Annabelle Clarke

PR Manager

Annabelle Clarke | Author

Eduardo Rodrigues

Content Writer

Claudia Tuñón

Isobel Coughlan

Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Alastair Shephard

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.

 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.

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

Ever wondered what you might do in a zombie apocalypse? Run for the hills? Stay and fight? Go to the Winchester for a pint and wait for it all to blow over?

Whatever your plan, one thing is for certain: you'll need some wheels to get you out of there – before the horde approaches!

To help you prepare, we've come up with some ideas of what you might face when you visit the dealer to select a new motor. Good luck!

What would dealerships look like in the 28 Years Later movie?

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.

Practical and Low-Mileage Sporty Hatchbacks – Our Top Picks

Frustrated by car scratches? A simple trick using vinegar and kitchen foil could make them vanish — without a trip to the garage.

There’s nothing more annoying than discovering a scratch or scuff on your car after parking at the supermarket. And with professional repairs often costing upwards of £300, even minor cosmetic damage can feel like a major headache.

But what if the solution is already sitting in your kitchen cupboard?

According to some car repair experts, a simple mix of white vinegar and aluminium foil could be all you need to reduce the appearance of surface-level scratches – without spending a fortune.

How It Works: The £2 Scratch Removal Method

Some say this easy DIY trick can improve the look of light scratches for just a couple of pounds.

First, clean the scratched area with mild soap and water to remove any dirt, rinse with water, then dry with a clean cloth or towel.

Cut a piece of foil large enough to cover the scratched area and dip it into the white vinegar. You’ll want the foil to be soaked but not dripping.

Once prepped, rub the foil gently over the scratch in small, circular motions. The process works because aluminium ions are released into the acidic vinegar, and the foil itself acts as a mild abrasive.

This is enough to buff out a surface-level scratch. But it’s not strong enough to do any damage to the surrounding paintwork, as long as you’re gentle.

While it won’t perform miracles on deep gouges or peeling paint, this low-cost hack can visibly reduce fine surface scratches.

If the scratch is still visible after the first round, you can repeat the process until the desired result is achieved. Just remember to rinse off the area with clean water afterwards to remove any vinegar residue, and then dry with a cloth.

When It’s Time to Call in the Professionals

This trick works best for minor, surface-level blemishes — the kind you might get from trolleys, keys, or brushes with foliage.

With deeper scratches, which have removed several layers of paint, you’ll need to visit a repair shop to get it fixed properly.

However, for small scuffs and marks, this DIY solution can be a surprisingly effective way to improve your car’s appearance, without paying body shop prices.

You probably already have these items at home, so there’s nothing to lose by trying it.

It’s a great way to save money and avoid an unnecessary repair bill.

What You’ll Need for the Scratch Repair Hack

In a cost-of-living crisis, every little saving counts — and this £2 car care hack could help you dodge a costly trip to the garage. It won’t fix everything, but for small cosmetic scratches, it might be the cheapest fix you ever make.

This £2 Vinegar and Foil Hack Could Save You £300 on Common Car Repair

Car air conditioning repairs in the UK typically cost anywhere from £60 for a simple re-gas to £1,500+ for a full system replacement. Most common fixes (e.g. condenser or fan motor replacements) fall between £150 and £500. 

Air con broke? If you’re reading this in the hot summer months, you’ll want to repair your air conditioner as soon as possible – before things get 

uncomfortable. But how much is an air conditioning repair going to cost you? 

Good news: we’ve got you covered. Below you’ll find a simple breakdown of what typical car A/C repairs cost in the UK, what affects those prices, and how you can spread the bill into interest-free chunks with Bumper.

How much does it cost to repair car’s air con in the UK?

Air con repairs in the UK vary depending on your vehicle, garage rates, and how quickly the issue is spotted. 

A car’s AC system is made of multiple parts that work together to keep you cool, including: 

The fan motor pushes cold air through your vents and into the cabin. If it’s not working, you might not feel any cold air coming through.

How do I know if my aircon needs regassing?

If your A/C is blowing warm air, takes ages to cool down, or hasn’t been re-gassed in over two years, it’s probably time. Most systems lose refrigerant slowly over time, so if cooling power’s dropped off, a re-gas is usually the first fix garages try.

It’s a quick job, usually done in under an hour. If your A/C still doesn’t work after that, the garage will look for deeper issues like a leak, faulty compressor, or a damaged condenser.

How do you know if your car’s AC isn't working properly?

Here are some of the most common warning signs that your AC isn’t working properly: 

Hearing strange sounds when you turn on the A/C? That’s usually a red flag that the bearings in the fan motor are worn, there is debris stuck in the vents, or the compressor is struggling to do its job. 

If switching on the air con fills with car with a smell of mould or old socks, moisture is probably trapped in the system, building up bacteria in the evaporator coil. 

