Annabelle Clarke

PR Manager

Annabelle Clarke | Author

Eduardo Rodrigues

Content Writer

Claudia Tuñón

Isobel Coughlan

Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Alastair Shephard

Whilst very small, and hidden away out of sight, the fuel filter is a component present in every petrol or diesel-engined car, which contributes a significant amount to the smooth running and reliability of modern vehicles. 

This article will go into the ins and outs of fuel filters, including how they work, when to change them, how much a replacement fuel filter costs and more. 

It may seem self-explanatory, but it's important to understand the role of fuel filtration in modern cars, which is more vital than ever. 

Once refined from crude oil, the petrol or diesel may well travel thousands of miles to get to your tank. During this time it will travel through ageing pipes, tanks and valves. 

All this results in an end product that is often quite far from perfect, with sediment, dirt and other impurities being present. Due to the traditional usage and production diesel tends to contain more impurities than petrol. 

How much do fuel filters cost to replace?

The average cost to replace a fuel filter is £105, with prices ranging from £70 on older/simpler cars, and up to £150 on premium/luxury brands. 

Split the cost of car repairs into monthly payments at 1000s of garages and dealerships. 

Often fitted in line with the fuel line, between the fuel tank and the fuel system in the engine bay, all fuel flow is routed through the filter, and subsequently through the filter elements. Any pieces of debris or dirt are captured in the filter elements, preventing them from entering the fuel system or engine. 

Almost all fuel filters fall into one of two categories; inline and cartridge. 

 is a plastic or metal unit with tube connectors in each end, a flexible fuel hose is connected to these, with the fuel line passing through the unit from one end to another. 

 use a plastic housing with a removable ‘bowl’, inside the bowl sits the filter element. To replace the filter element, the bowl is unscrewed, the filter replaced and the bowl re-attached. 

There is no inherent benefit to either type, and the type of replacement filter you need to buy will depend entirely on the manufacturer’s design - it’s important to note the two types are not interchangeable - most garages or auto parts stores will be able to search up which part you need.

How often should you replace a fuel filter?

Fuel filters should be replaced every 30,000 miles or two years of use

, but check your car’s manual for more precise information. 

As the fuel filter is not an overly expensive service item, it’s not worth neglecting to change it as part of your bi-yearly service schedule. 

Major services will typically include a fuel filter as standard.

 While the car is on a lift, it would be a relatively simple job for a mechanic to replace it. 

For more information on what services include, check out our 

Over time the elements become fully saturated with debris, and will both allow some contaminants to pass through, as well as restricting fuel flow to the engine, causing starting and running issues. 

Some cars have larger filters that can last longer between changes, but even these will need replacing after they’ve been functioning as intended for a long period of time. 

What happens if you don't change your fuel filter?

Naturally, a good uninhibited supply of fuel is vital to an internal combustion engine, but there are various problems that can indicate you may benefit from replacing your fuel filter: 

Will a new fuel filter improve performance?

Yes, if your fuel filter is very old, there is a good chance a replacement one will improve engine performance. In modern cars, engine fueling is adjusted to take account for the quality and pressure of the fuel supply. A new fuel filter will allow a better fuel flow to the engine, meaning improved performance may be noticed. 

Changing a fuel filter is a relatively simple process. As many inline filters are near the fuel tank, you’ll likely need to get underneath the car - which requires extreme caution and attention. 

If you have the space, tools and expertise to safely jack up and support your vehicle, the only other tools needed are basic hand tools including screwdrivers and pliers to pull off the fuel lines. 

If you are at all unsure about jacking and supporting your vehicle, and your fuel filter is underneath the car, do not attempt to change it yourself, we’d suggest including it as part of your service via one of our 

Split the cost with Bumper at 1000s of approved partners. 

 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.

Fuel Filters: Everything You Need To Know 

As we prepare for a summer of fun and some time away with family and friends, our Summer Travel Series will be looking at top tips for cost-effective travel and how to keep those smaller passengers entertained, as well as our recommended routes and stop-offs along the way. 

