Alastair Shephard

Content Writer

Alastair Shephard | Author

Isobel Coughlan

Isobel Coughlan | Author

Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Joseph Law | Author

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 history 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.

A bad plug can cause misfires and reduced engine power and put extra strain on the vehicle, potentially leading to costly repairs or danger on the road if left unaddressed.

Spark plug replacement is an important part of routine car maintenance that can boost engine performance and improve fuel efficiency. It also helps to prevent costly repairs down the line.

So, although the spark plug replacement cost can sometimes be off-putting, it’s worth facing to save your wallet stress in the future!

A repair fee is the last thing you want to have to deal with, but essential parts like spark plugs are key for a safe drive.

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.

How Much Does A Spark Plug Replacement Cost?

Wie viel kostet ein Zündkerzenwechsel?

Alternator replacement costs in the UK range from £250 to £750. 

If your engine won’t start or you have a 

, your alternator may need replacing. This guide covers everything you need to know.

From the average labour and parts cost to finding a suitable garage, you’ll find answers to all common alternator replacement queries in 2026. Scroll down to learn more now.

The average cost of a new alternator is between £250 and £750, with the average price being around £525 in 2026.

The cost to replace an alternator depends on the car model and make, as well as the labour cost to replace the alternator in the UK. It works out at, on average, £150 to £250 pounds for the mechanic's time.

Here’s a breakdown of alternator repair costs per car type:

Average alternator costs per top 10 most popular car models

How much is an alternator for your car? See the top ten UK car model costs in 2026 below.

Average alternator costs per top 10 car manufacturers

To help give you an idea of average costs in the UK for alternators, we've rounded up different cost estimates for both 

See the table below for approximate alternator prices in 2026:

If you're worried about an expensive car repair bill, then Bumper can help split the cost with interest-free 

Alternators are one of the more expensive car parts to repair or replace. The average cost sits around £400 to £500, and it can go up depending on your car’s age, needs, make, and local garage prices.

If you own a premium car, this cost can easily exceed £750 depending on the complexity of the replacement and rarity of the car parts.

Can an alternator be repaired or does it need replacing?

In some cases, an alternator can be repaired, but this depends on the nature of the fault. 

Minor issues such as worn brushes, damaged wiring, or faulty connections may sometimes be fixed without replacing the full unit. 

However, in most situations, alternators are replaced rather than repaired. This is because:

As a result, full replacement is the most common solution for a failing alternator.

: Bumper suggests consulting a mechanic for an assessment if you’re unsure what your car requires.

How long does it take to replace an alternator?

Alternator replacement times in a reputable garage should take between

This average depends on the car, and other factors may cause the repair to be delayed. For example, other repairs may be needed, or the team might need to order specific parts. So, alongside asking how much is an alternator replacement, make sure you get a clear answer on replacement times.

The AA can help with alternator issues, but they can’t completely replace it on the roadside.

If called, the AA can offer temporary assistance, such as jump-starting your car to help you get on the move again. However, if your alternator is dead and needs a full replacement, they will help tow you to a nearby garage for repairs.

On average, alternators last between 80,000 to 150,000 miles. The distance ultimately depends on factors such as driving conditions and the quality of the alternator.

Harsh weather or high temperatures can reduce an alternator’s life, and lower-quality parts won’t last as long as sturdy alternatives. Likewise, regular driving and many short trips can stress the alternator more, leading to a smaller lifespan.

An alternator is an electrical device that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy in an internal combustion 

. It is typically found in cars, trucks, and other vehicles.

Don't worry if you're not 100% sure what an alternator does. Many only discover this part when it needs repairing.

The alternator is powered by a belt connected to the car engine, creating an alternating current of electricity when it spins. The electricity from the alternating current is then used to charge the car's battery and power the car's electrical system.

How do you tell if it’s the alternator or the battery?

Alternator and battery issues can cause very similar symptoms, which is why they are often confused. However, there are a few key differences that can help you narrow it down.

A battery issue is more likely if the car starts after a jump start, lights and electronics are dim or weak, or the battery repeatedly goes flat.

An alternator issue is more likely if the engine stalls shortly after starting or electrical systems fail while driving. It could also be the alternator if the battery warning light appears on the dashboard even after charging.

Can I carry out the alternator replacement myself?

No. It's best to leave alternator replacements to a qualified mechanic. While replacing an alternator yourself is possible, it is a complicated job requiring specialist tools.

You might save money on labour costs, but the risks don't outweigh the benefits. You need special tools for a start, and then, on top of all the expert mechanical knowledge needed, you might damage other components, making it more expensive in the long run!

Alternators usually fail due to wear and tear over time, but several specific issues can speed up the process.

It’s also worth noting that as alternators age, their ability to consistently charge the battery decreases, eventually leading to failure. Unfortunately, this issue cannot always be avoided. 

Regardless, Bumper reminds drivers to stay on top of routine maintenance and to drive responsibly.

What are the symptoms of a failing alternator?