One of your air con’s hidden talents is dehumidifying the car. If your windows are still misting up with the system on, that means it’s not pulling moisture from the air properly, pointing to low refrigerant, clogged filters, or other internal faults. 

Split the cost of air con repair costs with Bumper

No matter what’s causing your A/C to underperform, getting it sorted shouldn’t leave you sweating over the cost. With Bumper’s flexible 

, you can fix your air conditioning now and pay later in interest-free monthly instalments. 

It’s fast, fair, and trusted by thousands of UK drivers – so you can stay cool on the road, and even cooler when the bill lands. Check if your garage offers Bumper, or 

How much do car air conditioning repairs cost?

Following a month of outstanding customer feedback, Thurlow Nunn Dereham has been crowned Bumper’s latest Dealership of the Month. 

The Norfolk-based site has used Bumper’s PayLater option to split the cost of customers’ bills into interest-free monthly instalments since 2016. 

This long-standing partnership has resulted in lots of positive customer feedback for the site through Bumper’s Trustpilot integration, which gives advisors real-time access to customer reviews and ratings. 

One Vauxhall driver, Wendy, said, “Decided to split my Thurlow Nunn bill with Bumper to save me moving money from my savings as the loan is interest-free. 

“I found the Bumper site easy to use (I'm not very technical) and it only took a few minutes to complete.” 

With the option to split the cost, drivers can take out more advisory work than before, keeping their vehicles safer for longer. 

Another customer explained, “I have used the Bumper arrangement several times now, and it really allows me to keep the car in a better roadworthy shape than it would be if I had to wait to save up enough financial resource before looking at what needs repairing or servicing.” 

This is also reflected in dealers’ key metrics. A recent case study found a 100% increase in amber work conversion with a proactive approach to Bumper. 

Louise Glister, Service Manager at the site, said, “Customer experience is something we’re constantly evolving and improving here at Thurlow Nunn, and we’re pleased to have found a payment solution that helps us on that journey. 

“A complete payment platform that does more than just process payments, Bumper affords our customers the opportunity to get all their repairs completed regardless of how much they have in their account. Meaning they can get back on the road and back to their daily lives.” 

Well done to Louise, Lydia, Clare, and the whole team at Thurlow Nunn Dereham on your outstanding win! 

Thurlow Nunn Dereham Take Dealership of the Month Crown

When your car’s suspension starts acting up, things can get rough, both literally and financially. Wobbly handling, strange noises, or uneven tyres are all red flags that something’s not right underneath. But how much will a suspension repair cost? Let’s take a closer look at what affects the price and how you can make it all much easier on your wallet with Bumper’s repair finance. 

How much does it cost to fix car suspension?

Suspension repair bills vary depending on your car’s make and model, the extent of the issue, and whether you’re replacing one part or the whole system:

Can you reduce the cost of suspension repairs?

? Let’s talk about some simple ways to save.

First, get different quotes from a few local garages. Prices can differ, so it’s worth comparing to see if you can save even just a little bit. When you’ve found your garage, consider using aftermarket parts instead of official ones – they’re often cheaper and work just as well. 

But most importantly, don’t put off the repair. Catching suspension issues early can prevent bigger (more expensive) problems from snowballing later down the line.

Facing a big suspension repair bill? Bumper lets you split the cost into monthly instalments with their easy interest-free 

A car’s suspension system absorbs shocks from the road, maintains tyre contact with the surface, and keeps a smooth ride by supporting vehicle handling and comfort. 

It’s made up of shock absorbers, coil springs, and other suspension parts that protect your car from the road beneath. A healthy suspension system means safer driving, better vehicle handling, and longer-lasting tyres. Let it wear down, and you could be looking at knock-on damage to your brakes, steering, and more.

What are common suspension issue symptoms?

There are some common symptoms that can make it easy to spot suspension issues, worn-out shock absorbers, and even full suspension failure:

What would be affected by a vehicle with faulty suspension?

A faulty suspension can affect other parts of your car, leading to further damage and expensive repairs. Uneven tyre wear and poor contact with the road are common issues, as the suspension no longer offers good alignment or stability. 

Brake pads and front brake discs may also be affected as they take on extra strain when shocks aren't properly absorbed. If your vehicle has air suspension, problems with the air compressor can become an expensive fix. 

Pay for suspension repairs without the stress

Never pay for your car repair bill in full again. With Bumper's 

 into 3–6 manageable monthly payments with 0% interest and no sneaky fees.

Apply in minutes, either online or at one of thousands of select garages. Get your car fixed and your finances back on track. Join over 500,000 drivers who’ve already chosen Bumper to take the sting out of unexpected repair costs.

How much does suspension repair cost in the UK?

Find all the latest industry news and handiest car repair and service tips on the Bumper Blog. Want to get the Bumper view on something? Let us know and we’ll drop a blog post on it as soon as we can.