One of the most popular holiday destinations in the UK is always Devon and Cornwall, nestled into the South West of England, featuring both wonderful sandy beaches and ample green space. 

If you’re travelling from the South or South East across to the West, one of the most scenic routes you can take is the A303 through Wiltshire, past the famous Stonehenge on your right as go. If you have time, you could plan a stop over here for a leg stretch and to enjoy the mysterious venue on the iconic Amesbury Hills. Booking is recommended and can be done in advance via the 

As well as Stonehenge itself, you’ll see all the ‘Barrows’ which are the ancient burial grounds from 5,000 years ago as you glance across the plains. 

If you’re travelling on the A303, it’s best to select a time of day other than during rush hour! Although it's beautiful and steeped in history, the lanes merge into one and it can get pretty congested during those busy times of day. 

Follow the A303 and join the A30 at Exeter to sweep past Dartmoor National Park in South Devon. Or if you’re heading for the Northern parts of the counties, head to join the A39 and pass through Exmoor National Park and onto those famous narrow Cornish lanes, the deeper you head West! 

As well as pasties, ice creams and many different attractions, Devon and Cornwall are famous for their beautiful beaches. If you’re looking for soft sand and lots of space for all the family – including the 4-legged kind – Daymar Bay in North Cornwall is highly recommended. Tucked away and neighbouring popular surfing beach Polzeith, 

 is stark in contrast with serenely calm waters and is bordered by sand dunes and sand hills. Head here for a lovely day of relaxation on the beach, or if you’re feeling energetic, you could head for a walk up the steep Braey Hill and explore St Enodoc Church within the dunes. 

If you opted for the A303, there are, of course, fewer choices when it comes to service stations than on a motorway. However, there are still some good ones along the way. Solstice services at Amesbury are rated 3 stars according to Motorway Services Online and offer a range of food outlets including a KFC, McDonald’s and a Taco Bell Drive-Thru, a Harvester Bar and Grill and a Toby Carvery. This is as well as those all-important facilities such as Co-op petrol, EV charging points, cash machine and car washes. 

If you’ve driven down the M5 from the north of England, Which? has rated Gloucester Services as their best service station in the UK. It has an incredible customer score of 86%. Apparently, the designer feel, roof carpeted with grass, floor-to-ceiling windows and pond out the front all make for a rather premium visit! There’s a well-stocked farm shop with produce such as baked goods and regional cheeses on offer. Home-cooked meals such as fish and chips and steak and ale pies are also on the menu. Visit 

We’ve already mentioned Stonehenge as a recommended stop-over point, but we do also have some other suggestions. 

With more than 500 sites including historic houses, castles, archaeological and industrial monuments, gardens, parks, and nature reserves across the UK, it’s impossible to have a favourite National Trust place to visit. However, Stourhead is located just off the A303 before Warminster and provides the perfect place for a comfort break, a bite to eat and a leg stretch for all the family, including the 4-legged kind! 

It does have rough terrain, however, so check 

For a slightly longer stop, Wildwood Devon is situated just off the A30 at Exeter and is open from 10am-6pm most days. 

Set in 45 acres of parkland and woodland, there is plenty of space to let off some steam after being sat in the car and plenty to see and do as well. Featuring endangered native species such as the iconic red squirrel, Wildwood is perfect for nature lovers. As well as the wildlife, there is a soft play, an authentic Saxon Village and a beech hedge maze to keep everyone entertained. Check out 

2023 Summer Travel Series – Your Journey to....the South West 

Scotland is famous for its rich culture, gorgeous landscapes, and lively cities. But what about the journey there? If you’re travelling by car from England the journey can seem long. To keep you entertained along the way you may want to opt for a more scenic route. Perhaps through the Yorkshire Dales, Cumbria or maybe even the Northumberland National Park. Whatever your route this summer we’ve got some exciting suggestions for your journey to your next Scottish adventure. 