Are you unsure if your alternator is failing? We’ve gathered the top signs that you need a repair to help you determine what’s going on with your vehicle.

Symptoms of a failing alternator include:

If your car is experiencing any of the symptoms of a failing alternator, it is recommended to have your alternator checked by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.

The decision to repair or replace your alternator requires careful consideration. Replacing an alternator can be expensive, and many drivers, understandably, want to save money where possible.

However, if you are mechanically inclined and have the right tools, you may be able to save some money by replacing the alternator yourself. 

Please only attempt this if you are very experienced with cars.

On the other hand, if it’s a relatively new car with a complex electrical system, it may be better to leave it to professionals.

Ultimately, whether it is worth fixing your alternator really depends on how much money you have available and how comfortable you are tackling such a job yourself.

No. We don't recommend driving a car with a faulty alternator, as it can damage

 other components and even lead to further damage

 to the engine due to a lack of power. This will leave you with higher repair costs and an unsafe vehicle.

A faulty alternator can cause various electrical issues within the car, which might not have caused such a problem thirty years ago. Still, most cars rely on electricity and computer components to run smoothly.

What’s more, a faulty alternator won’t be able to keep your car’s battery charged sufficiently, which can cause your fuel injectors to fail and your engine to stall.

A quick Google search can help you find a reputable garage for alternator repairs. However, always look at genuine customer reviews and shop around for different prices before deciding on one garage.

You can also ask friends and family for word-of-mouth recommendations. This can help you find garages that provide good experiences without wading through pages of internet marketing.

Bumper has a handy search tool that connects you with verified local garages. To get started, enter your vehicle registration on our homepage.

Hopefully, this blog has helped you estimate your alternator repair costs and provided some useful information about the service. Save this page so you can revisit the FAQs and approximate costs before you book your service.

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

Look after your car and your bank balance by splitting the cost of car repairs into monthly instalments with Bumper's interest-free 

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.

How Much Does It Cost To Replace An Alternator? £250 to £750+ (2026)

How Much Does It Cost To Replace An Alternator?

Was kostet der Austausch einer Lichtmaschine?

Cars are complex and can cause large bills out of seemingly nowhere. But you can bypass high costs and avoid legal trouble by regularly inspecting your vehicle and running basic maintenance checks.

We've compiled a complete car maintenance checklist to make your life easier and to help you discover little-known checks your driving instructor may have missed!

These checks will help you meet UK laws, keep your car healthy, and improve your overall driving experience! Ready? Let's get started.

Without further ado, here’s the basic car maintenance checklist all drivers should own. Bookmark this page ASAP so you don’t lose these insider tips.

At a glance: Basic car maintenance checklist

Here’s an overview for those who want the major tips in seconds. 

Now, scroll on for our expert-approved info! 

First on the car maintenance checklist is tyre checks. 

Your tyres are arguably the most safety-critical part of your car, and ensuring they’re in good condition can pay dividends. Tyres are a 

. Finding faults early can help plan out the most cost-effective or convenient replacements, but most drivers don’t remember to do this!

For more info on these points check out our tyre article 

An engine is made with extremely tight tolerances, with metal components effectively rubbing together at great speed. Oil is vital to aid in lubrication and avoid wear and premature failure by checking the: 

Our article on which oil your car needs is 

For obvious reasons, your brakes are essential and are another common failure point on MOTs. Brakes are worn every time you use them. If you drive often, extra checks might be in order.

Many local garages offer free brake checks, stating the thickness level of your pads and discs. Take these readings away and check your car's manual, as some garages may try to sell you something you don't need. 

For more on how your brakes work, our article is 

Engines get hot and need the correct level of good quality coolant to 

. Whilst a coolant flush and replenishment is better left to service time, you can regularly check: 

Split the cost of service and repairs into interest-free monthly repayments at 1000s of trusted service partners. 

Number 5: Ensure air filters are replaced when required

Another car maintenance checklist must-check is your air filters.

As the engine combines outside air sucked in through a filter with petrol or diesel to make power. The incoming air is filtered to stop things such as leaves, dust, insects and other debris from entering the engine.

The filter will stop all these things from entering, but they then clog the filter. This reduces engine performance and can cause various other symptoms, such as bad fuel economy and trouble starting.

We humans need air too, but when we're in our cars' sealed chamber, using 

 or heating, all of the air we breathe passes through the cabin filter.

Often located under the glovebox area, the cabin filter is very similar to the engine's air filter, except it stops us from breathing in nasty debris. One of its significant benefits is filtering out pollen.

So if your heater is blowing strange-smelling air, or you've not had your car serviced for a long time, check the cabin/pollen filter and change it if you don't know when it was last done. 

 You should also ensure the air con functions well. If you can get the right temperature, head to the garage for a professional check.

Not having sufficient screen wash fluid in your car can be grounds for receiving a £100 fine and three points on your licence if caught. So, this is a crucial basic car maintenance checklist point. 

It’s easy to top up and advisable to carry a spare few litres in your car. This way, you'll avoid being caught short — especially in winter.

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