motors are powered entirely by batteries.

Most modern cars need their spark plugs replaced every 20,000–40,000 miles, or roughly every three years. 

Worn plugs can hurt performance and fuel economy, so check your owner’s manual or ask a mechanic if you’re unsure when to replace them.

Over time, spark plugs wear out due to age, heat, and vibration caused by the engine's operation over a prolonged period. 

To help your spark plugs last longer, adhere to your vehicle’s recommended service schedule, use the correct type of spark plugs for your car, and avoid harsh driving habits such as frequent rapid acceleration. 

Regular engine maintenance, such as checking ignition coils and keeping the engine clean, can also prevent excessive wear.

How do you know if your spark plugs need changing?

If you notice any of the following symptoms in your car, then your spark plugs might need changing: 

A faulty spark plug may cause your engine to misfire, which produces a stuttering, popping, or knocking sound. 

If you have a bad spark plug, you might also notice rough idling or unusual engine noises, especially when starting the car or driving at low speeds.

A good rule of thumb is to get your car checked whenever it starts making unusual sounds.

When spark plugs go bad, they can cause a variety of issues with your vehicle's performance. 

If a bad spark plug is not replaced, it can lead to further engine damage, which can mean very expensive repairs, such as:

Yes! Replacing your spark plugs comes with three main benefits:

It’s a simple, low-cost service that keeps your car running smoothly and helps prevent costly repairs down the line

No, when replacing spark plugs, it’s best to change the full set at once. 

Replacing them individually or one at a time can affect your engine’s balance and performance, so it’s not worth the risk.

What happens if you don't replace spark plugs?

If you don’t replace worn spark plugs, your engine may struggle to start or misfire more often. It may also generally lose power. These misfires put extra strain on engine components, such as the pistons and valves, causing them to wear out more quickly. 

You’ll also notice reduced fuel efficiency and higher emissions as the engine works harder to compensate. Over time, ignoring old spark plugs can lead to costly and potentially serious engine damage.

Replacing your own spark plugs is generally not recommended unless you are an experienced mechanic. 

However, if you choose to do it yourself, make sure you take all necessary safety precautions and follow the steps outlined in your vehicle's manual.

It can be tempting to replace your own spark plugs to save money and for convenience, but the task requires skill and knowledge. Doing it incorrectly could cause engine damage or even result in injury.

If you’re unsure, don’t attempt the repair!

Will new spark plugs make my car run better?

New spark plugs won’t automatically make your car run better if there are other problems, but they can boost engine performance and fuel efficiency if your old ones are worn or damaged. 

Other ways to keep your car performing well include keeping your tyres properly inflated and sticking to regular oil changes. Never skip your scheduled services!

Will replacing spark plugs improve acceleration?

Yes and no. Replacing worn or damaged spark plugs can help restore engine efficiency, which may improve acceleration. 

However, new spark plugs won’t increase speed beyond your car’s capabilities. They simply ensure the engine runs smoothly and responds better when you press the accelerator.

You can technically drive with a faulty spark plug, but it’s not recommended.

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