The first must-stop on your way up North has to be The Bowes Museum in Barnard Castle. With outstanding collections of, art fashion and design, this French-style public museum and gardens is a hidden gem the whole family can enjoy. Craft areas, playgrounds and hunts around the museum are sure to keep the kids entertained for hours. When you’re done, the café has plenty of options including a Sunday roast. Plus, daily homemade tray bakes. 

Located in the heart of the Pennines of North East England, the museum’s home, Barnard Castle, is just off the A66. A short 20 minutes by car from Scotch Corner (A1) and 40 minutes from Penrith (M6). Day tickets are £18.00pp and can be booked in advance on 

Of course, you cannot take a trip through the North of England without making a stop at Hadrian’s Wall. A former frontier of the Roman Empire, work began on the wall in AD122. The construction of the 73-mile wall took 6 years to complete, running from Solway Firth to the aptly named Wallsend. 

Perhaps the most notable of all the destinations along the wall is Houseteads Roman Fort. Set high on a hill next to Hadrian’s Wall, this ancient fortress allows visitors to wander the Roman barrack blocks, a hospital and take a peek at the oldest toilets you’ll probably ever see! 

Tickets are £9.50pp and can be booked on the English Heritage 

If you fancy getting out into nature, why not try the A68 through the Northumberland National Park. The unique and special surroundings of the park are home to some interesting sights. 

Thought to have special healing powers, this huge sandstone boulder was placed in the park by a glacier during the last Ice Age. The stone was originally called the Dragon Stone or Draak’s Stone and is believed to have been used by the druids. 

After William Winter and his sisters robbed and brutally murdered a woman in her home just north of Elsdon, the three criminals were caught and executed. In 1792, William’s body was placed inside an iron cage to act as a warning to other criminals. 

This poignant memorial is dedicated to the airmen who lost their lives over the Cheviot hills during the Second World War. 

After all that sightseeing, you’ll probably fancy a bite to eat. Early on in your journey to Scotland, we have one of the best-rated service stations in the country – Wetherby (A1). Named as 5

 best in the country according to one ranking, this service station has been compared by one reviewer as ‘better than the Sistine Chapel’. 

With a wide range of choices, including Burger King, Costa Coffee and Greggs, you’ll be sure to find something you like. There are also opportunities for a spot of shopping in Marks and Spencer or WH Smith. If you’re looking for a place to stay, the services house a Days Inn Hotel. 

If you’re travelling to the West of Scotland why not try Tebay (M6)? Hailed as one of the UK’s most famous service stations, Tebay is a family-owned site in a scenic part of the M6. The two North and Southbound buildings offer great views of a special part of the country. A duck pond, farm shop and caravan park make the site a cut above your standard motorway service station. 

Cumbrian lamb and native beef raised on their very own farm are served in the service’s kitchen, which uses locally sourced ingredients. 

Once you’re across the border into Scotland, why not get stuck in and sample some Scottish cuisine at 

 in Jedburgh. With Scottish Teas, Nachos smothered in Scottish cheese and, of course, Haggis on flatbread, this quaint café also offers vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. 

If you fancy sitting down for a nice meal at a restaurant – The 

 might be the place to add to your travel plans. Opened in 2015 this independent restaurant creates small seasonal menus that change each month, which often have fresh local ingredients and dishes made by hand. Also on the menu are locally roasted Luckie Coffee and beer from the Tempest Brewery. 

For a family-friendly option, you could try The Gun at Ridsdale. Offering an ever-changing range of choices, their sample menu boasts bangers and mash, 8oz Sirloin or rump steak and cauliflower katsu curry. For the kids, options include fish fingers and cheese and tomato pizza – which are always sure to go down well! 

2023 Summer Travel Series – Your journey to... Scotland 

For 3 days in mid-June, team Bumper came together for our second annual Bumper Retreat. This time around, we all met at the glorious Platja d’Aro in Costa Brava, Spain for all things good for the soul – great company, great food, and some vitamin D in the form of gorgeous sunshine.

With activities planned throughout the week, including a surprise event at the end of the trip, this was a fantastic opportunity for the whole company to come together since it has more than doubled since the inaugural retreat in 2022. More importantly, it allowed for teams who solely work remotely to be together in person and strengthen their working relationships.

After coming together from different corners of the world throughout Sunday, Monday morning brought our twice-yearly in-person Company Update – a chance for each department head to present what they’ve achieved in the previous 6 months, and what they have planned for the following 6 months. 

Going into this, we were told we would be starting with an ice-breaker… No one enjoys a cheesy ice-breaker. Enter Robbie (COO) and Dan (Head of Sales), who put together a super engaging and funny ice-breaking session, including a Rock, Paper, Scissors championship, a round of Bumper Bingo, and a Whodunnit quiz about our co-founders Jack & James. 

The rest of the update featured presentations from all teams across the company, detailing their roadmaps for the year, what they had already achieved, and even some special mentions for colleagues who had gone above and beyond so far this year.

The retreat also was the opportunity for the People team to officially launch our new Guiding Principles – an evolution of the company values that were developed by colleagues. These Guiding Principles are there to provide a framework to colleagues for aligning their actions and behaviours with our company Mission and Vision. They are there to act as a map and compass for all decision-making at Bumper, and will help to define and shape our company culture. Everyone at Bumper is encouraged to think critically about how they align with these Guiding Principles, and how we can use these behaviours to all work The Bumper Way. 

On Monday afternoon, we split into groups and went on some planned team building activities; kayaking in the sea, cycling through the old town, and wine tasting in a valley with a scenic view (they required an equal amount of energy…). The kayaking featured a run in with a school of jellyfish and our CEO being chauffeured around. 

The cycling group got to explore the cool shaded woodland and cobbled medieval streets, all accompanied by Ingo’s Bumper cycling shirt; and the wine tasting group had an insightful tour around the winery and then sat on a shaded terrace and sampled the delicious wines made at Clos D’Agon Bodega.

After some free time to chill by the pool, explore the town, or head to the beach, we then embarked on our surprise activity – a boat trip on a Catamaran! Featuring a DJ and a stop to swim in the Balearic Sea, this was the perfect way to round off a great trip, though maybe not for the unlucky few suffering from seasickness.

So what about next year? We’re already thinking about where we would like to go next, with suggestions flooding in such as a forest retreat, a wellness spa, or just simply more of the same. Whatever we choose, we look forward to hopefully doubling in size again, and having another chance to connect and bond with our colleagues in person.

Sun, Sea & Strategic Planning

The 2023 cost of living crisis presents significant challenges for UK consumers. It is also a time when the automotive aftermarket can deepen its connection with customers, and engender trust by offering innovative payment options that lift the financial pressure a little.

Customers are looking for ways to reduce spending at the moment, and the emergence of new digital payment systems means that franchise dealerships can capture a greater share of the market. 

Furthermore, consumers are keeping hold of their cars to save money, which in addition to disruption of the new car supply chain, is pushing up used car values. People are also postponing vehicle repairs, or choosing cheaper lower-quality options, offering the opportunity for aftersales businesses to service older vehicles likely to require more repairs on a consistent basis. 

Challenges in the automotive aftersales market 2023

The cost of living crisis is heavily influencing car-buying decisions, with people shying away from larger purchases. So significant is this financial crisis that car repairs and servicing are also being postponed due to a lack of cash. 

Although the growth of electric vehicles (EVs) means fewer service visits for drivers, the repairs can be more expensive. Dealers are also likely to want to retain gas-powered vehicles for as long as possible due to servicing revenues. 

As the cost of living continues to soar, the following statistics reveal the severity of the situation for UK consumers: 

So where does this leave the automotive aftermarket in 2023?

How can dealerships capitalise on rising digital trends?

New digital payment technologies provide flexibility, control, and security to customers. Good communication is key, however, if aftermarket businesses are to capitalise on these advancing payment systems. 

Actively promoting open banking facilities and other innovative payment solutions, such as Buy Now, Pay Later, is vital to attract a new demographic, retain existing custom, and consolidate order books for the future. 

Open Banking provides an opportunity for automotive businesses to stand out from the crowd. It enables customers to make vehicle and aftersales purchases directly from their bank account. This removes the involvement of third-party credit card and debit card companies and saves merchants the considerable cost of using their machinery and service. A further key benefit of Open Banking is the speed of payment, with the merchant receiving funds within seconds. 

Buy Now, Pay Later in particular is a significant payment system in this cost-of-living crisis, which dealerships, independent garages, and service centres, can also benefit from. In fact, Buy Now, Pay Later solves a multitude of problems. 

So what are the benefits of new digital payment systems and BNPL for merchants and consumers? 

Benefits of Buy Now, Pay Later for merchants

The global pandemic has accelerated the move towards digital payment in the automotive industry and aftersales sector. In fact, Bumper expects open banking to be the main method of payment used by car dealerships by 2030. 

To find out more about how Bumper's suite of payment options can help you digitalise your aftersales department, head to the partner sign-up page on our website.

Why is Bumper Relevant in 2023?

With many people changing their cars every 2-3 years, getting the best deal on a car can save some serious cash. 

In this article, we’ll discuss the cheapest way to buy a new car and the best places to look. So, what are you waiting for? Start reading now to secure your next deal!

Cheapest way to buy a car - the top 9 strategies 

From cash transactions to buying at the right time, these are the cheapest ways to get a car in the UK. 

If you can afford to, buying a car with cash is always the most cost-effective option. It can avoid the downsides of the above finance options and work out considerably cheaper, but there are still points to consider. 

The finance vs cash decision is something that can take quite a bit of deliberation. Whilst financing can allow you to purchase a more expensive car without needing to outlay a large chunk of cash, it can end up costing significantly more in interest. 

Cars grow older and out of fashion and their prices drop significantly. This might not be the best option if you’re looking for a new, shiny car. However, it's a great way to get a good deal if you’re not fussed about brand names or car age.

Financing a car isn’t always the cheapest option, but it can be if you secure a favourable deal. 

To decide, first familiarise yourself with the different types of finance available including 

Hire Purchase (HP), Personal Contract Purchase (PCP)

, Bank Loans or Personal Contract Hire (PCH). 

Once you’re in the loop, you can start shopping for low-cost car finance. Look for deals with a low overall total cost rather than low monthly payment. To find a low total cost, you need to assess the length of the loan, the amount borrowed, and the interest.

Your dream car might not match your budget, so don’t be fixated on a certain brand or model.

Instead, assess your daily needs, look for cars that tick these practical boxes and explore brands you wouldn’t usually consider. You might be surprised at the prices you find! An open mind is key when looking for cheap cars.

Setting a budget is paramount when car shopping. But don’t be tempted to go slightly above or discard the budget altogether! 

Of course, there are some situations where you’ll need a bit of wiggle room. However, remind yourself why the budget is there. It’s to protect your finances and guide you to a car that’s right for you.

The used car market is one of the best ways to secure an affordable car. Prices for used cars are much lower than their newer counterparts, and they’re often just as high-quality. This is because car prices depreciate over time.

Used cars can be found online and at specialised dealerships. Look for certified pre-owned cars, which come with warranties and can offer extra peace of mind.

Sometimes, buying directly from a private seller can be much cheaper than buying from a dealership. However, you must check the car’s history and get it inspected by a garage before you confirm the sale. This way, you can be sure the car is safe and up to current standards.

Online auto marketplaces are a great way to compare the best deals in one place and make quick comparisons. Autotrader, Kazoo, and eBay Motors are popular websites for UK buyers.

Did you know that dealers sometimes offer discounts and sales at the end of each month or quarter? That’s right. Since they need to meet targets, they often decrease the prices at the last minute.

Similarly, brands sometimes offer year-end sales, a strategy where you can buy last year’s model at a lower price. This happens just before the new models go on sale and it’s a technique dealers use to clear their inventory, offering you significant savings.

Since the internet, there are more ways to buy a car than ever. If you’re patient, willing to take a risk and have the knowledge (or a knowledgeable friend) on car faults, Facebook Marketplace and eBay can yield the best bargains. 

Here are some FAQs about the best places to buy cheap cars:

Is it best to buy a second-hand car privately or from a dealer? 

Generally, buying privately can get you more for your money, but with a private sale (from a non-business), you get no warranty or refunds. Sold as seen means you must find out if anything is wrong with the car before buying. 

Car dealers exist for all price points. The likes of 

 offer a wide range of nearly new cars, all with finance available. 

Car purchases from a business are covered under a specific section of the Consumer Rights Act, meaning if something goes wrong within a specific time period, you can get the garage to fix, replace or refund the car. 

Buying from a dealer typically costs 10-25% more than from private sellers. 

online auction place, eBay has been the place for bargain hunters to pick up all kinds of items since its creation. Buying cars on eBay is certainly not out of the ordinary, with a specific site set up to do so. 

The benefits of buying through eBay, are found if you are patient. Whilst they are less common than they used to be, many people still run auctions on cars starting at very low prices. 

As well as a well-respected auto magazine, Autotrader has a long history of including car adverts, nowadays their website is still one of the most visited by those searching for vehicles to buy.

Adverts tend to be better listed than those on the marketplaces, this is because the adverts cost upwards of £20 list, meaning whether private or business, the seller takes more care over the description and photos. 

Since Facebook launched its marketplace a few years ago it’s become one of the most populated places to buy and sell online. There are some great bargains to be found, as there is so much competition on the platform.

When using these kinds of marketplaces - Gumtree included - it’s advisable to exercise caution as there are often various scam listings, we advise to never send money without seeing the car, even a deposit, and make sure you take care when viewing cars. 

The cheapest way of buying a car - the takeaway

The most economical way to buy a car can change depending on your circumstances. However, the strategies and places on this list should give you plenty of avenues to explore. 

Bookmark this page for your convenience, ensuring you always have the cheapest way to get a new car at your fingertips!

Once you’ve bought your new car, repairs and maintenance are inevitable, with 

, we can help spread the cost into interest-free instalments. Find your nearest 

What is the cheapest way to finance a car?

PCP and HP are the best ways to buy a new car with finance, but which one is better will depend on the interest rate offered. The various finance deals exist to allow those with different circumstances to pick one that best suits their needs.

With HP, as the name suggests, you are paying monthly towards the cost of the car, after an initial deposit. Until all payments have been made, you do not own the car - hence 

 Purchase. When the last payment is made, the car is legally yours.

Unlike PCP, there is not a large payment to be made at the end, but there may be a small transfer of ownership fee.

What is PCP? (Personal Contract Purchase) 

Another common way of getting hold of a new car is PCP, a monthly payment is made (often with a deposit at the start). At the end of the contract period (usually 4-5 years) a 'balloon' payment is required to purchase the car.

Whilst the name suggests the car is purchased, this is not a requirement of the contract, as you can return the car at the end of the term, if you do not wish to or cannot afford to pay the balloon payment.

Personal contract hire is very similar to leasing, in that you can pay a small rental fee to begin the deal, and then a moderate monthly payment for the duration of the contract.

At the end, the car is returned to the financier, and there are no more fees to pay (apart from any damage or mileage outside the terms stipulated).

PCP can be a great option if you want to drive a brand-new car, but don’t want to own it, as the monthly fees are constant during the contract period.

Banks will lend money for large purchases such as cars at reasonably good interest rates, especially when compared to most finance deals like HP or PCP. 

Once the loan is acquired you buy the car outright as if you are paying with cash. This means no finance contract with the dealership/trader. If your credit score allows and you wish to own the car outright, this can be a good way to go. 

Many car loans are ‘secured’ against the car meaning the bank will seize the vehicle as a way to get their money back if you don’t pay. 

Downsides of using a bank loan to buy a car 

If you are buying a brand-new car, you should consider the fact that it’s likely to lose half its value in the first three years. If you are set on a brand new car, and you don’t want to consider leasing or PCP, try to avoid certain makes and models to reduce the hit on deprecation.

The best cars for depreciation are listed on the Money Saving Expert’s website 

, with MINI, Audi and Volkswagen taking the top places.

In some instances, the depreciation over the first three years may be more than the cost of leasing, so make sure to do your research.

What is the most cost-effective way to buy a car?

If you can afford to, the cheapest way to buy a car is with cash, 

as you won't pay any interest on the money you've borrowed. 

If you’d rather not get finance and cannot afford a new car, there are some great second-hand cars available for all budgets.

Most Cost Effective Ways To Buy A Car

Formas más rentables de comprar un coche

Die kostengünstigsten Wege, ein Auto zu kaufen

While using a car regularly causes wear and tear on the engine,

, and other components, leaving a car unused without starting it can cause problems in itself. 

That’s right. Leaving a car unused can result in damage. 

If you stop driving your car for an extended period, you should be aware of the best practices to keep it safe. In this guide, we’ll examine how long you can leave a car without starting it and how to start a car that’s been sitting idle for months. 

What happens to your car if you don't use it? 

Wondering what happens if you don’t drive your car for six months? You’re not the only one. Here’s what to expect after storing a vehicle. 

Leaving a car to sit can cause damage and require the replacement of certain parts, such as: 

Rubber perishes with time and exposure to sunlight, even when not used. This is accelerated by the 

 having low pressure from a slow puncture or not being inflated regularly. 

If the tyres lose all their pressure, the sidewalls can crack, and the tyres develop a ‘flat spot’ in a matter of weeks, rendering the tyre too damaged to be used. 

Hoses are used in various systems in modern cars, including 

. All rubber hoses deteriorate faster when not used, meaning leaks can develop in various places after a few months. 

 and engine mount bushes are made of rubber, these also deteriorate faster when sat in the same position for a long time. 

Various systems like the alarm, immobiliser and even some 

 functions still operate even when the car is not in use. This is known as a parasitic draw and is impossible to avoid completely. Without frequent use of the car, it can deplete the battery. 

How long can you leave a car without starting it? 

You should start your car’s engine at least once a week and let it run for half an hour.

It would be ideal to drive the car for a short journey, too, as this would help keep the battery charged. This is a must if you’re not driving your car every day. 

How to keep the battery healthy in an unused car - three key steps

There are a few things you can do to stop the battery from being damaged from lack of use, with the correct steps a battery can be kept unused for years. 

Current draws from the car's electrical system, and temperature changes both affect the battery's health. Removing the battery from the car and keeping it inside, in a reasonably stable environment keeps the battery from deteriorating. 

Make sure to charge the battery fully before removing it, either by taking the car on a long drive or charging it using a 

Most battery chargers have a trickle charge function. This keeps the battery topped up with a small amount of current constantly, preventing the battery fluids from crystallising and diminishing the battery's capacity. 

If you don't have a garage or the ability to get power to the vehicle where it's parked solar-powered trickle chargers can maintain a battery purely from solar power. 

 and temperatures can affect a car battery’s health. So, store the car in a cool and dry place like a garage. This protects the vehicle against temperature fluctuations and saves you money on damage. 